Car talk!

[topspeed]

I stand corrected.

I think the discrepancy lies in the different models available across the pond vs. here in North America. The E90 330i, which indeed produced 260hp, was replaced with the 300hp twin turbo 335i two model years ago. The 328i, which uses the same 3.0L N52 as the 330i, has been detuned to 230hp as the entry level engine. Call Munich if you want to know why they just didn't call the thing a 330i.

As for the M3, as much as I enjoy it, taking care of a M car out of warranty is not for the faint of heart (or depth of wallet) and she hasn't exactly been a "low maintenance" kind of gal. I just replaced the tranny with only 30k on the clock, an $8,000 repair mercifully covered by a warranty with only 10k left on it. It's time to move on.

[audio amateur]

I stand corrected.

I think the discrepancy lies in the different models available across the pond vs. here in North America. The E90 330i, which indeed produced 260hp, was replaced with the 300hp twin turbo 335i two model years ago. The 328i, which uses the same 3.0L N52 as the 330i, has been detuned to 230hp as the entry level engine. Call Munich if you want to know why they just didn't call the thing a 330i.

As for the M3, as much as I enjoy it, taking care of a M car out of warranty is not for the faint of heart (or depth of wallet) and she hasn't exactly been a "low maintenance" kind of gal. I just replaced the tranny with only 30k on the clock, an $8,000 repair mercifully covered by a warranty with only 10k left on it. It's time to move on.

You seem well informed on the subject. What I don't gather though is why they call the twin turbo a 335 when it remains a 3.0L.
The M3 is simply my dream car, that's why i'm saying this, obviously whatever choice you make will be well informed and a fine buy, I have no doubt. I have to say it does suck to hear that it has had these problems.

Here's a vid for you, which, if anything, may change your mind (I know you won't like the music). Needless to say I've watched it several times:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2pockYpND0Y

Both M3's, especially starting 3:49 are deadly... The G35 has a nice body kit to it. Enjoy!
ps: what was the 8 grand repair on?