[Sportstick]

Originally Posted by Mason Hatcher

OH MY GOD, WHO CARES? Seek therapy.

I think for that last post, he was just teasing me. It's ok...we found a semantic harmony.

[Gorst]

Only a one second downgrade to the next traffic light.

[Dinan_Rated]

Originally Posted by Gorst

Only a one second downgrade to the next traffic light.

Agreed, and that difference is significant, especially considering we're discussing a matter of seconds. Transitioning from a 4-second car to a 3-second car represents a substantial change in my opinion. I apologize if my comments seemed dismissive of the 3.0 model—no offense was intended towards those who prefer it. In fact, my daughter drives a 2022 G01 X3 3.0 as her first car and she absolutely loves it; it suits her needs perfectly. To be clear, I have a great appreciation for all BMW models, having owned 30 of them over the past 34 years.

[Dinan_Rated]

Originally Posted by Mason Hatcher

OH MY GOD, WHO CARES? Seek therapy.

This topic has been discussed extensively, so you might find it helpful to use the search function to see previous discussions. Additionally, my response might help draw more attention to your thread.

[Dinan_Rated]

Originally Posted by Mason Hatcher

Can people stop shitting in this thread? Fuckers

and no need for the profanity.

[Sportstick]

Originally Posted by Dinan_Rated

I see a few performance mods on your 228i to try and improve the performance, instead, why not opt for the M235i?

I drove both the 228 and 235 back-to-back before I decided and I did not like the nose-heavy and more muted steering feel resulting from the additional weight over the front wheels. I prefer light weight front ends. The difference in acceleration was secondary to the dynamic feel. I ordered the 228i to my spec, as I did with the current 30i. The 228i mods regarding the engine do allow it to breath more easily, but I won't do a chip. It feels very balanced to me as is. For that reason (and avoiding lithium ion hybrid batteries) I made the same choice as the OP in this thread. One second slower getting to the next red light is not important to me.

[Dinan_Rated]

Originally Posted by Sportstick

I drove both the 228 and 235 back-to-back before I decided and I did not like the nose-heavy and more muted steering feel resulting from the additional weight over the front wheels. I prefer light weight front ends. The difference in acceleration was secondary to the dynamic feel. I ordered the 228i to my spec, as I did with the current 30i. The 228i mods regarding the engine do allow it to breath more easily, but I won't do a chip. It feels very balanced to me as is. For that reason (and avoiding lithium ion hybrid batteries) I made the same choice as the OP in this thread. One second slower getting to the next red light is not important to me.

I understand your point. While I believe there's more to it than 1 sec, I'll agree for the sake of simplicity.

[Mason Hatcher]

Originally Posted by Dinan_Rated

This topic has been discussed extensively, so you might find it helpful to use the search function to see previous discussions. Additionally, my response might help draw more attention to your thread.

This thread is about my new car. Has a thread about my new car been "discussed extensively " in different threads?

[Mason Hatcher]

Originally Posted by Dinan_Rated

and no need for the profanity.

Again, there is nothing to discuss. I'm the OP, you seem confused.

[Gorst]

Originally Posted by Dinan_Rated

I understand your point. While I believe there's more to it than 1 sec, I'll agree for the sake of simplicity.

The one second comes into play when there is an infinite straight line and where the 4 cyl just can’t match it. However, if we go the famous NC Dragon Trail with 300+ curves, that’s where the lighter 30i has a distinct advantage. Of course stock production cars with same wheels and tires. And keep in mind that the 6 has a small advantage with the mild hybrid that minimizes turbo lag but also adds weight.

[Bob in IL]

Originally Posted by Mason Hatcher

This thread is about my new car. Has a thread about my new car been "discussed extensively " in different threads?

Looks great, enjoy the new X3. These types of threads usually go this route eventually. This one made it to post #9 or 10 before heading south.

