Quote:
Originally Posted by DanG
Come on guys. The manufacturers 0-60 speeds aren't even close.
|
Each car serves a different buyer, but I've got to admit (as a previous 135i owner), the 228i is more attractive to me than the old 128i was. The N20 engine is incredible. We waited for the N20 update to the X3, and I'm glad we did. The 228i doesn't get down and go quite like the M235i, but it's still plenty quick.
The difference is that the N20 is two cylinders shy of the N55, and has lower weight and better distribution as a consequence. This gives the 228i a different balance. The weight is trimmed from the most important area of the car too; the very front.
When the F30 hit the streets, there was a big hub-bub about a comparo between the 335i and the 328i where the 328i won. All the HP junkies couldn't believe it. How could the car with more horsepower lose? It all came down to the total package, and the price. The 328i had plenty "good enough" performance, with better handling, at a lower price point.
A 228i and M235i spec'd the way I'd order either car (with the 228i up-spec'd to match the equipment of the M235i), the savings is dead on $4,100. That equates to around $50/month. For that money, I want the extra go juice of the N55. I've driven both, and while the difference is noticeable back-to-back, it's not enough for me to give up the lovely sound of the I6 turbo. I understand how someone could easily choose the 228i though. If your focus is on agility, the lighter nose of the 228i does the trick. It reminds me of my MkV GTI.
EDIT: Corrected the difference between the 228i and M235i for my spec. Forgot the brakes!