The other BIG thing is whether you go auto or manual. The 130 auto only takes 0.2 off the 0-100 (6.1 vs 6.3) whereas the 3 series seems to loose the best part of a second!!

I've had my 130 for 3 weeks now and for the first time booted it in first and second the other day and it just kept going.....it's also great on corners - I'd argue the chassis is better than the E90.....seats are great too...

Put your foot down in a 323 and you'll be waiting forever for something to happen (again, I have to say don't get an auto!!!!!). I haven't been in the diesel but having had a couple of sixes, I'd pay extra just for the sound and ability to rev it lots....

I even get a grin every time I start the 130 as you get a wonderful exhaust note blip (I can't say that I get a grin when i start my 320!!!!!!). Those are the little things that make a car special IMHO. It's like listening to that flat four sound from a (stock) STi...music to the ears...