E46 328i Vs F30 328i – In Video

In the most recent ‘Trader Dreamer’ I compare the virtues of the brand new 328i to the model 13 years its senior. If you don’t want to take my conclusion alone, perhaps you should watch the two videos after the break. In one you’ll find Clarkson testing the 328i at its launch in 1998 on ‘old’ Top Gear. The other comes from Autocar, with Steve Sutcliffe testing the most recent model. See for yourself how much has changed in this expanse of time.

 The E46 & F30, both can skirt around a rocky outcrop but which would you have?

Trader Dreamer: BMW 328i E46

The embargo on reviews of the F30 BMW 3 series was lifted earlier this week, meaning that we can find out that once again the 3 series is top of its class. Hardly surprising as this has been the case for as long as I can remember. What is perhaps a little surprising is the engine in the new 328i, a name plate that we in Europe haven’t seen for 11 years. Under the bonnet you’ll find no 2.8 litre straight six, nothing of the sort in fact, the car has a 2.0 litre turbocharged four cylinder. The new car will set you back £28,080 before you start ticking boxes, but if you’re not keen on spending that sort of money a car with a lie on its boot lid, then perhaps consider the E46 328i. It’s not lying and it can be had for as little as £2,000.

Photo from aaronmarks