@Zombie Head Likely because of volume. Lots more E46's were sold than E36's, and as such more people are enjoying them. Not to mention the E36's subframe issues were worse than the E46 (the 323 and 328 E46's were particularly bad though), so that's definitely kept more on the road in general.
I have an 02 with 144k miles and aside from a couple of minor bodywork issues which I'm midway through sorting it's a perfect car. Underneath she's perfect.
@@l34052 Good to hear that! I keep mine waxed, seats conditioned, under car port plus often covered and folks who don't know BMs are surprised it's going on 20. Few minor 'doored' dings and scratches. (however I am about to put it in the air to replace all the rubber suspension parts, replace valve cover gasket, fix oil leak in front and probably replace all the external coolant system components, some $1200 in parts alone) It's not a Toyota but it's fun to drive unlike a Toy.
@@K4R3N Great assumption but wrong. The internals to The Bean were fabricated in a shop near mine at the time, ('farther' N. California) of course it's not just a shell but has a complex SS frame inside plus a footing steel frame under and it's my fave modern piece. 'Optically perfect' is no easy task every weld distorts things. NO Salt here and essentially zero rust. I took such things into account purchasing my E92 M3 a yr.ago...and one previous owner instead of 4 or 5 'renters'. (330 demoted to around town, M3 for weekends n road trips)
@@Mrbfgray come up to Chicago this summer and let's check out the bean together! And give our german cars (Audi for me) a run on beautiful lake shore drive.
the e46 is cheap to fix. trust me i bought a 800$ beater 325i. so far i have fixed it with ducktape,electrical tape. one of the angeleyes where put on wrong so it burned trough all the wires. i fixed it by just coneccting the wires back togheter using hose clamps. yes i had nothing beter laying around so it had to be hose clamps to clamp them togheter. all the cracked hoses and plastic tubes and shit that usualy go wrong can allso be ducktaped togheter. the crank case bleader hose i fixed with electricaltape. it had a cloged fuel filter so i took it off and flushed it first with water (in oposite flow to wash out the shit) then with petrol till it was all clear then put it back on. bmws can be cheap to own... or well they are cheap aslong as we don't factor in fuel cost
In the US maybe. I'm always surprised to hear that e46 is so expensive to maintain. In europe parts cost nothing. Labour is cheap or costs nothing if you do it yourself. (for example i paid $10 for a rear wiper motor, barely used clutch with flywheel is like a 100$, manual trans is about a 100$, 3l 135kw bare diesel engine is 50-100 dollars, e46 doors are $15, the hood is $20, diesel turbo manifold $40 dollars, turbo $150 etc.)
it depends. its a gamble like anything else. my 330ci in 7 years only has had 1 issue. drivers side acctuator went, other than that its been a dream. the modding potential for these is immense. i consider them underrated.
@@danielzychniewicz2633lol that's the only issue with my 2000 e46. but its the actuator in the front passenger door. other than that the cars been very reliable. and replacing the accuator is a DIY job anyway.
@@sergeysmelnik the boxyness of the e36 makes it seem more old. as much as i love a e36 m3 i will always know it was an old car just by its appearance.
Bought my teenage daughter a used 2002 BMW 330ci as her first car, in a 5MT. It survived three years with her, and is still running strong, with 174,000 miles!! It is still a blast to drive, still looks cool and modern, handles well...most undervalued car!!
Up to downshift and down to upshift is actually more convenient than the other way round for sporty driving. Most sequential gearboxes for rallying do this aswell.
Couldn’t be more wrong. Almost all racing cars with sequential use the pull back to up shift and push forwards to down. Opposite of this. Mainly because when your accelerating hard the g forces push you into your seat and it’s easier to pullback. And under hard braking it’s easier to push it forwards. Only real complaint about my e46 is that.
The 330Ci is a very good car if you want a RWD driver's car. Add an LSD, some mild suspension upgrades and make sure the cooling system is maintained and you have a good daily you can do lots of fun skids in. Don't buy an automatic--it ruins the whole reason you are going through the agony of old BMW ownership.
To be honest, I loved my auto bimmers. They've done pretty well with a trans chip etc. Don't get me wrong I prefer the manual as well but it just seems like it's a trend to hate on the autos.
I feel you, had similar issues with my 02 E46 325i sedan with 94k. It's worth fixing compared to a rust bucket. I'm actually amazed how the paint is still looking fresh, the door locks work pretty well and everything is in a good shape after three owners. Me and my fathers friend got it running like new after a few oil changes, new vacuum lines, a disa valve, valve cover gasket, front struts, control arm bushings in the front, tires, brake pads and some service.
I agree, E46 has a lot going for it. Excellent driving dynamics, lots of parts availability, good gas mileage, stylish interior. The coupe version is sexy. Former E39 owner now X3 E82 awd
@@kent570253 I must be the luckiest guy here, 142k miles, 15 yr.s ownership, 2001 330CI with mild Dinan, been cheap and reliable so far. Instead of dreading the trip in a Toyota you might look forward to the drive. But I am planning a preemptive 'overhaul' that I sure wouldn't want to pay someone else to do, be up in the air for a few weeks of much of my spare time plus up to $1.5k in parts, it's near 20 yr.s old...rubber suspension parts, control arms, plastic coolant parts, radiator, a couple engine gaskets, vanos, so YEAH it's not Toyota cheap/reliable, more maintenance required....but it might be worth it if you value a proper balanced capable REAR DRIVE car that handles great even at 135mph in high cross winds and rain and still good acceleration at that spd. (not that you'd wanna try that except out in Nevada maybe as I've done) 50/50 wt. distribution matters!...along with proper suspension, brakes, steering, handling....you can confidently hammer the binders if someone cuts you off on the freeway and/or swerve at the same time without fuss, or downshift and get away.
Bo McGillacutty I’m 100 % with you on that. As a matter of fact I own 3 beemers. E46, E90 and leasing a F22. They are all great cars. I just know they are expensive because I work for BMW and see everything that goes wrong with them. These cars can be cheap if you neglect oil leaks and put crappy parts on them, but if you gof quality, its going to be expensive. Do I think it is worth it? Totally!!!
@@Mrbfgray i have a 2003 325ci with 100k miles bought it with 94k miles and the coolant reservoir has cracked the front right control arm failed the oil pan gasket is leaking smh just bought a mercedes benz and haven't looked back repairs are way easier and parts fail less my e46 hasn't moved in 8months LMAO
Got an 2004 330ci with every option possible and 228K on the clock for only 3200$ I love her so much... I knew I wanted a well maintained high mileage car and after looking for a few months I finally found one. And after just about a year and a half a ownership, I’ve put less than 1K into and most of it was basic maintenance. Definitely recommend an E46 if you want to work on your car a bit and have one the best chassis to date: BMW for life, hopefully I can get my 335i soon too :P
I just spent.$9900, 2003330ic convert. 73000 miles. Florida car its entire life.Good maintenance. Garage queen?? Looks to be about spotless. Im 68, have had over 100 cars..I simply always loved the style and dimensions of the e46 series. This may be the last sportscar I own. And @$10k.. I concider it..money well spent. Ah what price we pay for " ohshits!..and grins" The e46 is sure to be an appreciating classic.
Oh God. I loved my E46 M3. I thought I knew what a car was. I didn't before the m3. Handing. Absolutely perfect. Engine sound, phenomenal. SMG? Anyone who doesn't like the m3 with SMG that isn't manual bias is crazy! Literally a Ferrari transmission and for a transmission that old it was nearly if not faster than some Dual clutch transmissions. SMG is literally a manual without a clutch. Love it. But the BMW tax..... O M G. Like omg. Want a intake? 800..... Full exhaust.... $1500.... More power? Bankruptcy... But the worse thing was the Cam bolt that broke and nuked the engine which was $6000 used or more then the car brand new.... Im a little traumatized my German cars now.
I am struggling with the thought of selling my old 330CI, 142k miles, minimal problems in 15 yr.s, since I purchased low miles E92 M3 a yr. ago. But I need a daily and it's not going to be the M3, save that for weekends and long trips mostly.
I bought a 330ci a couple years ago as one came up for sale in my area with a manual. Very easy reliable car to work on and own. I was a BMW mechanic but that was years ago. I maybe have an advantage in that regard but even for a backyard mechanic they are easy to work on. Mine has 140k miles now.. it sees on average 135-145mph once a week if not more where I live. Average 85-90mph and it just takes it. I am meticulous with maintenance on it though as I know I will drive it hard. If you get one get a manual! They are harder to find in the USA but worth it over the automatic.
