Hi guys im planing to buy an e46 and i need your help. What would you guys suggest 325i or 318i from 2001 and newer which one is more reliable im leaning towards the 325i because it's more powerful and as far as i know 6 cylinder engine is smoother then the 4 cylinder in 318i. But 318i a bit cheaper then the 325i. What should i go for ?
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Need your help guys e46 325i or 318i ?
- Thread starter Ajayy
- Start date
A.C.SCHNITZER
Member
6 pots no doubt about it
Donovan2412
///Member
Definitely 325.
I did the same thing by buying a 4 cylinder. Few months I already wanted to sell it for a 6.
I did the same thing by buying a 4 cylinder. Few months I already wanted to sell it for a 6.
While I agree with everyone on the 6cyl over the 4cyl engine car, the truth is, you should look at the one that was best looked after. You can buy a 325 that has been dragged through someones behind, and it will cost you a lot in the long run, where a well looked after 4cyl will be much better off.
So IMHO, first look at the history of each vehicle.
But if all things on both are equal except the slightly higher price, then most definitely go for the 325.
So IMHO, first look at the history of each vehicle.
But if all things on both are equal except the slightly higher price, then most definitely go for the 325.
Great advice.Tinuva said:
To add to this, leave the 318i out completely. If the current 325i you looking at seems to be a lemon, looks for another one until you find a decent one, there should be a few for sale if you look hard enough:thumbs:
I know guys who complained about the 318i being heavy on fuel, remember same weight yet under-powered engine.
If you stick to manual, the 325i can return goof consumption depending on driving style.
Ashiel
Member
I have a 318i (N46) love the car, but definitely shop around for the 325i, more fun, sounds better, probably around the same fuel consumption (Mine is 8.1 mixed driving).
That said, i looked after my car religiously and feel like it has served me really well. Got 490K on the clock and still drive it long distance at least once a month without the fear of it might not take me to where i am going.
That said, i looked after my car religiously and feel like it has served me really well. Got 490K on the clock and still drive it long distance at least once a month without the fear of it might not take me to where i am going.
VinceM
Well-known member
I think it depends on what you want to achieve, a daily 6 pot doesn't come cheap, thus maybe a 4 cyl might be better for the purposes of work and back,
As for 325i, if fuel consumption is not an issue, why not a 330i whilst you at it? Power levels in cars have changed over the years, I'd say get a 170kw motor with adequate torque (300nm) and have peace of mind, I'm yet to find a 330i owner with buyers remorse.
I have a 325ci - extremely fun car to drive, puts a smile on my face, but sometimes I just feel I would do with that extra bit of power. 325s have high reviving motors.....and one major con for me is the 5 speed gearbox, you can actually feel the car needs a 6 gear.
As for 325i, if fuel consumption is not an issue, why not a 330i whilst you at it? Power levels in cars have changed over the years, I'd say get a 170kw motor with adequate torque (300nm) and have peace of mind, I'm yet to find a 330i owner with buyers remorse.
I have a 325ci - extremely fun car to drive, puts a smile on my face, but sometimes I just feel I would do with that extra bit of power. 325s have high reviving motors.....and one major con for me is the 5 speed gearbox, you can actually feel the car needs a 6 gear.
Ajayy said:
This is best E46 I've ever seen for sale. It's a 325i with only 98 000 km
https://www.gumtree.co.za/a-cars-ba...-bmw-3-series-sedan/1002763376290910800715709
This 320i with 127 000 km also looks excellent. 2nd best I've ever seen for sale.
https://www.bmwfanatics.co.za/showthread.php?tid=87923
I bought my 318i 2002 at the end of August after 3 months of searching
I love it, especially on highways. It drives as smooth as silk and really gives me Sheer Driving Pleasure.
I would definitely recommend it but most people agree that the 325i and 330i have the best engines. I've heard this many times.
It has enough power for me and I get on average about 10L/100km fuel consumption
A good, low mileage 6 cylinder E46 is very very hard to find though
318i's are easy to find unless you want low mileage
Ajayy said:
There's some very good advice in this thread I started while I was searching for my E46
https://www.bmwfanatics.co.za/showthread.php?tid=87242
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