[josehb]

Originally Posted by EXE46

Same can be said for the 330i versus M340i. G80 offers more performance and some of us will appreciate that since as good as the M340i is the G80 M3 is still the better driver's car. BTW, I am not referring to merely more power, but better handling, better steering, more grip, superior engineering etc.

In essence, in the same manner how M340i is not for everyone and some buyers don't see any value in spending extra over the 330i. The same principle applies to the M340 versus G80 M3. M3 is a special product, with great motorsport heritage, something our M340's aren't and never will be.

Well said. Pics are up as requested.

[madpistol]

I just watched that M3 video. 500 HP at the wheels.... Mother of God.

[_E90S65_]

I'm in an M340i now, having gone from an E90 M3 to an M235i to an F80 M3.

Sorry, but the M340i, like the M235i, is not an ///M-car.
It's fast as hell, and I love it. But it does not have the same visceral feel that the best-of-breed ///M cars do. It's softened, sweetened and subdued. The steering, especially. The way it delivers power is almost too easy, whereas the F80 requires a little more focus, more attention while driving because you certainly feel a lot more coming back at you… the road noise, the steering, the damping, etc.

I can only imagine how much more "to 11" the G80 is vs. the G20.
Does it justify the upcharge? F__ yeah.

[madpistol]

Originally Posted by _E90S65_

I'm in an M340i now, having gone from an E90 M3 to an M235i to an F80 M3.

Sorry, but the M340i, like the M235i, is not an ///M-car.
It's fast as hell, and I love it. But it does not have the same visceral feel that the best-of-breed ///M cars do. It's softened, sweetened and subdued. The steering, especially. The way it delivers power is almost too easy, whereas the F80 requires a little more focus, more attention while driving because you certainly feel a lot more coming back at you… the road noise, the steering, the damping, etc.

I can only imagine how much more "to 11" the G80 is vs. the G20.
Does it justify the upcharge? F__ yeah.

I don't think anyone here is claiming that the M340i is an M car. It's very fast, but in all honesty, it's a 330i with 2 more cylinders and an appearance package. I would also dare to say that the M3 is a track car; it's designed for performance, both in a straight line, but especially in the turns. The "turns" is where the M340i falls flat... but that's ok. The reason it's ok is because people that buy an M340i (if they do their research) know that the M340i is a daily driver with a more compliant suspension and less aggressive tuning than a full-on M car. That's part of it's charm. It's a fun car that will waste 98% of cars currently on the road, and it will do so in relative comfort.

The dealership that I bought my M340i from also had an M3 Competition sitting in their showroom. Said M3 Competition was $20k more than the M340i I drove off the lot with... maybe next time.

[TiMSport]

Originally Posted by _E90S65_

I'm in an M340i now, having gone from an E90 M3 to an M235i to an F80 M3.

Sorry, but the M340i, like the M235i, is not an ///M-car.
It's fast as hell, and I love it. But it does not have the same visceral feel that the best-of-breed ///M cars do. It's softened, sweetened and subdued. The steering, especially. The way it delivers power is almost too easy, whereas the F80 requires a little more focus, more attention while driving because you certainly feel a lot more coming back at you… the road noise, the steering, the damping, etc.

I can only imagine how much more "to 11" the G80 is vs. the G20.
Does it justify the upcharge? F__ yeah.

It wasn't meant nor designed to be a full on M car. I could have very easily gotten a G80 M3 but there are a couple of reasons I chose not to. I don't need a more aggressive car at this point in my life. I don't need nor want to spend more money for something I may never even take full advantage of (not tracking it). The MSRP on my M340i is damn near a G80 though ($70k). I'm also not a huge fan of the aesthetics of it, but that's subjective. Basically I'm not one to be thinking to myself "man I wish I would've gotten the G80 M3".

No way will it be a good DD. The brilliance of the M340i is how incredibly balanced it is. In the end it all depends on what you want from your car. Now I've only owned my car for about a week but every time I get behind the wheel I'm learning something new and enjoyable about it and I love it. The fact I can drive it in a relatively mild manner and my wife doesn't fully grasp the potential is a plus in my book. She has lived with me getting sports cars and other vehicles for a long period of time that weren't the friendliest for passengers.

I decided this M340i strikes the perfect balance and won't be looking back anytime soon. To each his own.

[TiMSport]

Originally Posted by madpistol

I don't think anyone here is claiming that the M340i is an M car. It's very fast, but in all honesty, it's a 330i with 2 more cylinders and an appearance package. I would also dare to say that the M3 is a track car; it's designed for performance, both in a straight line, but especially in the turns. The "turns" is where the M340i falls flat... but that's ok. The reason it's ok is because people that buy an M340i (if they do their research) know that the M340i is a daily driver with a more compliant suspension and less aggressive tuning than a full-on M car. That's part of it's charm. It's a fun car that will waste 98% of cars currently on the road, and it will do so in relative comfort.