Great honest review. I myself is a die hard e46 fan. e46s are only good if you know how to wrench or are willing to learn through youtube videos. With that said, it's an incredibly easy car to wrench on. I really can't recommend the car because there are too many suspension parts and gaskets that need to be replaced.
Great little video on a controversial chassis. I currently drive a converted 2002 330ci which now has all the guts of a 2006 M3 which was totalled at 32000km. So I bought it all swapped over for $9000 Canadian with 68000km on it. Been great car but I had to do all the major maintenance updates like the vanos the rear subframe repair. Love the machine now. Perfect balance etc.
@@mlgfrog27 I had a 320i sedan for maybe a year or two with a 5 speed MT, great first car! If it is the facelift E46, the 2.2l with 170hp is just enough for daily usage and most of them won't be beaten up on trackdays like the 330i.
Just bought my first BMW last week. It's a 2008 328xi 6spd Manual with 80k miles, all service history done at the dealer, it was a 1 owner car (a woman in her 50's). I paid $7600 and I could not be happier!
I did think about getting an E46 330Ci, but two things lets it down. 1) It is quite an older car, with associated older car expenses, and 2) it is missing the practicality of 2 extra doors. This is why I selected the E90 330i, which also has more power than the E46 330Ci. But yeah, the E46 Coupe is a beautifully classical shape and that is not to be dismissed.
Been driving a 330xi for a year now....Love it! Yes, a bunch of repairs but if you can work on it yourself and get a few special tools....no prob. x-drive really great in snow...I think a must. Mine the only BMW in my little town and all think it's really "high toned".
Great ride! Everything broke on my fully BMW dealership serviced BMW e46 330i though and it cost me a -fortune- in repair bills. But, you learn from it... I now do all my repairs myself ;)
I've got a 2000 BMW E46 330ci here in Australia. Mine has 145,000kms (90,000ish miles) and I love it. Finished in Fern Green metallic, beige leather and the same wood as in this video, I still enjoy driving it even though it's 19 years old.
Just bought a 2001 325Ci coupé. Still looks and drives incredibly well. I always have a grin on my face when I'm driving it, especially when that 6 cylinder engine growls at me! 😊 Give me this naturally aspirated engine over the 2.0 turbocharged engine of the Mini Cooper S I previously had any day!
Dude..Switch to automatic mode .. drive 49 miles on hour, and push the accelerator pedal all the way ... you have the last 3 cm at the bottom the hard part..kick down. You'll see how it launches ✌
Got an oxfordgreen 320ci, manual, and I can tell you, I have been driving it for 2 years and boy its a joy to drive, no problem soo far, it even gots M sport package, beige interior, and does not even look old when you put on LED tail lights :D
Great car if you're up to the task. Just bought a $600 325i sedan to make into a drift missile and I'm really hyped to take it out on the track in a couple weeks
@@qmarq I live in Ohio. The previous owner slid in snow and hit a guard rail so it definitely has dents and imperfections but no frame damage just body. It was on facebook marketplace and I was just scouring with no intention to buy. It was a deal I couldn't pass up. It's a project car with it's own issues but it's been worth it. 188,000 miles, manual 5sp
Ah makes sense. Yea it's a pretty nice deal you got there if the damage is fixable with ease. That's awesome though. Here, (I'm in Europe, small country Estonia), you got e46's with proper engines start from $2k but really $3k, but I guess if they were to be damaged they'd be a bit lower but I doubt down to 600..? depends on the damage I guess. Excited for you though! Drift missile sounds like fun.
@@qmarq Estonia? That's so cool you guys have some of the best drifters in that region of europe. Yeah I.ll be posting videos soon I'll keep you posted
I've become an "old" BMW convert after purchasing a salvage 01 M5 with only 80k on the clock for $12k. Car was pretty solid, interior in great shape, and lots of history to prove it had been cared for. I've probably put about $6k into it over the past 2 years and 12k miles, including tires, rotors and brakes, an RMS, and some odd fixes. Expensive? Yes. Some annoying and unexpected? Absolutely. I'm in an area saturated with old american antique muscle cars and 90s / 00s pony cars. And these builds regularly cost $30-50k! And at the end of the day, my M5 gets just as much "street cred", has better performance (it turns), it is comfortable as hell, and honestly is just as reliable as any modified / built project. I think most people just look at these cars with the wrong glasses on. Seen as a fun cruiser / weekender / light daily driver, they are just as "reliable" and as expensive as these other project car builds.
Dang, the e39 m5 might be the most iconic bmw of all time (if not e46 m3). That era was the automotive worlds watermark in my opinion and that car you saved is one reason why. Do you still have it?
@@scottb4104 still purring. Up to 110k miles now. Nothing major has gone wrong. Some annoying steering angle sensors, an ac controller sensor, and an abs module that I mailed off for repair. Otherwise fairly reliable. It does need valve cover gaskets done at the moment. Luckily there is a video guide for just about everything on this car thanks to e39source or m539 Restorations.
@@collinnorman5838 Nice!! Yea doing the work yourself cut's the ownership cost in half, and that makes a big difference on most bimmers. What color is it?
@@scottb4104 titanium silver metallic, black sports interior, titan line trim. She's no garage queen, but still shines up well for 20+ years old. All the dash pixels are still intact!
Disconnect the butterfly valve from the tail pipe will make it sound better. I have the E46 330ci 2002 convertible and love it. Spent shed loads on it with vacuum leak problems. Had it re-leathered and wheels re-coated. Wouldn’t sell it but wouldn’t buy another one.
Check all the vacuum pipes as they start to split at that age, many forums about this but check out 50sKid on RUclips. Once sorted it runs spot on, but can be a long job finding where the problem is. I’ve replaced just about everything including plugs, coil packs but still has a P0171 & P0174 fault but only when ticking over. Think i can live with at the moment as i think this is the best 3 series.
Thanks for the tip-I have heard this suggested before so I might try it!! I have also had quite a few vacuum leak problems. Hopefully I have them all sorted out for the time being!! :)
@@adycooke5925 if you haven't fixed it It ended bieng my MAF in my 04 325i w 170k I bought a used one for 75 bucks and it fixed it after chasing the issues for 7 months and it's been flawless for the last 10k since
I love my 2003 e46 330i. Had it for 5yrs (I'm 23 it was my first car given to me by my uncle who's a cop). Only 125k miles and only had to do regular tuneups and oil changes. Everything stock as an m sport edition. Drove it down to Florida when I was 21 from new york and was the smoothest ride. And for a 2003, it has more features than a 2009 Ford focus lol. Any ideas for mods? Not sure what to do. I love it stock.
Removing the annoying clutch delay valve is a common one. It's why when you first got the car you Kangaroo'd everywhere when taking off. It's meant to be there to protect the driveshaft and prevent it twisting if you dump the clutch at high revs but it makes the clutch feel very slushy compared to when it's removed. Google it.
Do an exhaust with headers and a magnaflow or borla muffler. Get a chip, bigger throttle body and cold air intake and you will have a great sounding, responsive daily.
I love my 152000 mile 330i well maintained and have had minimal problems. (Watch the cooling system worth replacing as precaution) I fixed the side cloth with plumbers plastic pipe glue it worked perfectly.. it was just the strip where it says air bad but looks original now :)
So you've got through the expense and trouble to install performance cams... Yet only other mods are high school tuner wanna be with intake and exhaust, smoking ford and chevy flagship muscle cars? Imma call b.s.
The aftermarket parts available for the E46 are plentiful and extremely recently priced if you shop around. All over Amazon.....all over eBay. The E46 is the last of the BMW's that are really easy to work on and down don't need a computer or diagnostic tool to do almost anything as evidenced in later models. After 2006 you need a computer just to change the battery! There are literally hundreds of do-it-yourself articles, blogs, Forum articles and RUclips videos on how to work on the E46.
Let's talk oil consumption on the E46 and the M54 engine and any remedies other than replacing with M52 rings. Has BMW addressed this known issue? Recall?
@@ronlaporta4653 Just keep it topped off with oil until it gos. At this age just do a rebuild on the m54, or a used unit. Rebuilds dont cost that much and plenty engines can be found in junkyards. I got a m54b30 for $300 bucks at my local junkyard I plan to rebuild for boost later.