[Al Dente]

I'm just back from PCD of an almost identical 30i and I love it. And I'm really amused by this discussion. For me it came down to needs and the 30i fits my needs perfectly. PLUS, if performance was what I was after, I wouldn't have started with a 4,100 pound SUV. But hey, you 6 cyl. guys have fun to the next stoplight.

[bocabimmer]

We have this discussion monthly. The results are always the same.


Once again OP, welcome and nice car.

[BMWbiker]

Originally Posted by Dinan_Rated

I disagree—there's a clear distinction between the base entry-level X3 3.0, the X3 M40i, the X3 M, and the X3 MC. Each model is designed with a specific type of driver in mind, so moving from a higher to a lower model would mean sacrificing performance and other features exclusive to the upper-tier models. While the base model is still excellent, it doesn't offer the same feel or performance as the others. It's interesting how some people feel compelled to justify purchasing the base model. I'm fortunate to have a fleet that meets all my family's needs. Enjoy your beautiful car. SORRY

It depends on what you prioritize.

If you prioritize acceleration, then the M40i is an upgrade from the 30i, and the M even more of an upgrade.

If you prioritize fuel economy, then the 30i is a slight upgrade over the M40i, and a huge upgrade over the M.

If you prioritize handling, then the M40i is an upgrade over the 30i, and the M is even more of an upgrade.

If you prioritize ride comfort, then the 30i is an upgrade over the M40i, and a significant upgrade over the M.

Etc.

[EWL5]

Congrats on the new car, OP! Fellow 4-cylinder X3 owner here! There's not too many of us in these threads but I try to "bring balance to the Force" so to speak! LOL!
I'm always jealous when a rear-wheel drive vehicle is an option (it's implied you live in a fair weather state). I feel it's nearly mandatory to get AWD where I live.

These critical comments on the 4-cylinder come and go but I think our B58 brethren sometimes need a reminder that in the end, we all share the same crappy audio, lack of acoustic glass, and uncomfortable seats (for long drives anway) so lets try to get along!

I can think of one other advantage that us 4-cylinders users have: we're more likely to get the higher-rated Dueler RFTs and don't need the higher speed rating of the much maligned Alenzas!

[Sportstick]

Originally Posted by EWL5

I'm always jealous when a rear-wheel drive vehicle is an option (it's implied you live in a fair weather state). I feel it's nearly mandatory to get AWD where I live.

Not to rub it in, but the combination of lighter weight up front, reasonable torque, and rear wheel drive gives a nimble, responsive, fun sensation of quick steering around corners and being "pushed" that one can truly feel, especially in SPORT mode.

I had survived decades of Michigan winters with rear wheel drive and Blizzak dedicated WS winter tires (not the LM performance halfway step) in case you ever want to try that, although I don't know your conditions. I never really had to challenge deep snow as the city/suburbs were usually plowed. As to hills, keep in mind, the more the upward slope, the more the rear tires are loaded and fronts unloaded, so rwd with winter tire traction goes a long way!

[LittleRocketShip]

Congrats! I’m biased but what a looker!

[EWL5]

Originally Posted by Sportstick

Not to rub it in, but the combination of lighter weight up front, reasonable torque, and rear wheel drive gives a nimble, responsive, fun sensation of quick steering around corners and being "pushed" that one can truly feel, especially in SPORT mode.

I had survived decades of Michigan winters with rear wheel drive and Blizzak dedicated WS winter tires (not the LM performance halfway step) in case you ever want to try that, although I don't know your conditions. I never really had to challenge deep snow as the city/suburbs were usually plowed. As to hills, keep in mind, the more the upward slope, the more the rear tires are loaded and fronts unloaded, so rwd with winter tire traction goes a long way!

Changing to winters are always an option but I don't have the patience for that!

When it gets bad in the tri-state area, having AWD could be the difference b/w spinning out w/the others or going straight up a steep hill! It only takes one 12-hr "stuck in ice/snow traffic" incident for me to commit!