Not an easy decision... (archive)

I currently drive the E46 M3. But when considering that car, I carefully looked at the S4. I ended up picking the M3 because I prefer it to the S4, but it was a tough decision because of the price - the S4 can be bargained down to $39k well equipped, while the M3 well equipped is at least $50k.

I also drove the regular 330i with Sports Package for comparison (and my previous car was the 328i). In my opinion, the S4 is nicer to drive than the 330i SP, although it really depends what you like in a car. For example, I found the S4's steering to be significantly tighter and nicer than the 330's, which is a big factor for me (example, the steering wheel in the S4 is very nice and chunky, while the 330's is not as nice), while the gearbox in the 330 is much nicer than that of the S4s - typical bimmer gearbox - does it get any better than the bimmer gearboxes??

Personally, I felt that the S4 was definitely somewhat quicker than the 330 (I don't know if the numbers corroborate that, but the S4's 0-60 is 5.5 secs, and its overtaking power and general torque is incredible - in an Automobile mag comparison of the S4, M3, and AmG C32, they said that 40 - 60 and several other overtaking speeds were quickest in the S4), and the 330xi should be slower than the 330 because of the all wheel drive, so while I haven't driven the 330xi, I would expect the S4 to feel somewhat quicker. This is especially true in overtaking.

The S4 definitely feels more overtly sporty than the 330 and has better handling in my view. The 330 is more refined however, but that was not what I was looking for.

The interior of both cars is very nice and high quality. I slightly prefer the bimmer's interior. The doors on the bimmer are definitely nicer and feel more solid - close with a nice thunk, vs. the Audi's. The 330 has more back seat leg room. I found the S4's driver's seat more comfortable than the 330s, but that's another very personal thing, and probably everyone you talk to will have a different opinion (the M3's is incredible by the way - the nicest seats I have ever sat in).

Overall, I feel that the two are fairly different cars. I think if you are looking for a more sporty car, the S4 is a great car for the price, while if you prefer the rock solidity of the BMW, and are a BMW fan at heart, and/or prefer a more refined car, go for the bimmer.

Oh, and the resale value will most likely be better in the bimmer...

Good luck
T1328

I know this is the Bimma board, but more than that you are smart car lovers, so those of you with any crazy schmack to offer me as answers to this question can save it for your def comedy jam auditions! I am deciding between a 330xi and an S4, there are things I like about both of them, but I need some hard facts/evidence to tip the scales. What are your thoughts? Only those with real world experience with these rides need respond...no disrespect, just weeding out the random stuff.
Cheers,
PV

Follow Ups:

[ Follow Ups ] [ 3-series (E46) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.