This makes me miss my 2000 328ci. That car was so pure. I just wish it had a manual but it was optioned to the T and extremely fun to drive. I liked the 330ci and ZHP model. If I were to ever go back to the E46 I would get an M3 convertible. I replaced the E46 with an LCI E92 and I absolutely love it.
I bought a friends garage kept 2004 330ci convertible last year with 15,000 miles. What a find. Original tires. Valve stems came out in my hand first time I added air. Needed a few hoses and a fan clutch, that's it. Its blast to drive. Best looking BMW ever imo. Best grill ever. Everything you said in your review was spot on except the back seat. No room back there even for grandkids.
My 04 330xi has beat a few new Accords off the line, and on the highway I pull on them slightly. Raced a new Civic turbo on the highway in Mexico and we were just about even until about 120mph then I left him Just some headers, ZHP cams, CAI, and an aggressive tune isn't that bad compared to newer cars Video is awesome btw
I have an 02’ 330i (sport/aero package, 5 speed manual, M wheels, all the good stuff). It has been a one owner car (my dad) since it rolled off of the showroom floor when he ordered it a few months before I was born. It’s the car that I was brought home from the hospital in, and has been in my family ever since. It slept in a garage for the first 80% of its life, and as of right now is sleeping under a patio. All the work done on the car was done either by BMW, or my dad and I. So when it became mine, I had pride in doing all the work on it and all the installs I wanted to. Right now it is at a little over 196,000 miles, runs like a dream, I still rip down back roads almost everyday, and it has hit its speed limiter (track day) with no complaints. I am about to buy new wheels and sticky tires, roll bar, bucket seat, Alcantara wheel, 5 point harness, straight pipe and many more fun things to prepare for autocross. I have already done quite a few things to the car such as new angel eye headlight assembly, blacked out grills, muffler delete, drilled rotors, etc. My family just bought an F30 335i with every bit of M sport package, and we are about to take it to stage 2. But as far as driving and handling, I love my e46. It’s the best steering I have ever driven. It just makes me happy. If you are thinking about getting an e46, just do it.
I have a very nice 2004 330ci m sport 6sp manual coupe in black. Had it for 5 years and fitted eibach springs and arbs, BMW performance exhaust and intake and Polybushed front and rear bushes, sounds lovely and goes and handles very well, and looks great IMO .
CDs are great, they provide some of the best sound quality out of anything still. I don't know why people are so quick to disown them just because it's an older technology. I feel they've aged just as well as this car.
But the human ear really struggles in an Ideal environment to recognize the difference between anything over 44khz sampling and 16 bit depth. 192khz sampling in 24-bit sounds a bit more immediate and live than 44 at 16 on studio monitors in a totally quiet sound compensated space but honestly there's not much in it. The transients are more forceful and there is little bit more dynamic range available but songs nowadays don't use the dynamic range so unless you are listening to some pretty niche stuff and the engineer has mastered it to preserve the dynamic range it's not gonna make any difference. Good mastering will trump the difference between 192-32 and 44-16 for humans - your dog might protest but what can you do? Luv and Peace.
perlewitzaudio I’m old enough to remember playing tape cassettes in my 1st car, and yes CDs were great, but they scratched way too easily, all my music is on my phone, way more easy, and less junk in my car
Hello from Europe. I drive E46 330d Touring manual and its the best purchase I have done. Bought it at 229k kilometers (about 140k miles) in mint condition for little bit over 2k € and still loving it after 2 years of ownership. M57D30 is great engines. Only changed fuel hoses and doing regular maintance.
@@fistupmyass1705 I live in Toronto and that's exactly what happened to me. I had the car garaged and the one night I leave it outside it was extremely cold which ended up making the CCV fail. When you take off your oil cap in the winter you might see that gross orange sludge. That's what froze in the CCV which ended up making it fail. It was probably worn out in the first place as I am sure if it was new it might not happen. If you haven't changed your ccv yet you should seriously consider it and if doing a catch can, i did exactly what the 50's kid shows and it works perfect. I just put my catch can in a different location. - ruclips.net/video/Biyu9iUXrn4/видео.html
Actually just rechecked your original comment since you changed it already you should be good. However the catch can is an option but you have to make sure to drain it once in a while. It builds up in the winter mostly, the summer hardly gets any build up.
I LOVE my 2002 titanium sliber 330ci sp, and IDC what people say, if you ever owned a real sorted 330ci then you've realized how much fun BMWs were meant to be from its inception era to current day! Cant wait to buy the 2004 E46 M3 csl when they are legally able to be shipped state side. XD
@@danielzychniewicz2633 tbch, most of my money for the CSL will be from a settlement i won in court. so that along with my insurance deductable i should be good when it comes time to buy my CSL! XD
I agree 100% Just a great looking car great engine, I dont like the steering wheel though, I have an E36 325i coupe , its rare too , but i would like an E46 330ci , Great cars to own and keeeeeeeep
Instruments and electronics not working? In a 2003 model? That's incredible. I have a 1985 3-series and not a single electronic thing has faltered yet nor been replaced. However, those are wonderful looking cars and the last good looking 3-series (in my opinion). A great video as well. I especially enjoyed the little historic detour from the car at the ranch!
I wish I could enjoy a 330ci in that condition. Mines got 222,000 miles, bad ball joints, shocks that are absolutely shot, interior falling apart etc. it’ll be nice one day
Bought a ‘02 330ci as my first car when I was 16. Soon to be 3 years that I’ve had the car, have done lca bushings, ccv, o2 sensors, intake boots, vacuum lines, fuel filter, and more. 5 speed manual makes it a very fun car, and if you’re handy and willing to do the work then it’s perfect
I personally enjoy the inline 6 sound, but imo the harmon kardon system in this car is the true gem...could be the cabin acoustics but it's a very balanced, full sound with punchy bass that blows the upgraded bang & olufsen system in a family member's modern AMG as well as the base system in a modern S class out of the water...and I'm pretty picky with sounds. I would highly recommend installing an AUX-in port to play off your phone if you don't have one, only costs about $30 on ebay irc. I have a 2005 (facelifted viersion) 330ci coupe thats been well cared for with all the options...only 83k miles...its such a great daily and has had really few real issues over the years. Unfortunately will need to sell it at some point this year as I need a bigger car for the next stage of my life :( will be a sad day
just looking to buy a 2001 330ci as my first car and I would like to have a better way to play music than through a cigarette lighter transmitter. do you know what the aux in port was called and how it worked?
I recently bought a 2005 330i and regards to the m54 I understand what you’re talking about. At certain revs it sounds like a bus in a way. I think when I get an aftermarket exhaust it will cover it up with a louder growl.
Yo that’s crazy, I just bought a 330 ci TODAY not knowing much about it, for $2,500! Then searched the car up on RUclips and found this video.. 😂 guess I got a good deal
My first BMW was a 2001 BMW 330ci, the same color as this car. I special ordered it and followed it while being built and shipped from Germany. Sold it in 2003 to get a 2003 BMW 540 MTech. A guy from Houston flew to see the car in Maryland, then flew back the following weekend to buy it, then drove it back to Houston.
E46's have already started appreciating, I've been watching them for a while and it's getting hard to find decent ones now. Apart from the M3, the best investment e46 is going to be 330ci sport non convertible with manual box and low miles. Here the UK right now, the car I've just described will set you back around 7k-8k.
You must be a V6/V8 guy if you don't like the inline 6. My friend likes better his VR6 VW than sound of his 330i E46. VR6 is kind of nissans VQ35 aka Chubaka 😃. Anyway inline 6 is my favorite, toyotas JZ, nissans RB sounds delicious, BMWs sound great too , just a bit more brute. Now about the E46 - high coolant temperature is what killing those cars (basically anything after E36). Make sure you have metal water pump and put colder thermostat, (oem one is 97*C ). Weak points are are coolant system and rear subframe mounting points Otherwise E46 is solid lovely to drive platform for petrol heads. If you want reliable car buy toyota or honda, wel the downside is they don't feel solid, nice and quiet.
