Doomsdaya said:
I apologize for reviving this old thread but im also considering a e46 330i in the near future :fencelook:
I wanted to know is there anyone who owned/drove both the face lift and pre-face lift 330i but in manual.
Cosmetically the face lift is better but performance wise ? I read the 5 speed box of the pre face lift was much quicker then the 6 speed
And is there a big difference in fuel consumption with mixed driving ?
These are really good cars! Any straight 6 cylinder e46 is a good buy! The 330i is the cream of the crop! Fuel consumption on urban roads is high at around 13L to 14L/100kms, but on the freeway, you can average around 8.5L to 9L/100kms. Its also the last 3 series to have a spare wheel and you don't need to spend extra cash on run-flats. Another thing to consider is that these double vanos 3 litre straight six engines were naturally aspirated, so no need to replace turbos. Either manual or auto is great, just check if you need to replace the prop shaft on the manual. They usually develop a bit of play after 180000kms.
These are very good cars. I know of a Sea Green 1999 320i E46 doing above 800000kms. Its only recently gone in for engine repairs.
Common things that usually need replacing are:
- Prop Shaft Universal Joints
- Window Regulators
- Water Expansion Tank
- Water Pump
- Radiator
- Thermostat Housing
- Aircon Compressor
- Final Stage Resistor of Hedgehog
- Windscreen Water Reservoir Pump
- Tappet Cover Gasket
- Temperature Sensor O-Ring
- Lower Control Arm Bushes
- Trail Arm Bushes
- Wheel Bearings
- Shocks
- Oil Catch Nut
These are just some of things I had to replace on my E46.
In my opinion, if the mileage is lower than 200000kms its worth getting, but just make sure you got a little cash to replace a few things here and there.
The e46 330i makes a great family car as well as the weekend toy! There's nothing like that 3 litre straight six tone.