2002 BMW 330i e46

Road Test: 2002 BMW 330i (e46)
Available in saloon, convertible, coupe and estate, around 4 million e46 BMW's were made between 1998 and 2006. A whole range of engines and models were available from the 104bhp right up to the 355bhp M3 CSL.
This weeks road test focuses on the 3-litre 330i, the fastest e46 not to wear an M-badge...
Looks:
To the untrained eye, its hard to tell the 330i apart from the many 320d's that frequent our motorways every day. Not necessarily a bad thing, with the performance on offer some would class this as a sleeper.
Our feature car is standard in appearance except for its optional alloys that have been powder coated in a darker grey.
Driving:
Like most 6 cylinder BM's, when cruising the soundtrack can only be described as smooth. Squeeze the loud pedal and you're greeted with a lovely hollow roar.
This car has the much desired 5-speed manual box, making it more of a drivers car opposed to a mile-muncher. Its a shame that the same can't be said for the light steering, apparently this can be fixed though by fitting the older style power steering pump.
Stats:
Power: 231bhp
Weight: 1405kg
0-60: 6.3 secs
Top Speed: 155mph (Limited)
Costs:
This car cost £3,250 a few months back.
E46 330 prices generally range between £2,500 and £7,000.
Mixed driving will average a return of 29mpg, 35+mpg is possible of a run.
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/ 12grandauto