My 2002 330ci is straight piped from the cat & back, sounds very beautiful with all the crackles & pops, best decision I made & yes it’s manual. Recently took it up to 145mph. ;)
I own a BMW 330CI CONVERTIBLE! The one I have was used and pre-owned and I purchased this car in 2020. At the time, I really needed a car and this was in my price range, also I was very unknowledgable about cars since that was my first one. So I guess how I can describe my experience with it was bitter-sweet. I made it look extremely nice; kept it clean everyweek, put designs/cosmetics to make it look rival with the top sports cars of this era (Vipers, GTRs, 350z, many more) BUT the unreliabllity I had on it was absolutely insane and whenever I tried to have fun in it..... I can't. So, maybe it is only my BMW 330CI who is having this issue since mine was wrecked but repaired BEFORE I had it. My advice I'd give to people who is buying they car for the first time and had 0 knowledge on cars. CHECK THE RELIABILLITY OF THE CAR, COST OF FUTURE MAINTENANCE AND FOR ACCIDENTS! If you don't, you will have what I got and that is a lemon (DogTurd). So everything that looks good or has a high value name, make sure it runs great because not everything that looks good ain't good. #SpeakingFromExperience
I want you to know this video encouraged me to look at E46s. As a result. I just bought a beautiful 06 330ci ZHP coupe also in auto trans. It's no Grand Am, but I am very pleased!
Yes but watch out for coolant leaks. If you get your cooling system replaced you'll be golden for another 100k. if you can turn a wrench yourself this car really isn't that expensive to maintain
@@davidesmas3206 Inspect the Radiator for leaks, any wetness around the coolant reservoir. Check the amount of coolant in the car on a cold start. Go on a test drive for 5-10 minutes. A large piece of cardboard under the front of the car (after a test drive) can catch any leaking fluids. Additionally you shouldn't see any white smoke (from burning coolant) when you start the car with the hood up. Since the car you're looking has reached 100k miles I'd go ahead and drop a new radiator in there anyways just to be safe.
@@HelloRoad YOU GOT REAL LUCKY.. Damn that's a steal if it's in excellent shape, that is. I just paid 6500 for mine with 68,971 miles on her. She looks mint inside the cabin too and with a new head unit. Paint also mint too. It looked like he barely drove it. Nope, he just said that it was for weekends and always garaged for it's entire life. Never saw raind. Damn 0_0! It was more than worth it. I feel like i stole it from the guy.
@@einen4554 insurance is impossible to find at that age here , and if you find someone who can insure you , it'll be like +2k a year ( remember I'm from europe and we can drive from 18 yo)
I have a 2001 BMW 330ci Manual with M wheels and the bmw touchscreen with a Harman kardon system with a dope sub and I'm happy with it. Such a nice car with nothing wrong.
Now I’m intrigued. I own an e46 323ci & you pull back to down shift & push forward to up shift. Mine is a 2.5 straight six & I think it sounds good. But shortly after I bought it, in a supermarket car park a 330ci stopped me in my tracks! I didn’t know what the beautiful noise was & I stuck around until I located it. It was a 330ci (Idk if it was still standard) but I fell in love & i am off a week on Monday to buy my very own. I will then be the very proud owner of two very very clean e46’s 🥰
Happy owner since new of a 2004 E46 330i. Came equipped with a SSG trans, but that broke. Now it’s a manual. Yey!!! 200k miles of many things going bad, but fixed those things because that is love.
E46 models are going to be the next modern classic
Agreed!
@@HelloRoad also a major repair bill hole xD
100%, I'm never selling my 323ci that car has sentimental value to me
@Zombie Head Likely because of volume. Lots more E46's were sold than E36's, and as such more people are enjoying them. Not to mention the E36's subframe issues were worse than the E46 (the 323 and 328 E46's were particularly bad though), so that's definitely kept more on the road in general.
I have an E46 2003 M3
Happy 2001 330CI owner for 15 yr.s, 142k miles minimal problems.
I have an 02 with 144k miles and aside from a couple of minor bodywork issues which I'm midway through sorting it's a perfect car. Underneath she's perfect.
@@l34052 Good to hear that! I keep mine waxed, seats conditioned, under car port plus often covered and folks who don't know BMs are surprised it's going on 20. Few minor 'doored' dings and scratches. (however I am about to put it in the air to replace all the rubber suspension parts, replace valve cover gasket, fix oil leak in front and probably replace all the external coolant system components, some $1200 in parts alone) It's not a Toyota but it's fun to drive unlike a Toy.
And considering you're from Chicago (bean) that means a lot. I figure the winter road salt would have wrecked under carriage by now
@@K4R3N Great assumption but wrong. The internals to The Bean were fabricated in a shop near mine at the time, ('farther' N. California) of course it's not just a shell but has a complex SS frame inside plus a footing steel frame under and it's my fave modern piece. 'Optically perfect' is no easy task every weld distorts things.
NO Salt here and essentially zero rust. I took such things into account purchasing my E92 M3 a yr.ago...and one previous owner instead of 4 or 5 'renters'. (330 demoted to around town, M3 for weekends n road trips)
@@Mrbfgray come up to Chicago this summer and let's check out the bean together! And give our german cars (Audi for me) a run on beautiful lake shore drive.
Nothing is more expensive than a cheap BMW.
Ha! That's the title of my other vid about this car: ruclips.net/video/2fMWi3b3XvE/видео.html
the e46 is cheap to fix. trust me i bought a 800$ beater 325i. so far i have fixed it with ducktape,electrical tape. one of the angeleyes where put on wrong so it burned trough all the wires. i fixed it by just coneccting the wires back togheter using hose clamps. yes i had nothing beter laying around so it had to be hose clamps to clamp them togheter. all the cracked hoses and plastic tubes and shit that usualy go wrong can allso be ducktaped togheter. the crank case bleader hose i fixed with electricaltape. it had a cloged fuel filter so i took it off and flushed it first with water (in oposite flow to wash out the shit) then with petrol till it was all clear then put it back on. bmws can be cheap to own... or well they are cheap aslong as we don't factor in fuel cost
In the US maybe. I'm always surprised to hear that e46 is so expensive to maintain. In europe parts cost nothing. Labour is cheap or costs nothing if you do it yourself. (for example i paid $10 for a rear wiper motor, barely used clutch with flywheel is like a 100$, manual trans is about a 100$, 3l 135kw bare diesel engine is 50-100 dollars, e46 doors are $15, the hood is $20, diesel turbo manifold $40 dollars, turbo $150 etc.)
it depends. its a gamble like anything else. my 330ci in 7 years only has had 1 issue. drivers side acctuator went, other than that its been a dream. the modding potential for these is immense. i consider them underrated.
@@danielzychniewicz2633lol that's the only issue with my 2000 e46.
but its the actuator in the front passenger door.
other than that the cars been very reliable.
and replacing the accuator is a DIY job anyway.
The E46 is definitely the best looking BMW IMO
Too round to me. Reminds me of the jettas of that time. I think the E36 is the best looking, more timeless to me.
@@sergeysmelnik the boxyness of the e36 makes it seem more old. as much as i love a e36 m3 i will always know it was an old car just by its appearance.
E92 M3 is there a even contest?
E34 Touring 💓
I do think the 330 is much cleaner than the m3. But overall i agree...its to round snd bloaty looking for my liking.
Bought my teenage daughter a used 2002 BMW 330ci as her first car, in a 5MT. It survived three years with her, and is still running strong, with 174,000 miles!! It is still a blast to drive, still looks cool and modern, handles well...most undervalued car!!
had any issues?
Great car… but not as a first car.
Up to downshift and down to upshift is actually more convenient than the other way round for sporty driving. Most sequential gearboxes for rallying do this aswell.
Yup, that's how race cars work with sequential shifting. BMW retained that racing feel
Thank god someone said it😂 couldn’t stop thinking about that the whole video👍🏽
Getting Iveco truck vibes lol
Afaik Even dragsters have The same shifting manager
Couldn’t be more wrong. Almost all racing cars with sequential use the pull back to up shift and push forwards to down. Opposite of this. Mainly because when your accelerating hard the g forces push you into your seat and it’s easier to pullback. And under hard braking it’s easier to push it forwards. Only real complaint about my e46 is that.
The 330Ci is a very good car if you want a RWD driver's car. Add an LSD, some mild suspension upgrades and make sure the cooling system is maintained and you have a good daily you can do lots of fun skids in. Don't buy an automatic--it ruins the whole reason you are going through the agony of old BMW ownership.
To be honest, I loved my auto bimmers. They've done pretty well with a trans chip etc. Don't get me wrong I prefer the manual as well but it just seems like it's a trend to hate on the autos.