The dealership that I bought my M340i from also had an M3 Competition sitting in their showroom. Said M3 Competition was $20k more than the M340i I drove off the lot with... maybe next time.

I know what you're trying to say but there are a couple of things I would disagree with. It's not simply a 330i with a couple more cylinders and more compliant suspension, but I think deep down you probably know that already.

Not really sure why you think the M340i falls flat in the turns. I find it to be brilliant so far. Perhaps it has to do with the tires you're running. I've also got the 19s with a staggered setup running on Michelin PS4S tires which are fantastic and they're not even fully conditioned yet. Will be soon though. Throw the beautifully designed xDrive with rear wheel bias into the mix and it's definitely good enough for me.

[EXE46]

Lol at falls flat in the turns. Must have modded a 330i M sport without the track handling package and swap prior gen B58 in, that would explain his diatribe. M340i is the highest performing non-M 3'er ever built even considering the good ole E46 ZHP. No other regular 3 series has ever been fitted with better brakes or outfitted with a torque vectoring LSD from a " real M car".

[madpistol]

Originally Posted by TiMSport

I know what you're trying to say but there are a couple of things I would disagree with. It's not simply a 330i with a couple more cylinders and more compliant suspension, but I think deep down you probably know that already.

Not really sure why you think the M340i falls flat in the turns. I find it to be brilliant so far. Perhaps it has to do with the tires you're running. I've also got the 19s with a staggered setup running on Michelin PS4S tires which are fantastic and they're not even fully conditioned yet. Will be soon though. Throw the beautifully designed xDrive with rear wheel bias into the mix and it's definitely good enough for me.

I should have qualified my post better.

The M340i falls flat in the turns compared to the M3.



Here's a video where they compared the M4 vs M440i.

All of that being said, the M340i is a WONDERFUL car in the turns. Even my car with it's lowly RWD and 18" All-seasons is still incredibly fun in a corner. It grips very well. What I meant when I said "falls flat in a corner" was really more referring to being a track capable car than anything. For just normal driving, the M340i is a ball!

[TiMSport]

Originally Posted by EXE46

No other regular 3 series has ever been fitted with better brakes or outfitted with a torque vectoring LSD from a " real M car".

Yes, I didn't even mention the LSD taken right out of the M division

I don't want to hijack this thread but man, I keep getting a deeper feel for this car as each day goes by and couldn't be happier. Whether it's breaking out the rear a bit on a sharp corner or playing around with Sport +, been a lot of fun so far.

We're just talking about the performance metrics of this vehicle, I'm just as pleased with all the entertainment and tech goodies as well. Whether it's the NAV or voice recognition features, or the pretty decent sound of the HK, or the outstanding sport seats, all good!

First time I've had a head-up display and I'm liking it a lot.

[madpistol]

Originally Posted by EXE46

Lol at falls flat in the turns. Must have modded a 330i M sport without the track handling package and swap prior gen B58 in, that would explain his diatribe. M340i is the highest performing non-M 3'er ever built even considering the good ole E46 ZHP. No other regular 3 series has ever been fitted with better brakes or outfitted with a torque vectoring LSD from a " real M car".

No... I bought a 2021 M340i. I posted pics. I’ve explained in detail my impressions of the car (especially with it being my first BMW), and I can go into great detail about my likes and dislikes of the vehicle.

Ask me anything about it. Please.

[EXE46]

Originally Posted by madpistol

No... I bought a 2021 M340i. I posted pics. I’ve explained in detail my impressions of the car (especially with it being my first BMW), and I can go into great detail about my likes and dislikes of the vehicle.

Ask me anything about it. Please.

It's all good, no worries, just get out of my way when I honk at you in Sofla...

Anyhow back to G80 M3, who else plan on upgrading when their M340i lease ends?

[wtwo3]

Originally Posted by EXE46

Anyhow back to G80 M3, who else plan on upgrading when their M340i lease ends?

Me!

But I'm not 100% decided yet.... more like 80%.

I just recently test drove an RS5 to compare. I'm crossing it off my list unless they give me a ridiculous deal (which I doubt). It's closer in performance to my m340i than it is to the G80, but for a $20k premium in price. I do get the appeal of it though, it's a gorgeous car and the suspension is VERY compliant and the seats very comfortable. It's a high performance car that's also very comfortable. Just.. the driving experience leaves a little to be desired. If it were $5k, maybe $10k more than the M340i then it would be much more compelling. But at $20k it just doesn't make sense to me personally.

Next up - will be driving the Giulia QF (and crossing my fingers that nothing malfunctions).

[TiMSport]

Originally Posted by wtwo3

Me!

Next up - will be driving the Giulia QF (and crossing my fingers that nothing malfunctions).

