3-Series (E46, E90)Chat relating to the BMW 3-Series from 1999 to Current. Models include: BMW 316i, BMW 318i, BMW 318Ci, BMW 320i, BMW 323i, BMW 325i, BMW 330i, BMW 328 Ci, BMW 328i, BMW 325i/xi, BMW 330Ci, BMW 320d, BMW 330d, BMW 335d.
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That's Exhibit "A" for why I went ahead and took the plunge on my 2004 330 CiC. After watching the beautiful Seven and Five get turned into design-class monstrosities, I was sure that a colossal screw-up of the Three was not far behind. Although I must admit that the new Three is actually a pretty good looking car, I think the present version is much better. I have only had my car for a week, and I'm still in the "go out in the garage and stare at it" phase.
Yays:
- Interior looks more refined
- FINALLY, they brought back dual-climate control
- Profile looks sleek and nice
Nays:
- NOOOOOOOO!!!! iDrive has finally infected the 3-series
- Rear tail-lights look like a '97 Maxima
- Front lights look like they were on the way to morphing to the Z4/6-series design, but stopped mid-way
I dunno, it took a bit for me to adjust to the E46...Even though I own an E46 M3, I still get slight chills and mentally picture an E36 when I hear "M3." I'm sure the E90 will have a similar acceptance curve, especially since they toned down the radical Bangle-esque influence.
Love the interior, it's the same, yet different. The dials resemble the new 7 series and even a bit of the VW Phaeton. That computer I'm sure is a pricy option.
The exterior... ugh. I really don't like it. It seems as though EVERY car manufacturer is comming out with the oblique planed body pannels. Much like acuras and hondas and all the other freakin models (even FORD!) Com'on, the E46 design was sleek.. its sexy. The hood looks like you could fit a V10 in there... but oops, there's only a six, damn. Maybe it's just me, but it's too much of a change too soon. From the E36 to the E46 they rearraged the placements of some interior components and pretty much rounded out the vehcile and (from the way it looks) widened it's stance, but now it looks more like a modified acura....IMO.
I hope I don't step on any toes, I know it's all in someone's opinion and that things must change, but still.... I guess I need time to 'grow' with it.
Dough
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<span style='color:black'>1999 BMW 328i Jet Black --Total Dinan Points: 5 --
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