Auto bmw e39 or e46 make great daily long distance commuters. 80 feels like 60 mph
@@lakeshorerides yes I agree the autos are perfect for daily cruises
Add a ESS supercharger kit to it!
I WOULD agree as MTs are a blast to drive but.. living in LA with such insane traffic, the auto is sort of a godsend.
I just recently bought a 325i and I love it. It's a great drivers car and I can really recommend people to buy an e46.
330i is much better & torquey
@@azharsiddique4873 It's also more expensive. Not everyone has unlimted budget. And sometimes you just need a car.
I feel you, had similar issues with my 02 E46 325i sedan with 94k. It's worth fixing compared to a rust bucket. I'm actually amazed how the paint is still looking fresh, the door locks work pretty well and everything is in a good shape after three owners. Me and my fathers friend got it running like new after a few oil changes, new vacuum lines, a disa valve, valve cover gasket, front struts, control arm bushings in the front, tires, brake pads and some service.
I agree, E46 has a lot going for it. Excellent driving dynamics, lots of parts availability, good gas mileage, stylish interior. The coupe version is sexy. Former E39 owner now X3 E82 awd
Whats the mpg on it?
These cars are cheap if you work on them your self easy to work on
Cheap, yeah yeah. I'm installing KWV1 and Wavetrac, as well as rear subframe upgrade. Cheap compared to a 2013 335i, but still not cheap.
@@kent570253 I must be the luckiest guy here, 142k miles, 15 yr.s ownership, 2001 330CI with mild Dinan, been cheap and reliable so far. Instead of dreading the trip in a Toyota you might look forward to the drive. But I am planning a preemptive 'overhaul' that I sure wouldn't want to pay someone else to do, be up in the air for a few weeks of much of my spare time plus up to $1.5k in parts, it's near 20 yr.s old...rubber suspension parts, control arms, plastic coolant parts, radiator, a couple engine gaskets, vanos, so YEAH it's not Toyota cheap/reliable, more maintenance required....but it might be worth it if you value a proper balanced capable REAR DRIVE car that handles great even at 135mph in high cross winds and rain and still good acceleration at that spd. (not that you'd wanna try that except out in Nevada maybe as I've done) 50/50 wt. distribution matters!...along with proper suspension, brakes, steering, handling....you can confidently hammer the binders if someone cuts you off on the freeway and/or swerve at the same time without fuss, or downshift and get away.
Bo McGillacutty I’m 100 % with you on that. As a matter of fact I own 3 beemers. E46, E90 and leasing a F22. They are all great cars. I just know they are expensive because I work for BMW and see everything that goes wrong with them. These cars can be cheap if you neglect oil leaks and put crappy parts on them, but if you gof quality, its going to be expensive. Do I think it is worth it? Totally!!!
Ha.. hahaha hahhaahhaa
@@Mrbfgray i have a 2003 325ci with 100k miles bought it with 94k miles and the coolant reservoir has cracked the front right control arm failed the oil pan gasket is leaking smh just bought a mercedes benz and haven't looked back repairs are way easier and parts fail less my e46 hasn't moved in 8months LMAO
Got an 2004 330ci with every option possible and 228K on the clock for only 3200$ I love her so much... I knew I wanted a well maintained high mileage car and after looking for a few months I finally found one. And after just about a year and a half a ownership, I’ve put less than 1K into and most of it was basic maintenance. Definitely recommend an E46 if you want to work on your car a bit and have one the best chassis to date: BMW for life, hopefully I can get my 335i soon too :P
That's a lot of miles bro, Im looking for one a little over 100k, out here in california they go over 4 to 5k in good condition
I can't wait to one E46 I am in love
today they blew up to 10 000 euros in EU, idk about USA.
I just spent.$9900, 2003330ic convert. 73000 miles. Florida car its entire life.Good maintenance. Garage queen?? Looks to be about spotless.
Im 68, have had over 100 cars..I simply always loved the style and dimensions of the e46 series. This may be the last sportscar I own. And @$10k.. I concider it..money well spent.
Ah what price we pay for
" ohshits!..and grins"
The e46 is sure to be an appreciating classic.
my e46 316 has 661.730 km and still not a single problem at the engine . i love this model
i have a 2002 325ci and I honestly love how the i6 sounds, especially as it climbs the revv range
I love your video. Refreshingly honest commentary, clean visuals and fine editing.
Makes me appreciate my 2002 330Ci convertible even more.
Thanks!
Thanks so much for watching!! :) :)
Adhesive spray from Home Depot kept the whole roof liner up in my volvo S70, worked 15 years ago and still today.
E46 are very underated and have potential get em while theyre cheap!!
Oh God. I loved my E46 M3. I thought I knew what a car was. I didn't before the m3. Handing. Absolutely perfect. Engine sound, phenomenal. SMG? Anyone who doesn't like the m3 with SMG that isn't manual bias is crazy! Literally a Ferrari transmission and for a transmission that old it was nearly if not faster than some Dual clutch transmissions. SMG is literally a manual without a clutch. Love it. But the BMW tax..... O M G. Like omg. Want a intake? 800..... Full exhaust.... $1500.... More power? Bankruptcy... But the worse thing was the Cam bolt that broke and nuked the engine which was $6000 used or more then the car brand new.... Im a little traumatized my German cars now.
Garrett Giuffre well, nobody ever said that ferrari transmissions are good^^
Smg is shit
One of the best designs, body style and interior.
Just sold my perfect example 330ci convertible for $3,500 with 161k miles on it. I already miss it😢
😭
Cesar Lopez I have an 04’ that 80K on it and can’t wait for Spring!
Eww a convertible e46. You did the right thing
@@JibronLames 😂😂😂 true, i wish they did hard top convertibles instead like Mercedes on their sl 500's
I am struggling with the thought of selling my old 330CI, 142k miles, minimal problems in 15 yr.s, since I purchased low miles E92 M3 a yr. ago. But I need a daily and it's not going to be the M3, save that for weekends and long trips mostly.
Love an e46 there looks are timeless
The auto manual mode transmissions we’re done properly at the time (up for downshifts and down for up shifts)… like a sequential setup
I bought a 330ci a couple years ago as one came up for sale in my area with a manual. Very easy reliable car to work on and own. I was a BMW mechanic but that was years ago. I maybe have an advantage in that regard but even for a backyard mechanic they are easy to work on. Mine has 140k miles now.. it sees on average 135-145mph once a week if not more where I live. Average 85-90mph and it just takes it. I am meticulous with maintenance on it though as I know I will drive it hard. If you get one get a manual! They are harder to find in the USA but worth it over the automatic.
Great honest review. I myself is a die hard e46 fan.
e46s are only good if you know how to wrench or are willing to learn through youtube videos. With that said, it's an incredibly easy car to wrench on.
I really can't recommend the car because there are too many suspension parts and gaskets that need to be replaced.
Great little video on a controversial chassis. I currently drive a converted 2002 330ci which now has all the guts of a 2006 M3 which was totalled at 32000km. So I bought it all swapped over for $9000 Canadian with 68000km on it. Been great car but I had to do all the major maintenance updates like the vanos the rear subframe repair. Love the machine now. Perfect balance etc.
I bought a 2003 325i. Not the fastest thing on the road at all but it still gives me a smile when I downshift and lay into it
“I WoUlDve GoTtEn a MaNuAl BuT I CoUldNt PaSs uP tHis GreAt DeAl”
literally what i said 😔
Necromancer ___ im gonna get a 320ci as my first car soon. do you think i should get a manual?
MMLZ what do you think you should get
MMLZ I would say if you are an car enthusiast and you like feeling connected with your car I would get the manual
@@mlgfrog27 I had a 320i sedan for maybe a year or two with a 5 speed MT, great first car! If it is the facelift E46, the 2.2l with 170hp is just enough for daily usage and most of them won't be beaten up on trackdays like the 330i.
Just bought my first BMW last week. It's a 2008 328xi 6spd Manual with 80k miles, all service history done at the dealer, it was a 1 owner car (a woman in her 50's). I paid $7600 and I could not be happier!
i just bought a 2001 330ci, immaculate condition 75k miles Oxford green with the cream leather interior, beautiful car, i paid £1100 and its perfect!
Wow that sounds like a bargain!! :) :)
great deal. enjoy.
oooo! Oxford Green is a brilliant color for the e46 coupe. Hard color to find here in the US.
