Help Me Understand The Difference!!!

[stevestarr]

I am originally a big honda fanatic, but I think its time for me to switch over to the better side. I drove an Integra GSR before, but I am looking into a BMW, which I know NOTHING about. I want a newer body 94+, can anyone explain to me the difference between all the models. I know a 318i has a I4, and thats about it. I need to know the difference between the 323ci, 323i, 323iT, 323iS, 323iC, 325, 325i, 328, 328i, ETC, There are tons of differences, and I am looking to buy soon, and I want to make the most informed decision possible, on handling vs speed, etc. Other then the M3 what is the fastest 3 series out there, and how much horsepower, etc. THANK YOU TO ANYONE WHO CAN HELP

[Kevin325i]

323= A 2.5L OBD II engine *less power* (318 replacement as base model 3 series)
it = hatch
is= coupe
ic= convertible
325= A 2.5L OBDI engine
i= 4 door sedan
328= 2.8L OBD II (was the replacement for the 325 when the obd II changeover hit in 96)

328 5 speed with an OBD I conversion would be an awesome car.

These are all I-6 engines.

[bitcore]

Woohoo, I got the s$*#iest of the list!! .. cept it's a coupe

[Deloriant]

OMG, what is a FAQ?

[El Presidente]

Thank you, D.

Please use the search feature.

[stevestarr]

Originally posted by Kevin325i@Sep 26 2004, 05:05 PM
323= A 2.5L OBD II engine *less power* (318 replacement as base model 3 series)
it = hatch
is= coupe
ic= convertible
325= A 2.5L OBDI engine
i= 4 door sedan
328= 2.8L OBD II (was the replacement for the 325 when the obd II changeover hit in 96)

328 5 speed with an OBD I conversion would be an awesome car.

These are all I-6 engines.

[snapback]199560[/snapback]

First of all, thank you for that, second of all, out of that bunch which would be the fastest? Also, how much faster would an M3 be compared to the fastest of that group. Is it better to have a 95 rather then a 96 due to the ECU? Thanks, Steve

[Kevin325i]

328 with OBD I conversion will beat an auto M3 and a 95 M3, it would be quite close to a 5 speed 96 + M3.

If you want speed, you've chosen the wrong marque.

[t-im]

Cabriolet's are ci, not ic

[Kevin325i]

ci is the new designation for coupe used by the e46s. The e36 convertible is ic.

[bitcore]

If your looking for 1 diminsional G forces, stick with the japs or american muscle.

If you love 3 diminsional g-forces, go BMW. They arn't as "fast" as everything else, but with some work (and a lot of money for that work) you can be really fast as well (provided the base engine is good enough, don't go getting a 318 and expect to supercharge it to 500 HP, not gonna happen)

In other words, if you love cars and love to drive them, get an M - thats the car for you.

[bigred318]

yeah these cars are great, but not like everyone thinks, also the m3 can be fast in a straight line not for it, i mean sure its still nice to go fast in a line which it can but take it in the corners and oh man you will be in heaven, or something like it

David