Do they offer M3 SMG on the 2005 330ci's?
- Thread starter Theone
- Start date
I'm not sure. Before I originally responded to your post, I checked the BMW web site and they just don't specify anymore (they used to specify SMG II for the M3 and SMG I for the 330Ci). Perhaps BMW isn't specifying anymore because people are hesitant to go with SMG I when there is an SMG II available for a different car, and I believe in reviews, nobody really liked SMG I.
I think that this is still the case (330Ci gets SMG I and M3 gets SMG II) because the option for it on the 330Ci is only $1,500 whereas it's $2,400 for the M3.
I think that this is still the case (330Ci gets SMG I and M3 gets SMG II) because the option for it on the 330Ci is only $1,500 whereas it's $2,400 for the M3.
All the magazines basically trash the SMG on the Z4 and 3 series. They all love the one on the M3. I think one of them mentioned that they wished the test car had the M3 SMG which leads me to believe they are different. BMW won't say what the Z4 and 3 series (well, 5 and 6 series too) have but I suspect it's the SMG I since the reviews aren't exactly glowing.
i wasn't a big fan of an option of 2k+ that takes fun out of shifting, so i didnt' really pay too much attention, but i don't think i've come across a pub that said SMG I rocked! maybe they'll stick in SMG ii for a regular 3 when the new 3er comes out, (at which point, they'll prolly doll up the m3 w/ a better SMG) i haven't heard anything like that for the current e46.
i think the reason why they don't offer it for smaller hp regualr 3s may have something to do w/ smoothness of the whole setup. while they are awesome at quick shifting, 80ms for the fastest setting in smg ii, they are supposedly jurky around town in auto mode. since they are manu-matics, unlike your vanilla sliptronics. m3 buyers know what they want. some of your average 330 buyers may not want that hard edge.. (just a guess..)
i think the reason why they don't offer it for smaller hp regualr 3s may have something to do w/ smoothness of the whole setup. while they are awesome at quick shifting, 80ms for the fastest setting in smg ii, they are supposedly jurky around town in auto mode. since they are manu-matics, unlike your vanilla sliptronics. m3 buyers know what they want. some of your average 330 buyers may not want that hard edge.. (just a guess..)
All magazines trash BOTH SmG's for some reason. I have driven them and they are WONDERFUL transmissions. You have to drive it yourself to really know. They are just as fun because you feel like you are in "race mode." Then when you hit the 4 o'clock traffic, no half-clutchin it to move 2 inches for 3 miles!!
I have a 330ci with SMG I and I really like it. There is no problem with smoothness once you get the hang of it. I'm sure that after just one day, everybody who knows hoe to drive a stick, can learn how to shift at least as smoothly as with a regular tranny. The auto mode I admit is far from satisfying, but then if you are interested in an auto transmission, you want a sliptronic anyway.
I have not tried a SMG II, but from what I have heard, you are able to have a lot more control of shift speeds. The SMG I has two manual modes, sports and regular. In sports mode, the shifts are faster but less smooth then in regular mode. The SMG II has six different programs, which basically vary how fast your gears are changed, and apparently it has the ability to adjust to your style of driving. It also has additional features such as up-hill start, IMO for drivers who are not familiar with operating the e-brake.
In short, I love the SMG I and have no regrets about getting it. If the SMG II is even better, then I feel comfortable recommending it, even though i have never driven one.
I have not tried a SMG II, but from what I have heard, you are able to have a lot more control of shift speeds. The SMG I has two manual modes, sports and regular. In sports mode, the shifts are faster but less smooth then in regular mode. The SMG II has six different programs, which basically vary how fast your gears are changed, and apparently it has the ability to adjust to your style of driving. It also has additional features such as up-hill start, IMO for drivers who are not familiar with operating the e-brake.
In short, I love the SMG I and have no regrets about getting it. If the SMG II is even better, then I feel comfortable recommending it, even though i have never driven one.
