325xi vs 325

[bk325]

I am interested in purchasing a bmw but can't decide between the 325xi or 325. I live in montreal and will be doing considerable highway driving and given our not so pleasant winters would the all wheel drive model be better.

Looking forward to hearing what 325 drivers say about driving in winter conditions compared to the all wheel drive 325 drivers....Need some input on the matter.

[Gulelin]

Well, the AWD drive is only helpful when cornering and accelerating, so if your highway cruising my advise would be to buy a 325i and slap some snow tires on it. I love my 330xi, but the AWD only helps in some situations.

[kastegir]

I'm in Salt Lake City, where we get plenty of snow as well. After spending last winter here with my Quattro-equipped Audi, I'm planning to buy a 330xi, probably next week. They're holding one for me with a depsoit, I just need to go back to drive it one more time with the wife.

In my experience, the AWD will help with cornering, handling and getting up and down hills easily.

[aabimmer]

I'm on my second 325xiT lease (2004 model now). Absolutely love it. I do lots of freeway driving in Michigan. On/off ramps, quick hazard misses, and lane-changing on asphalt and concrete all in snow and slush is no problem for the xiT.