help with 325i

[horatiub]

Hey guys! I'm in a dilema, and to be honest from the beginning, I'm not really an expert in cars, just so you know not to laugh at me....to hard)

so here is the deal: I'm looking to purchase a '04 325i, and I just wanna find out what options do I have in terms of transmission, I mean what are the differences between steptronic, or SMG or manual or automatic, can you explain in detail a little bit?

also, second question: are the seats in the sport package more comfortable than the regular seats? I have back problems so I wanna make sure I'm getting the most comfortable seats.

also, is the sport package an useful option? Is it worth getting it with the premium package?


Thank u so much guys and sorry if I sound a little unexperienced.

[StephenA]

I've got a 325Ci with Premium and Sport Package. The seats are very nice and ride well. I'd add the lumbar support though for back issues.

I have the Automatic with Steptronic. I've always hated automatics but that's all they had and my wife wanted the car NOW. I"ve been impressed with the way it shifts in the different modes. Sport mode works pretty good and you don't have to shift it.

Get both packages if you can. I love the tires on the sport package. I've tried to make the car slide around a corner but havn't done so yet. I also like the white lights. Get the Xenon Headlights too.

[white 330ci]

the steptronic is just an automatic, that has some shifting function.

the smg is a clutchless manual, where you shift either on the gearshift or on paddles behind the steering wheel, it is supposed to be very fast.

the manual is just a std transmission i think it is 6 speed now.

you should get the sport package, it has a better suspension.

i really like my heated seats, they might feel good on you back.

i also like the xenon headlights, they make the road a lot clearer

[jefft325i]

Don't get the SMG that's now available for 2004 in the 325 and 330 mixed up with the SMG II available on the M3 - they're different. The SMG II shifts faster than the version on the standard 3 series. Regarding the manual transmission for 2004, the 325 comes with a 5 speed, you have to get the 330 to get the 6 speed manual.

Choosing a transmission type is totally subjective - it's what fits you. I personally like a manual (with a clutch) - I wouldn't have it any other way. With a manual you'll get more performance, more driving satisfaction, and save $

1 word of advice - get the Sport Package! If you can only get one package, get it over the premium package. Sports package offers the 12 way power sport seats (premium package seats are 8 way) which offer more side bolstering and a little extender that pops out for those with longer legs, multi-function sport steering wheel, 17 inch wheels instead of 16, and a sport suspension (different springs, etc.). The car sits marginally lower and looks 10x better with the larger wheels. If you plan on modifying it, perhaps the sport package wouldn't be worth it for you. However, many people that plan on new wheels and suspension opt for the Sport Package anyway, just for the seats.

The premium package offers some nice features (leather and moonroof), but I personally don't like the wood grain interior trim that comes with it, and have no use for the auto dimming rear-view mirror.

As everybody else said, get the xenon headlights. You'll love the look, the way it lights up the road, and your car will be much easier to sell when that day comes if it has xenons (and the sport package).