Got the Oxford green last week paid 1400 ENJOY !
Jessica Humble how are people getting this car for so cheap in good condition? here in California they are 2 or 3x's what you paid.
I did think about getting an E46 330Ci, but two things lets it down. 1) It is quite an older car, with associated older car expenses, and 2) it is missing the practicality of 2 extra doors. This is why I selected the E90 330i, which also has more power than the E46 330Ci. But yeah, the E46 Coupe is a beautifully classical shape and that is not to be dismissed.
I just put that motor in my E30, added a cam and I got myself a 240rwhp 1000kg rocket ship
matt nev 😍
Been driving a 330xi for a year now....Love it! Yes, a bunch of repairs but if you can work on it yourself and get a few special tools....no prob. x-drive really great in snow...I think a must. Mine the only BMW in my little town and all think it's really "high toned".
I used no Iron hemming tape for my saggy pillar fabric, worked like a charm.
Just bought a 2003 one, My first can and I love it. Already washed and cleaned it.
how is it doing now? just looking to buy a 2001 330ci right now
Great ride! Everything broke on my fully BMW dealership serviced BMW e46 330i though and it cost me a -fortune- in repair bills. But, you learn from it... I now do all my repairs myself ;)
I've got a 2000 BMW E46 330ci here in Australia. Mine has 145,000kms (90,000ish miles) and I love it. Finished in Fern Green metallic, beige leather and the same wood as in this video, I still enjoy driving it even though it's 19 years old.
Great video! The E46 is a timeless classic, much fun to be had 👍
Thanks so much, glad you enjoyed the video! :) :)
Just bought a 2001 325Ci coupé. Still looks and drives incredibly well. I always have a grin on my face when I'm driving it, especially when that 6 cylinder engine growls at me! 😊
Give me this naturally aspirated engine over the 2.0 turbocharged engine of the Mini Cooper S I previously had any day!
Dude..Switch to automatic mode .. drive 49 miles on hour, and push the accelerator pedal all the way ... you have the last 3 cm at the bottom the hard part..kick down.
You'll see how it launches ✌
Got an oxfordgreen 320ci, manual, and I can tell you, I have been driving it for 2 years and boy its a joy to drive, no problem soo far, it even gots M sport package, beige interior, and does not even look old when you put on LED tail lights :D
Great car if you're up to the task. Just bought a $600 325i sedan to make into a drift missile and I'm really hyped to take it out on the track in a couple weeks
Sounds like a ton of fun!!
how did you get it so cheap?! where do you live
@@qmarq I live in Ohio. The previous owner slid in snow and hit a guard rail so it definitely has dents and imperfections but no frame damage just body. It was on facebook marketplace and I was just scouring with no intention to buy. It was a deal I couldn't pass up. It's a project car with it's own issues but it's been worth it. 188,000 miles, manual 5sp
Ah makes sense. Yea it's a pretty nice deal you got there if the damage is fixable with ease. That's awesome though. Here, (I'm in Europe, small country Estonia), you got e46's with proper engines start from $2k but really $3k, but I guess if they were to be damaged they'd be a bit lower but I doubt down to 600..? depends on the damage I guess.
Excited for you though! Drift missile sounds like fun.
@@qmarq Estonia? That's so cool you guys have some of the best drifters in that region of europe. Yeah I.ll be posting videos soon I'll keep you posted
I picked up my 330i msport touring with a 6 speed manual gearbox last year and I absolutely love it !
I've become an "old" BMW convert after purchasing a salvage 01 M5 with only 80k on the clock for $12k. Car was pretty solid, interior in great shape, and lots of history to prove it had been cared for. I've probably put about $6k into it over the past 2 years and 12k miles, including tires, rotors and brakes, an RMS, and some odd fixes. Expensive? Yes. Some annoying and unexpected? Absolutely. I'm in an area saturated with old american antique muscle cars and 90s / 00s pony cars. And these builds regularly cost $30-50k! And at the end of the day, my M5 gets just as much "street cred", has better performance (it turns), it is comfortable as hell, and honestly is just as reliable as any modified / built project. I think most people just look at these cars with the wrong glasses on. Seen as a fun cruiser / weekender / light daily driver, they are just as "reliable" and as expensive as these other project car builds.
Dang, the e39 m5 might be the most iconic bmw of all time (if not e46 m3). That era was the automotive worlds watermark in my opinion and that car you saved is one reason why. Do you still have it?
@@scottb4104 still purring. Up to 110k miles now. Nothing major has gone wrong. Some annoying steering angle sensors, an ac controller sensor, and an abs module that I mailed off for repair. Otherwise fairly reliable. It does need valve cover gaskets done at the moment. Luckily there is a video guide for just about everything on this car thanks to e39source or m539 Restorations.
@@collinnorman5838 Nice!! Yea doing the work yourself cut's the ownership cost in half, and that makes a big difference on most bimmers. What color is it?
@@scottb4104 titanium silver metallic, black sports interior, titan line trim. She's no garage queen, but still shines up well for 20+ years old. All the dash pixels are still intact!
Recently bought a 330ci, it’s identical to this except RHD because I’m in the U.K.,
Nice cars
Disconnect the butterfly valve from the tail pipe will make it sound better. I have the E46 330ci 2002 convertible and love it. Spent shed loads on it with vacuum leak problems. Had it re-leathered and wheels re-coated. Wouldn’t sell it but wouldn’t buy another one.
What was your issue with the vacuum leaks? I am currently having same problems also. Cheers!
Check all the vacuum pipes as they start to split at that age, many forums about this but check out 50sKid on RUclips. Once sorted it runs spot on, but can be a long job finding where the problem is. I’ve replaced just about everything including plugs, coil packs but still has a P0171 & P0174 fault but only when ticking over. Think i can live with at the moment as i think this is the best 3 series.
Thanks for the tip-I have heard this suggested before so I might try it!! I have also had quite a few vacuum leak problems. Hopefully I have them all sorted out for the time being!! :)
"Wouldn't sell it but wouldn't buy another one" lmfao this is so fucking true I hate it haha
@@adycooke5925 if you haven't fixed it It ended bieng my MAF in my 04 325i w 170k I bought a used one for 75 bucks and it fixed it after chasing the issues for 7 months and it's been flawless for the last 10k since
I picked up my first BMW. A 330ci and I love it. $2500.oo it's in great shape minus the front bumper pealing a little. What a blast to drive.
Congrats man, hope i can get one day too
I love my 2003 e46 330i. Had it for 5yrs (I'm 23 it was my first car given to me by my uncle who's a cop). Only 125k miles and only had to do regular tuneups and oil changes. Everything stock as an m sport edition. Drove it down to Florida when I was 21 from new york and was the smoothest ride. And for a 2003, it has more features than a 2009 Ford focus lol. Any ideas for mods? Not sure what to do. I love it stock.
Removing the annoying clutch delay valve is a common one.
It's why when you first got the car you Kangaroo'd everywhere when taking off.
It's meant to be there to protect the driveshaft and prevent it twisting if you dump the clutch at high revs but it makes the clutch feel very slushy compared to when it's removed.
Google it.
Where Da Plug ive only put a cai in mine and it was a huge difference
Do an exhaust with headers and a magnaflow or borla muffler. Get a chip, bigger throttle body and cold air intake and you will have a great sounding, responsive daily.
@@lakeshorerides this will reduce low end torque at the expense of horsepower at the upper Rev range. Not recommended for daily driving.
I love my 152000 mile 330i well maintained and have had minimal problems. (Watch the cooling system worth replacing as precaution) I fixed the side cloth with plumbers plastic pipe glue it worked perfectly.. it was just the strip where it says air bad but looks original now :)
I had one amazing power mines i use to gap 5.0s and camaro ss with my mods
Performance Cams
Air intake
Full cat back exhaust
Headers
With a tune
Is this really true?? I cant imagine it has enough whp to beat a 5.0.!?
So you've got through the expense and trouble to install performance cams... Yet only other mods are high school tuner wanna be with intake and exhaust, smoking ford and chevy flagship muscle cars? Imma call b.s.
You didn't beat 5.0s in this car. Complete BS
@@19hundoc47 I got vids fuck boyyy
Your content is wonderful man, I'm shocked it hasn't completely taken off yet. Keep it coming!
Thanks so much, glad you're enjoying it! 😀
The aftermarket parts available for the E46 are plentiful and extremely recently priced if you shop around. All over Amazon.....all over eBay.
