Traded my 350Z for a 330xi...

[BOnTrak]

I have the same car, 330xi, and it has loads of power, and handles like a dream. I took it out in the snow the other day though, and I have to say, i was a bit disappointed. I was able to get the back end loose way to easily, and if I turn off the DSC it handles like a RWD car, I even did some "donuts" in the parking lot. What's up with this? My family hauler minivan with AWD doesn't do that, or my old Jimmy with AWD. Is it working right, and how do I find out?

I hve an opinion, and a little bit of data ('03 330i/ZHP, and two Cincinnati light snow days) on this topic. I think BMWs, being cars equipped with wide tires and 50/50 weight distribution, realy need proper snows (with skinny tires) to handle snowy weather well. I put 205x50x17s snow tires (Dunlop M2) and I have been very pleased at how this rear driver handles in the snow so far. I was worried...I hadn't driven a rear drive in the snow since my '71 Volvo, back when I was in high school!

What has the experience of others been? Wide all season tires just don't work, especially with no big weight pressing down the drive wheels like in front drivers.

-b.