[QUOTE]I have a '05 330i ZHP

 

BMW is one of the best car companys in the world but i still think it would get killed around the track by a s2k.. But the truth is neither one was built to or more then likely ever thought to compete with eachother.
Both are extremely nice cars. but lets be honest

 

Yep both are good at what they do ...

By the way, I test drove a fully BMW Certified 325 (2002) last month at a dealer, and the shifter handle came off in my hand, on my first shift. So much for certification!

It didnt compare to the S2000 as far as fun.... but this was an older 325.

 

STEERING FEEL???

BMW killed the steering feel when it went to power assisted systems. There's no boosted steering that can compare to the non-boosted systems' feel. If you want real communication through the steering, then drive an 'ol 2002. After that...no other car feels the same. Honda should have deleted the power steering from the S2000, but there are too many wimpy city drivers who can't park the thing without steering boost.

P.S. I think the lack of power steering is what makes most people love the new Lotus.

 

shocked to hear that anyone thinks the 3 series handles better then the S. speechless.

 

Nobody thinks that.

 

I have both 05 S2000 and 03 325i. No way the BMW can outhandle the S2K. 325 also lack power. For fun I take the S2K. I drove my friend's 330 and was not much difference with exception to more power.

 

I will definitely do a test drive. But, I just wanted to know your impressions on having driven a 2006 model with sport suspension. I believe that BMW has improved on the suspension and rigidity in the new model and want to know whether this brings it closer in handling to the S2000.
The reason I specifically mention the sport package is because it should make a big difference from the base (205 tire width on all four to 225 on front and 255 on rear), stiffer springs and I also believe they lower the suspension.

I am also looking at a price range close to $33000 - $34000 before tax, so the 330i is currently out of the picture and the s2000 and 325i with sport fall in the same price category.

 

BMW somewhat alleviated their problems with lack of power in '06 330i (255 hp / 3400 lb), which is still short of S2k but better than previous year's 225 hp / 3300 lb. This is really the only model worth considering. All others ( including '06 325 and 330 convertibles ) have horsepower-to-weight ratios of Toyota Corolla and should be considered luxury, not sport cars.

 

Missed this:
As many people said before - BMW 325/330 is not the kind that you'd want to have as a second car. Why don't you sell whatever you're driving right now and buy an '06 330 as a FIRST car? Then, if you have any money left, you can buy a used S2000 or Miata as a second car. This setup would make much more sense.