My dad just recently got a 2001 330i Sport with steptronic. Would the 330i beat my Maxima in a race. I know from 0-60 it would be close, but on the highway the german car probably has the advantage. We used to have a 98' 740iL and that car would definetly pull on my Maxima at highway speeds. From a standstill they would be dead even.

 

Should be really really close.

Figure a 2k 5sp should run around 6.7/15.1 with a good driver. HOWEVER...some guys here have been getting 14.9 second 1/4mile times stock. But they are really good drivers.

A 5sp Maxima is about even with a 5sp 328.

Figure the 330 now has basically the same hp/torque but would have a 5sp auto(read looses some to the wheels) however....cuz its a BMW they seem to tweak their cars really really well.

I'd say dead even. He has the advantage of an easier start. But you probably get more power to the wheels.

Mike S.

 

I think the 3 series is overpriced.

but who cares. YOu are lucky . He is your dad. Enjoy the hell out of the BMW.

 

I'd say it should be very close....

the new 330 has impressive low-mid range torque but from what I've read from car magazines so far its 1/4 mile time (a 5-speed) is not that fast (all about high 14.8-14.9 sec, a skilled 5-speed maxima driver can get high 14s too), it's definately slower with a steptronic.

5th gen engine has very strong mid-high range power so i think it's gonna be very close.

but a 5 speed is always more fun than an auto

 

I posted this same question to a BMW board. I have yet to read their responses, but, the E46 (newest gen) 330i has 225hp, but, weighs in at 3300...both the sedan and coupes.
I would say it's a close close race. I raced a E46 330i from 40mph...he had two cars on me when we both floored it, I passed him at around 80mph. I only have exhaust done.