Choosing between an E90 and F30 (320d) - BMW 3-Series (E90 E92) Forum

AdiSinghV12 · 03-29-2012, 02:19 PM

Hey fellas,
This is Aditya from India and this is my first post on this forum. I'm sure I'm going to meet some like minded petrol(diesel

) heads here and discuss about the classic E90.

I'm planning to upgrade my ride. I currently drive a Hyundai Verna and planning for an upgrade. I'm already using a X1 so that's out of the league. I'm kinda confused between the E90 and F30. I'm getting a 4 lakh INR (8000 USD) discount on the current one as the new one is around the corner. I'll be mostly using it for going to university and for street racing with friends

. I'm confused because I'm getting a very good deal on the E90 320d and as I've heard, the current one is more driver oriented than the F30. What should I do? Help me out

Thanks in advance.
Warm Regards,
Aditya Singh

rbtamms · 03-29-2012, 02:36 PM

Newer models are more efficient...

AdiSinghV12 · 03-29-2012, 02:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rbtamms

Newer models are more efficient...

You're right buddy. But efficiency is not a major concern for me here. Just wanted something real fun to drive. And I'm kinda saving $8000 which I'll have to shell out if I go for the F30. Also heard that the F30 has an electric steering and a softer suspension so won't be as much of a driver's oriented car as the E90? These are the few aspects that's confusing me. And even in terms of looks, the E90 looks more sharp? What say?

rbtamms · 03-29-2012, 03:17 PM

I agree, E90 looks more sharper...I already checked out the new F30 at my dealership & it didn't impress me in terms of looks.

tscdennab · 03-29-2012, 03:20 PM

What percentage of the price does the $8000 represent ?

The F30 has better resale value, a better interior, is larger and has the "new factor".

The E90 is sportier looking (to me

), has sportier suspension, sportier steering, but it's "outdated"...

The X Men · 03-29-2012, 03:21 PM

The F30 in sport mode still doesnt drive as nice as the E90. I just bought a E90 over the F30 due to the $9000 difference here in the states.

BMWFanatic2008 · 03-29-2012, 03:54 PM

If you were choosing between 328s, I would def go for F30 (since it's a new, better engine). But you are looking at 320d; I assume that engine didn't change between E90 and F30? Even then, I would still go for a newer model...

AdiSinghV12 · 03-30-2012, 06:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rbtamms

I agree, E90 looks more sharper...I already checked out the new F30 at my dealership & it didn't impress me in terms of looks.

Its gonna impress the back-seaters who has a chauffeur to drive rather than enthusiasts like us!

AdiSinghV12 · 03-30-2012, 06:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tscdennab

What percentage of the price does the $8000 represent ?

The F30 has better resale value, a better interior, is larger and has the "new factor".

The E90 is sportier looking (to me

), has sportier suspension, sportier steering, but it's "outdated"...

A new E90 320d used to retail at about $66,000 OTR so an $8,000 off is kinda sweet and forcing me to go for the E90 and despite all the new factor the F30 has, the E90 is more of a enthusiast's ride and has more raw muscle.

Quote:

Originally Posted by The X Men

The F30 in sport mode still doesnt drive as nice as the E90. I just bought a E90 over the F30 due to the $9000 difference here in the states.

Nice

That's what I'm gonna do buddy! Most probably!

Quote:

Originally Posted by BMWFanatic2008

If you were choosing between 328s, I would def go for F30 (since it's a new, better engine). But you are looking at 320d; I assume that engine didn't change between E90 and F30? Even then, I would still go for a newer model...

The diesel motor in the current and the upcoming 320d is exactly the same. And the current one costs $8,000 less with all those driving dynamics so......

BMWPWR · 03-30-2012, 07:05 AM

Newer is usually better although at the moment I still vote e90 for looks..

axztx · 03-30-2012, 07:17 AM

I drove an F30 328i and was not impressed. Real soft suspension and handling and I didn't like the new engine. I don't know the european/asian model line but the US version of F30 328i is a downgrade from the e90/e92 in my opinion. The technology in the F30 is real nice tho.

itsmeek · 03-30-2012, 07:54 AM

F30 looks great and it's newer tech. No brainer for me.

The X Men · 03-30-2012, 09:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by axztx

I drove an F30 328i and was not impressed. Real soft suspension and handling and I didn't like the new engine. I don't know the european/asian model line but the US version of F30 328i is a downgrade from the e90/e92 in my opinion. The technology in the F30 is real nice tho.

Also read on another forum that the F30 has a plastic oil pan and a steel front sub frame. I think BMW did a little cost savings with the F30.

AllBlackBimmer · 03-30-2012, 10:25 AM

E90 has been in production for a few years = the bugs and kinks are worked out - for the most part.

F30 is brand new and with brand new = new problems. I would never buy a first run of production year of cars if I really had the choice...

and the discount you will get for an E90 will be worth it alone - and the differences between an E90 and F30 aren't worth nearly as much as $8 g's.

AdiSinghV12 · 03-30-2012, 10:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BMWPWR

Newer is usually better although at the moment I still vote e90 for looks..

The feelings are mutual!

