01 · Überblick
The sensible top model
Below the M3, the 330i was the top of the model line: the M54B30 with three litres, 231 PS and a refinement that shaped the reputation of the BMW straight-six. As the 330i it came as Sedan and Touring, as the 330Ci as Coupé and Convertible.
Compared to the M3 it lacks the high-rev thrill — but in return it offers modest running costs, freedom of choice between transmission and body style, and optional all-wheel drive (330xi). Today the 330i is the insider tip of the model line: the M3 driving feel in mild form, at a fraction of the price.
02 · Historie
Einordnung
- 2000 The 330i replaces the 328i in June — three litres of displacement, 231 PS, plus the 330xi with all-wheel drive and the 330d with diesel.
- 2003 Facelift for Coupé and Convertible — Sedan and Touring had already been revised in 2001.
- 2005 The Sedan hands over to the E90 330i with magnesium crankcase — Coupé and Convertible continue as the 330Ci until 2006.
03 · Karosserievarianten
Karosserievarianten
Sedan and Touring (330i)
The everyday body styles — the Touring as the rarer and today more sought-after variant.
Coupé and Convertible (330Ci)
Distinct bodywork from the A-pillar back; the Ci Coupé is the basis for the Clubsport special edition.
04 · Motoren
M54B30 geprüft
The last representative of the classic M5x straight-six with double VANOS. Known for its robustness; typical age-related issues are the crankcase ventilation and VANOS seals.
Technische Daten anzeigen
| Hubraum | 2.979 cm³ |
| Leistung | 231 PS (170 kW) at 5,900/min |
| Drehmoment | 300 Nm at 3,500/min |
| Bauart | R6, naturally aspirated, double VANOS |
Wikipedia DE, BMW E46
05 · Technik
Technik
Transmission & Drivetrain
Clubsport-Paket
06 · Kaufberatung
Buying advice in brief
Mechanically unproblematic. Check: crankcase ventilation, cooling system, rear axle mounts (as with the M3), and rust on wheel arches of later model years.
07 · Die Konkurrenz
Die Konkurrenz
Audi A4 3.0 (B6)
Also a naturally aspirated six-cylinder, but designed with a more front-heavy layout.
Mercedes C 320 (W203)
Comfort-oriented V6 rival.
08 · Quellen