Re: SBJ-E46 323

[andrew.j.thomas@xxxxxx]

Bob (kedsrwgs@domain.elided) asks:

> My wife is considering purchasing a 1999 E46 323.  She has owned a 328
> IC.  However, living in a city condo, she does not need the additional
> power.  Would someone please be kind enough to advise us of the pros and
> cons of the 328 vs. 323 and any info on the GM automatic transmission
> and any other opinions on the E46 would be appreciated.
Bob,

word on the street is that the 323 has a slightly sweeter engine than the
328, but of course doesn't have the same grunt. If you really don't need
the power, and don't see the point in spending the extra cash even if you
are able to afford it, go for it.

As for the auto gearbox, I was led to believe that US auto E46s will have
the same ZF 5-speed (5HP-18) transmission as the Euro cars, not the
venerable GM four-speed auto used in the E36. With other manufacturers
offering 5-speed autos nowadays, I think it's more than likely. (Note to
E39 fans: whether this means the E39 will now be offered with the ZF
5-speeder along with the uprated, double-VANOS in-line sixes, I don't
know).

The ZF 5-speed auto is not as fragile as the old ZF 4-speeder from the
Eighties, which has many detractors. The GM THM-R1 auto is a good 'box,
very strong (though overrated for use in the four-cylinder cars IMHO) and
smooth, but not the fastest-reacting 'box in the world, with a tall first
and a rather large gap between third and fourth (although the sixes' torque
will hide this to some extent).

The E46 is regarded as softer than the E36, with less of a sporting focus.
Sports suspension and fat wheels will go some way towards sharpening it up,
but if you use the car only for the street and highway, stick with the
standard suspension.

Hope this helps

Andrew T
'95 318is.

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