The E46 is the last of the BMW's that are really easy to work on and down don't need a computer or diagnostic tool to do almost anything as evidenced in later models.
After 2006 you need a computer just to change the battery!
There are literally hundreds of do-it-yourself articles, blogs, Forum articles and RUclips videos on how to work on the E46.
Let's talk oil consumption on the E46 and the M54 engine and any remedies other than replacing with M52 rings. Has BMW addressed this known issue? Recall?
My dashbord needed a computer to be reprogrammed
@@ronlaporta4653
Just keep it topped off with oil until it gos.
At this age just do a rebuild on the m54, or a used unit. Rebuilds dont cost that much and plenty engines can be found in junkyards.
I got a m54b30 for $300 bucks at my local junkyard I plan to rebuild for boost later.
Oil catch can
Why are you so afraid of computers? All the diag software is there on the Internets, lots of tutorials.
You really didn't have to go this hard with your edits, but I appreciate that you did so much.
Good luck with it. I've spent alot on parts costs on my e46 but it's soo worth it for that feel.
Thanks! I always drive this knowing that something could break at any minute :)
my first car was a 2001 330i sedan, I loved it so much.
Did you have a gun in your hand
When he decided to " get rid of it" cheap ?
I had one of these. 4 door, 330i 6 speed. It cost me $6,000....in repairs....in one year. It looked good and drove beautifully, when it wasn't broken.
😢
This makes me miss my 2000 328ci. That car was so pure. I just wish it had a manual but it was optioned to the T and extremely fun to drive. I liked the 330ci and ZHP model. If I were to ever go back to the E46 I would get an M3 convertible. I replaced the E46 with an LCI E92 and I absolutely love it.
I bought a friends garage kept 2004 330ci convertible last year with 15,000 miles. What a find. Original tires. Valve stems came out in my hand first time I added air. Needed a few hoses and a fan clutch, that's it. Its blast to drive.
Best looking BMW ever imo. Best grill ever. Everything you said in your review was spot on except the back seat. No room back there even for grandkids.
Just be aware that the Subframes crack, particularly in the 323, 325, 328 early models
My 04 330xi has beat a few new Accords off the line, and on the highway I pull on them slightly. Raced a new Civic turbo on the highway in Mexico and we were just about even until about 120mph then I left him
Just some headers, ZHP cams, CAI, and an aggressive tune isn't that bad compared to newer cars
Video is awesome btw
My 2002 E46 330ci was the best car I have ever owned. I miss it so bad.
I have an 02’ 330i (sport/aero package, 5 speed manual, M wheels, all the good stuff). It has been a one owner car (my dad) since it rolled off of the showroom floor when he ordered it a few months before I was born. It’s the car that I was brought home from the hospital in, and has been in my family ever since. It slept in a garage for the first 80% of its life, and as of right now is sleeping under a patio. All the work done on the car was done either by BMW, or my dad and I. So when it became mine, I had pride in doing all the work on it and all the installs I wanted to. Right now it is at a little over 196,000 miles, runs like a dream, I still rip down back roads almost everyday, and it has hit its speed limiter (track day) with no complaints. I am about to buy new wheels and sticky tires, roll bar, bucket seat, Alcantara wheel, 5 point harness, straight pipe and many more fun things to prepare for autocross. I have already done quite a few things to the car such as new angel eye headlight assembly, blacked out grills, muffler delete, drilled rotors, etc.
My family just bought an F30 335i with every bit of M sport package, and we are about to take it to stage 2. But as far as driving and handling, I love my e46. It’s the best steering I have ever driven. It just makes me happy.
If you are thinking about getting an e46, just do it.
I have a 2004 330ci that I was going to sell when i get my Cayman S but now me thinks i should keep it!
I have a very nice 2004 330ci m sport 6sp manual coupe in black. Had it for 5 years and fitted eibach springs and arbs, BMW performance exhaust and intake and Polybushed front and rear bushes, sounds lovely and goes and handles very well, and looks great IMO .
CDs are great, they provide some of the best sound quality out of anything still. I don't know why people are so quick to disown them just because it's an older technology. I feel they've aged just as well as this car.
But the human ear really struggles in an Ideal environment to recognize the difference between anything over 44khz sampling and 16 bit depth.
192khz sampling in 24-bit sounds a bit more immediate and live than 44 at 16 on studio monitors in a totally quiet sound compensated space but honestly there's not much in it. The transients are more forceful and there is little bit more dynamic range available but songs nowadays don't use the dynamic range so unless you are listening to some pretty niche stuff and the engineer has mastered it to preserve the dynamic range it's not gonna make any difference.
Good mastering will trump the difference between 192-32 and 44-16 for humans - your dog might protest but what can you do?
Luv and Peace.
perlewitzaudio I’m old enough to remember playing tape cassettes in my 1st car, and yes CDs were great, but they scratched way too easily, all my music is on my phone, way more easy, and less junk in my car
@@Sacrifice-Paid did you not see how he mentioned audiophile quality...
@DavorMATF Idiot. Tell us how? MP3 is compressed audio. Can't compare to a WAV file,. You don't know anything about audio
@@ianedmonds9191 Nonsense if you can't hear the difference between a wav file and MP# either A) you listen to shit music B) your hearing is poor.
Hello from Europe. I drive E46 330d Touring manual and its the best purchase I have done. Bought it at 229k kilometers (about 140k miles) in mint condition for little bit over 2k € and still loving it after 2 years of ownership. M57D30 is great engines. Only changed fuel hoses and doing regular maintance.
E46 are the best hands down 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Yup you're wrong on the m54 sound lol! 330ci is a great and honest no-frills motoring. Love mine!
A high flow cone intake filter will make the engine sound great above 3k in my experience. I've had 2 330i's, and ready to get back into one
Which one
@@ryangh5631 Made my own with 3.5" aluminum elbow, a silicone coupler and an AFE Dryflo filter
I bought a 2002 330Ci about 3 years ago now and the biggest expenses have been the water pump and CCV. In terms of driving.. I love it!
If you live in a cold climate ditch that CCV and put in a catch can like I did. My engine blew from a hyrdrolock due to a failed CCV!
@@drew32 I live in Southern Ontario, Canada so it gets a tad cold here during the winter. I may do that!
@@fistupmyass1705 I live in Toronto and that's exactly what happened to me. I had the car garaged and the one night I leave it outside it was extremely cold which ended up making the CCV fail. When you take off your oil cap in the winter you might see that gross orange sludge. That's what froze in the CCV which ended up making it fail. It was probably worn out in the first place as I am sure if it was new it might not happen. If you haven't changed your ccv yet you should seriously consider it and if doing a catch can, i did exactly what the 50's kid shows and it works perfect. I just put my catch can in a different location. - ruclips.net/video/Biyu9iUXrn4/видео.html
Actually just rechecked your original comment since you changed it already you should be good. However the catch can is an option but you have to make sure to drain it once in a while. It builds up in the winter mostly, the summer hardly gets any build up.
I LOVE my 2002 titanium sliber 330ci sp, and IDC what people say, if you ever owned a real sorted 330ci then you've realized how much fun BMWs were meant to be from its inception era to current day! Cant wait to buy the 2004 E46 M3 csl when they are legally able to be shipped state side. XD
you must have deep pockets. those are expensive cars. have fun man those.csls are amazing.
@@danielzychniewicz2633 tbch, most of my money for the CSL will be from a settlement i won in court. so that along with my insurance deductable i should be good when it comes time to buy my CSL! XD
@@danielzychniewicz2633 in the meantime my 330ci is a blast to have around while waiting for my M3 tho. win win
@@ZAKU-GD word. im modding my 330ci to become quite fast. stage 2 supercharger with meth. good times are ahead.
@@danielzychniewicz2633 how much hp?? Mightve been more cost effective to just get the m3 instead haha
My 318ci 2001 the interior is in such good condition with no sag
I agree 100% Just a great looking car great engine, I dont like the steering wheel though, I have an E36 325i coupe , its rare too , but i would like an E46 330ci , Great cars to own and keeeeeeeep
Instruments and electronics not working? In a 2003 model? That's incredible. I have a 1985 3-series and not a single electronic thing has faltered yet nor been replaced.
However, those are wonderful looking cars and the last good looking 3-series (in my opinion). A great video as well. I especially enjoyed the little historic detour from the car at the ranch!
