Re: Is the ride of the 3.0 with SP as harsh as 4.4 (archive)

I went through the same dilemna and after test driving both the 3 without SP and the 4.4 w/SP, we have decided to go with the 4.4 SP for a host of reasons. My advice to you is do the same, test drive both, and make sure YOU feel comfortable. If its a $$ decision, then Game Over, but if you are like me, you will see after you add alot of options to the 3.0 you are within 4-5K of the 4.4 so it becomes smarter to buy the 4.4

According to BMW, about 60% are buying the 3.0. I think a lot of people are buying primarily for their wives. Thats fine, most women I know do not need the extra hspwr, sportier ride, etc.

Before the X series was introduced, my wife wanted an Explorer XLT, so even though I would have preferred going with an V-8 engine, we went with the 6 because that is her car. But I have to tell you every time we made those long weekend trips to Vir from NY to visit and see our daughter play soccer at JMU, I thought the vehicle was not only unsafe, harsh ride, but not much pickup!

Bottom line, I was not going to make the same mistake twice as you can see from my experience. BMW's are meant to have fairly good power, great handling, so anything less for me, would not be a BMW.

Good Luck!

Bruce

I'm looking to place an order for a 2002 3.0, can't decide whether or not to get the SP. I've heard the ride of the 4.4 with SP is very harsh. Is that due primarily to the 19" tires (2001 model) so the ride of the 18" tires on the 3.0 wouldn't be as bad? I'm hoping that is the case. I'd like to get the increased handling of the SP if there's not too much of a harshness penalty.

I currently have a 528i with SP and the ride is great, not too harsh, but I don't want to have my fillings jarred like I did in my 1993 RX7.

Thanks.

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