Hi, new and already asking ;)

[dannyb]

Hi, I am new to this forum, I've been reading around about bmws and checking out many threads on this forum. My problem, I am about to buy my first bmw, im 19 years old and these are my options.
2000-2002 bmw 3 series ranging 12 to 16k
In this range you get mostly 323 and 325 and some 328. I was wondering if you could help me make my choice by making a comparing the differences.

Also, what is the difference with sport pkg and premium pkg?

thank you

[Teh Prof]

323/325/328: difference will mainly be in the power of the engine rather than the trim. As a general rule, the bigger the last two numbers, the bigger the engine.

A sport package usually includes uprated suspension components, maybe a tad more horsepower depending on the model, and often a manual transmission.

A premium package outfits the interior of the car with extra luxuries like heated and more fully adjustable seats.

[dannyb]

Sport seats included in the sport package? I was told they are very expensive to get afterwards.

[drz]

In the US, the sports package entails different alloy wheels (usually bigger, and wrapped in performance rubber), sports seats, sport-tuned suspension, and sometimes black-out trim instead of chrome around the side windows. I imagine things would be about the same in Canada

The following link should give you some general info on the engine specifications, etc.:
1999-2005 BMW 3-Series Prices and Review

[dannyb]

Ive seen many 323 with 2.5L engine, is this normal? I thought 323 had a 2.3, 325 had 2.5 and 328 2.8...

[bimmerguy82]

hey, as a general rule that is true. the only exception i believe is the 323, which does have a 2.5L motor but makes less hp.

[dannyb]

Whats the difference in the engine? What causes the gain in HP for the 325?

This will sound funny but, I called for insurance and the insurance for the 328 is less then the 325. Anyone have an idea as to why?

[Teh Prof]

Originally Posted by dannyb

Whats the difference in the engine? What causes the gain in HP for the 325?

This will sound funny but, I called for insurance and the insurance for the 328 is less then the 325. Anyone have an idea as to why?

The gain in hp between the 323 and 325 has to do with different engine parts and software.

No idea on the insurance question.

[SpeedInfusion]

as far as i know, the differences between the 325 and 323 are, software,intake manifold,exhasut manifold, exhasut....

[drz]

The 325 is newer. That is very likely why the insurance is higher.