Quote:

Originally Posted by axztx

I drove an F30 328i and was not impressed. Real soft suspension and handling and I didn't like the new engine. I don't know the european/asian model line but the US version of F30 328i is a downgrade from the e90/e92 in my opinion. The technology in the F30 is real nice tho.

Yeah buddy, I feel the same. The F30 has an electronic steering which is really disappointing for a Bimmer enthusiast. Big no to the F30 from me and that's one of the major reason. However, it'd be easier to drive in the city I'd say.

Quote:

Originally Posted by itsmeek

F30 looks great and it's newer tech. No brainer for me.

Yeah too some extent I do agree, but those raw E90 muscle and sharpness is missing. Looks more sophisticated I reckon. To each its own but that's what I think.

Quote:

Originally Posted by The X Men

Also read on another forum that the F30 has a plastic oil pan and a steel front sub frame. I think BMW did a little cost savings with the F30.

Don't know about the highline variant but I'm pretty sure they did it on the lower editions :P

Quote:

Originally Posted by AllBlackBimmer

E90 has been in production for a few years = the bugs and kinks are worked out - for the most part.

F30 is brand new and with brand new = new problems. I would never buy a first run of production year of cars if I really had the choice...

and the discount you will get for an E90 will be worth it alone - and the differences between an E90 and F30 aren't worth nearly as much as $8 g's.

Wilco buddy. The current E90 has all the problems solved except the stiff ride quality that some owners complain. But who cares! Not worth spending $8,000 more

secretsquirrel · 03-30-2012, 11:09 AM

Wait a few months until the F30s are out in full force, then pick up a 335 for cheap.

wahooooman · 03-30-2012, 11:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by secretsquirrel

Wait a few months until the F30s are out in full force, then pick up a 335 for cheap.

+100 especially if you want to impress your friends you can give them whiplash when you floor your 335. the f30 is indeed a nice car but looks wise e90 all the way. good luck with the new purchase.

AdiSinghV12 · 03-30-2012, 12:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by secretsquirrel

Wait a few months until the F30s are out in full force, then pick up a 335 for cheap.

Quote:

Originally Posted by wahooooman

+100 especially if you want to impress your friends you can give them whiplash when you floor your 335. the f30 is indeed a nice car but looks wise e90 all the way. good luck with the new purchase.

Hmmm, wouldn't mind waiting a month or so. And yeah, I personally feel the same... Look wise E90 FTW!

AdiSinghV12 · 03-31-2012, 03:21 AM

Happy with the replies fellas. I'm convinced and would be going for the E90 320d sedan and get some mods with the $8,000 that I'm gonna save.

Thanks everyone! Cheers!

jce92 · 03-31-2012, 11:02 AM

In terms of look, e90s front end looks MUCH better than f30s front end that has headlights that streches out to the grill imo. I thought it was hideous when i saw it in the picture, and much worse in person bmw dealer. Interior is nicer though, it actually has cupholders that actually works... I dont know how much 8grands means to u, but for me, its heck lot of dough and would probably steer me for an e90 haha

AdiSinghV12 · 04-01-2012, 06:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tl2e92

In terms of look, e90s front end looks MUCH better than f30s front end that has headlights that streches out to the grill imo. I thought it was hideous when i saw it in the picture, and much worse in person bmw dealer. Interior is nicer though, it actually has cupholders that actually works... I dont know how much 8grands means to u, but for me, its heck lot of dough and would probably steer me for an e90 haha

Totally agree with you, pal! Those sharpness and curves are missing in the F30. And it wouldn't be wise to spend $8000 for just better cupholders, right? Haha! :P

I'm doing exactly what you and few others who posted above'd have done, that is, going ahead and getting an E90

coyoote79 · 09-28-2012, 09:23 AM

f30 looks like a family sedan but e90 is absolutely sportive sedan

03-29-2012, 02:19 PM	#1
AdiSinghV12 Private Drives: BMW, 525d, BMW X1 Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Mumbai - Delhi - Patna (India) Posts: 97 iTrader: (0)	Choosing between an E90 and F30 (320d) Hey fellas, This is Aditya from India and this is my first post on this forum. I'm sure I'm going to meet some like minded petrol(diesel) heads here and discuss about the classic E90. I'm planning to upgrade my ride. I currently drive a Hyundai Verna and planning for an upgrade. I'm already using a X1 so that's out of the league. I'm kinda confused between the E90 and F30. I'm getting a 4 lakh INR (8000 USD) discount on the current one as the new one is around the corner. I'll be mostly using it for going to university and for street racing with friends. I'm confused because I'm getting a very good deal on the E90 320d and as I've heard, the current one is more driver oriented than the F30. What should I do? Help me out Thanks in advance. Warm Regards, Aditya Singh Last edited by AdiSinghV12; 03-30-2012 at 10:59 AM.
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03-29-2012, 03:54 PM	#7
BMWFanatic2008 Lieutenant Drives: F30 335xi Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: New York Posts: 435 iTrader: (1)	If you were choosing between 328s, I would def go for F30 (since it's a new, better engine). But you are looking at 320d; I assume that engine didn't change between E90 and F30? Even then, I would still go for a newer model... __________________ F30 335i \| xDrive \| M Sport Line \| Estoril Blue \| Manual Transmission \| DHP \| 19" 403M wheels E92 335i \| xDrive \| M Sport Package \| Le Mans Blue Metallic (Gone)

