E46 Coupe ?'s (performance/maint. /trim Questions)

[CircuitDriver]

Hi all,
Im interested in the E46 coupes for a daily driver along with a weekend road racer. I used to drive an Integra Type R and currently own a Honda S2000. I've driven the E36 M3 for 6 months when i lived out in Southern California but the E46 has attracted me more than the older chassis.

Im basically in the market for a new 3 series for a multi purpose Daily driver/ weekend road racer car.

Im confused about the trims and packages that are available for the 3 series coupes.
Which 3 series serves a better tuning block?
I understand that the 3.0 engine makes more useful torque but since the displacement is higher, i'd assume that the rev range was limited.

The 2.8 motor is said to make more torque through the powerband than the 2.5 but has the same rev-ability?

I wanted to know about actual engine modifications (internals) and the options that were around. Any information is greatly appreciated.

[jefft325i]

Lots of different packages are available - cold weather package, premium package, sport package, performance package on newer 330's, and many other options are available as well. Nothing's standard on a BMW! That's pretty high level - is there a more specific package your looking for?

Yes, the 2.8 liter has rated at 193 HP/206 ft/lbs vs 184/175 in the 2.5 liter (those are 325 #'s - the 2.5 liter in the 323 is rated at 170/181). HP is similar, but torque goes way up. Worth nothing, the 1999 and 2000 cars (323 & 328) have manual throttle cables, while the 2001 + models (325 & 330) have drive by wire. 2 totally different feels.....

If you looking for a car to modify, it isn't easy or cheap in a E46.