I couldn't get over with the transmission…can't settle on an auto on this baby
I just bought a 2004 330ci fully loaded in almost perfect condition for $1500 in the 6 speed and i cant wait to drive it.
Awesome!!
I got one in excellent condition for under £2000 best car I've ever had
I wish I could enjoy a 330ci in that condition. Mines got 222,000 miles, bad ball joints, shocks that are absolutely shot, interior falling apart etc. it’ll be nice one day
Like a sequential gearbox...they knew what the real drivers wanted. :)
Bought a ‘02 330ci as my first car when I was 16. Soon to be 3 years that I’ve had the car, have done lca bushings, ccv, o2 sensors, intake boots, vacuum lines, fuel filter, and more. 5 speed manual makes it a very fun car, and if you’re handy and willing to do the work then it’s perfect
I personally enjoy the inline 6 sound, but imo the harmon kardon system in this car is the true gem...could be the cabin acoustics but it's a very balanced, full sound with punchy bass that blows the upgraded bang & olufsen system in a family member's modern AMG as well as the base system in a modern S class out of the water...and I'm pretty picky with sounds. I would highly recommend installing an AUX-in port to play off your phone if you don't have one, only costs about $30 on ebay irc.
I have a 2005 (facelifted viersion) 330ci coupe thats been well cared for with all the options...only 83k miles...its such a great daily and has had really few real issues over the years. Unfortunately will need to sell it at some point this year as I need a bigger car for the next stage of my life :( will be a sad day
just looking to buy a 2001 330ci as my first car and I would like to have a better way to play music than through a cigarette lighter transmitter. do you know what the aux in port was called and how it worked?
I recently bought a 2005 330i and regards to the m54 I understand what you’re talking about. At certain revs it sounds like a bus in a way. I think when I get an aftermarket exhaust it will cover it up with a louder growl.
Yo that’s crazy, I just bought a 330 ci TODAY not knowing much about it, for $2,500! Then searched the car up on RUclips and found this video.. 😂 guess I got a good deal
Haha nice!!!
My first BMW was a 2001 BMW 330ci, the same color as this car. I special ordered it and followed it while being built and shipped from Germany. Sold it in 2003 to get a 2003 BMW 540 MTech. A guy from Houston flew to see the car in Maryland, then flew back the following weekend to buy it, then drove it back to Houston.
Its extremely hard to find a 330i sedan with a manual under 100k miles for any price.
Yep, most of them have well over 100k.
Hello Road / Ethan Tufts I have a 2005 330 ci 6 speed m sport package 30,000 original miles.
E46's have already started appreciating, I've been watching them for a while and it's getting hard to find decent ones now.
Apart from the M3, the best investment e46 is going to be 330ci sport non convertible with manual box and low miles.
Here the UK right now, the car I've just described will set you back around 7k-8k.
You can't find one with less than 150.000km for less than 11k€ in France, that's insane
You must be a V6/V8 guy if you don't like the inline 6. My friend likes better his VR6 VW than sound of his 330i E46. VR6 is kind of nissans VQ35 aka Chubaka 😃. Anyway inline 6 is my favorite, toyotas JZ, nissans RB sounds delicious, BMWs sound great too , just a bit more brute.
Now about the E46 - high coolant temperature is what killing those cars (basically anything after E36). Make sure you have metal water pump and put colder thermostat, (oem one is 97*C ). Weak points are are coolant system and rear subframe mounting points Otherwise E46 is solid lovely to drive platform for petrol heads. If you want reliable car buy toyota or honda, wel the downside is they don't feel solid, nice and quiet.
Drift Emigrant but vr6 is an inline 6 aswell
@@444milo kind of but not really , its V6 with15* is it :)
I have an 03 GLI VR6 24v and I like it’s sound over my 02 330ci.
@@CerealGnome fair enough mate
Well said
My 2002 330ci is straight piped from the cat & back, sounds very beautiful with all the crackles & pops, best decision I made & yes it’s manual. Recently took it up to 145mph. ;)
The ZHP is the best daily I've had so far!
I own a BMW 330CI CONVERTIBLE! The one I have was used and pre-owned and I purchased this car in 2020. At the time, I really needed a car and this was in my price range, also I was very unknowledgable about cars since that was my first one. So I guess how I can describe my experience with it was bitter-sweet. I made it look extremely nice; kept it clean everyweek, put designs/cosmetics to make it look rival with the top sports cars of this era (Vipers, GTRs, 350z, many more) BUT the unreliabllity I had on it was absolutely insane and whenever I tried to have fun in it..... I can't. So, maybe it is only my BMW 330CI who is having this issue since mine was wrecked but repaired BEFORE I had it. My advice I'd give to people who is buying they car for the first time and had 0 knowledge on cars. CHECK THE RELIABILLITY OF THE CAR, COST OF FUTURE MAINTENANCE AND FOR ACCIDENTS! If you don't, you will have what I got and that is a lemon (DogTurd). So everything that looks good or has a high value name, make sure it runs great because not everything that looks good ain't good. #SpeakingFromExperience
It looks like the cheapest 330ci i can find is $5,000... I would say that's not bad considering the prices you gave but the next cheapest is $7,500 😅
you're not looking hard enough.
Where are you located?
@@HelloRoad Australia 😂 so it makes sense given currency conversion etc
Ha I have a mint one with give me 5k and yours!
I got a 79k mile 2005 M-Sport with full history for £2900
I want you to know this video encouraged me to look at E46s. As a result. I just bought a beautiful 06 330ci ZHP coupe also in auto trans. It's no Grand Am, but I am very pleased!
Oh nice!!!!
Should i cop a used 2003 330 ci coupe for 2500? It has 110k miles and has been well cared for
Yes but watch out for coolant leaks. If you get your cooling system replaced you'll be golden for another 100k. if you can turn a wrench yourself this car really isn't that expensive to maintain
@@ksmuffinhow can i be sure the bmw i am looking at doesn't have any cooling leaks
@@davidesmas3206 Inspect the Radiator for leaks, any wetness around the coolant reservoir. Check the amount of coolant in the car on a cold start. Go on a test drive for 5-10 minutes. A large piece of cardboard under the front of the car (after a test drive) can catch any leaking fluids. Additionally you shouldn't see any white smoke (from burning coolant) when you start the car with the hood up. Since the car you're looking has reached 100k miles I'd go ahead and drop a new radiator in there anyways just to be safe.
@@davidesmas3206 if you don't feel like doing all the stuff I've listed see if the owner will let you get the car inspected by a reputable BMW shop
@@ksmuffin your a g
I have a 2004 330ci Convertible and I absolutely love it. She has 171k on the clock, but runs amazing. Definitively a highway beast.
You got this with 99k for 2500 wut
I know right??
@@HelloRoad YOU GOT REAL LUCKY.. Damn that's a steal if it's in excellent shape, that is. I just paid 6500 for mine with 68,971 miles on her. She looks mint inside the cabin too and with a new head unit. Paint also mint too. It looked like he barely drove it. Nope, he just said that it was for weekends and always garaged for it's entire life. Never saw raind. Damn 0_0! It was more than worth it. I feel like i stole it from the guy.
in my country you find them for around 10k , impossible to insure as a young ( 20 yo ) driver
JonasVDV that’s crazy I pay like 100 a month in California and I’m 20
@@einen4554 insurance is impossible to find at that age here , and if you find someone who can insure you , it'll be like +2k a year ( remember I'm from europe and we can drive from 18 yo)
I have a 2001 BMW 330ci Manual with M wheels and the bmw touchscreen with a Harman kardon system with a dope sub and I'm happy with it. Such a nice car with nothing wrong.
i think i'll go e36 personally
Now I’m intrigued. I own an e46 323ci & you pull back to down shift & push forward to up shift. Mine is a 2.5 straight six & I think it sounds good. But shortly after I bought it, in a supermarket car park a 330ci stopped me in my tracks! I didn’t know what the beautiful noise was & I stuck around until I located it. It was a 330ci (Idk if it was still standard) but I fell in love & i am off a week on Monday to buy my very own. I will then be the very proud owner of two very very clean e46’s 🥰
Going to give you the business in your cd slot
😆
Happy owner since new of a 2004 E46 330i. Came equipped with a SSG trans, but that broke. Now it’s a manual. Yey!!! 200k miles of many things going bad, but fixed those things because that is love.