Need Help - 325i Standard 16s vs Sport package (newbie)

This will be my first BMW.
Just placed an order but wondering if i should have taken the Sportpack.

I testdrove all cars in this segment and E90 was by far the BEST. No wonder people call it the "ultimate driving machine". It sure is.

Once I knew it is the best car to drive, I knew it would cost most than others in this segment. I wanted to keep the price within reach and still have some of the goodies that I get in other cars this price. My options = memory seats, logic 7, xenon and automatic.

The standard comes with 16s. I thought it handled really well.
It definitely doesnt look as good as 17s though.

Is it true that the rise quality is soft, quiet and supple with 16s than 17s? I would love to have 17s but dont want to give to up any ride quality.

Does 17 contribute to more road noise inside cabin, choppy drive due to firm suspension etc?

Anythign bad about 16s? I dont want to regret for getting the 16s.

Order is out and the vehicle is scheduled for manu. Have to make a decision quick. Please advise.

Thanks..

Reply » Need Help - 325i Standard 16s vs Sport package (newbie)

I experienced the same dilemma when I placed my order and I chose to go with the standard 325i, no sport. It took me a while to make the decision, but here are some of my rationales:

- ride quality: IMHO, the sport version is more aggressive and tactile, conveying a harsher feel.
- upfront cost: $1600 is not that much, but it was a consideration
- future upgrades: down the road, probably 2yrs or so, I plan to get the Dinan Signature package, along with new wheels -- many people consider upgrading in a few years to "refresh" that ultimate driving machine feel.

Hope that helps.

Reply » Need Help - 325i Standard 16s vs Sport package (newbie)

I've never test driven the E90 w/o the sport package. I don't mind the bumpy ride as long as I can corner. I just think the 16s make it look like a rally car. That being said, I regret not getting the 330 with their sport 18s.

Reply » Need Help - 325i Standard 16s vs Sport package (newbie)

Quote:

Sure it helps. Thanks. If not for the price, would you have gone with the 17s, considering the ride quality? I never did a drive comparison and have no clue how bad sportpack would have been in terms of comfort. I am sure it handles better due to its low profile.

Reply » Need Help - 325i Standard 16s vs Sport package (newbie)

I have some of the same questions and thoughts:

Here is my summary of what I have seen on this and other forums:

* Many people think the sport wheel and seats are worth the price of the sport package alone.
* sport package does make a difference in handling
* Bigger wheels than the standard 16 look better (general consensus)
* Sport package tires are Hi-performance. This means that they will wear out about twice as fast as non sport (15k-25K depending on how you drive) and are more expensive to replace.
*Sport package tires have extremly limited to no snow ability.

Do you drive really hard? if so you would probably be happier with the sport.

Another option (depending on what you want/have to spend) that will probably generate some comments, is to get the xi with the sport package. You get the seats, the wheel, 17" all seasons, but not the sport suspension. Best guess is the xi suspension will be al little firmer then the standard...but not much, but there have been no hands on driving reports that I have seen yet.

Reply » Need Help - 325i Standard 16s vs Sport package (newbie)

Quote:

Just saw ur signature. I went with white exterior and beige interior too. However, I chose the burl walnut wood trim. Did you compare the poplar and burlwood with beige?? Which one you think goes better?

I thought poplar + beige would kinda give buick feeling

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