323Ci vs 328Ci

[Michael Reilly <mreilly@xxxxxxx>]

I recently testdrove a 2000 BMW 323Ci (Automatic) and coming from a 
1995 Mazda MX-6 4 cylinder, I guess I expected a little more "get up 
and go." Everything else about the car was wonderful, but it seemed 
to lack a little pep.

The sales guy said that with a 5 speed, the 323 was really good, but 
for the automatic I might want to look at the 328 which would feel 
more peppy. But he said rather than spend the $4,000 for the 328, I 
might be able to do as well with a free-flow air filter and 
performance upgrade chip.

I am wondering what others think of this?

     - Is it worth it to go for the 328Ci?

     - Will additions like a free-flow air filter
       and performance upgrade chip make a big difference?

     - Are there other things I could do for either models performance
       that wouldn't require a machine shop and engineering degree?

Thanks.

Michael

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