03-30-2012, 07:54 AM	#12
itsmeek Lieutenant Drives: 2009 E90 335xi Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: DC Metro Posts: 409 iTrader: (3)	F30 looks great and it's newer tech. No brainer for me. __________________ 2009 GT-R w/700ish hp (SOLD) Incoming 997tt 2010 Range Rover Sport 1965 Mustang 302 5 speed! 2009 335ix e90 (JB4/DCI) more to come

03-30-2012, 10:25 AM	#14
AllBlackBimmer Captain Drives: 2008 328i E90 Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: Central PA area Posts: 924 iTrader: (0)	E90 has been in production for a few years = the bugs and kinks are worked out - for the most part. F30 is brand new and with brand new = new problems. I would never buy a first run of production year of cars if I really had the choice... and the discount you will get for an E90 will be worth it alone - and the differences between an E90 and F30 aren't worth nearly as much as $8 g's. __________________ 2008 328i E90 Jet Black:6MT:Premium:Sport: Dark Walunt/all black interior:Xenon:19" Beyern mesh wheels:35% Tint: DEPO Blacklines

03-31-2012, 11:02 AM	#20
jce92 aw ftw Drives: 09' e92 328xi Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: NYC Queens Posts: 131 iTrader: (1)	In terms of look, e90s front end looks MUCH better than f30s front end that has headlights that streches out to the grill imo. I thought it was hideous when i saw it in the picture, and much worse in person bmw dealer. Interior is nicer though, it actually has cupholders that actually works... I dont know how much 8grands means to u, but for me, its heck lot of dough and would probably steer me for an e90 haha __________________ e92 xDrive AW & Coral Red/ Premium Package/Sports Package/ Cold Weather Package/Navi/ 6 SPEED! automatic.. LUX/Black Line/OEM Mtech Rear/Carbon Fiber Emblems/Carbon Fiber Mirrors/JL Motoring Carbon Fiber CSL Trunk/Black vinyl Roof/Gloss Black Kidney/Tint/Coded/Still in Process...

03-29-2012, 02:36 PM	#2
rbtamms Captain Drives: 2011 E90 and 2013 F25 Join Date: May 2011 Location: Nor Cal Posts: 670 iTrader: (2) Garage List 2011 328i [0.00]	Newer models are more efficient...

03-29-2012, 03:17 PM	#4
rbtamms Captain Drives: 2011 E90 and 2013 F25 Join Date: May 2011 Location: Nor Cal Posts: 670 iTrader: (2) Garage List 2011 328i [0.00]	I agree, E90 looks more sharper...I already checked out the new F30 at my dealership & it didn't impress me in terms of looks.

03-29-2012, 03:20 PM	#5
tscdennab Banned Drives: BMW 335i Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Europe Posts: 1,811 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 BMW [3.12]	What percentage of the price does the $8000 represent ? The F30 has better resale value, a better interior, is larger and has the "new factor". The E90 is sportier looking (to me ), has sportier suspension, sportier steering, but it's "outdated"...

03-29-2012, 03:21 PM	#6
The X Men Major Drives: 2012 535xi 2013 X3 35i Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: MA Posts: 1,256 iTrader: (0)	The F30 in sport mode still doesnt drive as nice as the E90. I just bought a E90 over the F30 due to the $9000 difference here in the states.

03-30-2012, 07:05 AM	#10
BMWPWR Private First Class Drives: e92 335i Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Melbourne Posts: 142 iTrader: (0)	Newer is usually better although at the moment I still vote e90 for looks..

03-30-2012, 07:17 AM	#11
axztx Second Lieutenant Drives: 08 e92 328xi Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: NJ Posts: 207 iTrader: (4)	I drove an F30 328i and was not impressed. Real soft suspension and handling and I didn't like the new engine. I don't know the european/asian model line but the US version of F30 328i is a downgrade from the e90/e92 in my opinion. The technology in the F30 is real nice tho.

03-30-2012, 11:09 AM	#16
secretsquirrel Lieutenant Colonel Drives: 335i nFifty4LiFe Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: land of the squirrel Posts: 1,618 iTrader: (2)	Wait a few months until the F30s are out in full force, then pick up a 335 for cheap.

03-31-2012, 03:21 AM	#19
AdiSinghV12 Private Drives: BMW, 525d, BMW X1 Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Mumbai - Delhi - Patna (India) Posts: 97 iTrader: (0)	Happy with the replies fellas. I'm convinced and would be going for the E90 320d sedan and get some mods with the $8,000 that I'm gonna save. Thanks everyone! Cheers!

09-28-2012, 09:23 AM	#22
coyoote79 Registered Drives: 2012 3.20d space grey Join Date: Nov 2011 Location: Turkiye Posts: 4 iTrader: (0)	f30 looks like a family sedan but e90 is absolutely sportive sedan

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