I think you've alluded to the elephant in the room when it comes to Alfa.

[EXE46]

Originally Posted by wtwo3

Me!

But I'm not 100% decided yet.... more like 80%.

I just recently test drove an RS5 to compare. I'm crossing it off my list unless they give me a ridiculous deal (which I doubt). It's closer in performance to my m340i than it is to the G80, but for a $20k premium in price. I do get the appeal of it though, it's a gorgeous car and the suspension is VERY compliant and the seats very comfortable. It's a high performance car that's also very comfortable. Just.. the driving experience leaves a little to be desired. If it were $5k, maybe $10k more than the M340i then it would be much more compelling. But at $20k it just doesn't make sense to me personally.

Next up - will be driving the Giulia QF (and crossing my fingers that nothing malfunctions).

Wait! Are pulling a Burcold on us lol? I have not test driven the G80 since I don't plan on early lease termination lol. G80 most likely is my next car otherwise may as well just get another M340i. As for the Audi and Alfa never gave those a thought.


Anyhow, I hear there are reliability concerns with the Alfa. Please write us a review when you do that one since I am curious as to how it drives.

PS. IS500 is calling your name lol...

[wtwo3]

Originally Posted by EXE46

Wait! Are pulling a Burcold on us lol? I have not test driven the G80 since I don't plan on early lease termination lol. G80 most likely is my next car otherwise may as well just get another M340i. As for the Audi and Alfa never gave those a thought.


Anyhow, I hear there are reliability concerns with the Alfa. Please write us a review when you do that one since I am curious as to how it drives.

PS. IS500 is calling your name lol...

lol I think he mentioned he had gotten a great deal on his. Honestly I think that's the only way I'd consider one myself. But for $90k it really doesn't make sense to me.

I like to give all potential options a chance.

I haven't driven the Giulia QF before but from what I've read it really has the trifecta - great looks, great performance, and a lot of fun to drive. The only thing really holding it back is terrible reliability. So it's gonna have to REALLY wow me to consider it. I don't think it will wow me that much over a G80..... but you never know.

Still plan to test out the new C63 when it comes out even though dropping $90k on a 4 banger pains my heart. And while I'm at it will check out the new CT4/CT5 blackwings.

And yes.... the IS500..... Would be a crime to not test it out. If for no other reason than to be serenaded by the sweet songs it sings for me. Who knows, maybe the heart prevails there.

I'm still far away from lease end (October 2022). But I have a problem...

[wtwo3]

Originally Posted by TiMSport

I think you've alluded to the elephant in the room when it comes to Alfa.

Goddamn elephant.... such a shame

[EXE46]

Haha! my lease ends August next year, an M3 is more my forte lol. Simple man, simple choice....just remember to let us know how those other cars drive. As for the IS500 I do plan on test driving it for the joyride.

[Burrcold]

Originally Posted by wtwo3

lol I think he mentioned he had gotten a great deal on his. Honestly I think that's the only way I'd consider one myself. But for $90k it really doesn't make sense to me.

I like to give all potential options a chance.

I haven't driven the Giulia QF before but from what I've read it really has the trifecta - great looks, great performance, and a lot of fun to drive. The only thing really holding it back is terrible reliability. So it's gonna have to REALLY wow me to consider it. I don't think it will wow me that much over a G80..... but you never know.

Still plan to test out the new C63 when it comes out even though dropping $90k on a 4 banger pains my heart. And while I'm at it will check out the new CT4/CT5 blackwings.

And yes.... the IS500..... Would be a crime to not test it out. If for no other reason than to be serenaded by the sweet songs it sings for me. Who knows, maybe the heart prevails there.

I'm still far away from lease end (October 2022). But I have a problem...

Did I hear my name?

Yes I did get a good deal on it, and yes I would agree that the RS5 is not a HUGE stretch from the M340i in terms of performance, although it is better in basically every metric. For me it's the sum of the parts that did it. It feels "special"...I know that is so cliché these days whenever anyone tries to justify an M car, an AMG, or an RS but I find it to be true. Not to mention that I have never owned a car that I look back at more than the RS5. Is the G80 a better overall deal, I think so. However you have to value outright performance a lot to move to one especially if you are coming from a G20 M340i.

[wtwo3]

Originally Posted by Burrcold

Did I hear my name?

Yes I did get a good deal on it, and yes I would agree that the RS5 is not a HUGE stretch from the M340i in terms of performance, although it is better in basically every metric. For me it's the sum of the parts that did it. It feels "special"...I know that is so cliché these days whenever anyone tries to justify an M car, an AMG, or an RS but I find it to be true. Not to mention that I have never owned a car that I look back at more than the RS5. Is the G80 a better overall deal, I think so. However you have to value outright performance a lot to move to one especially if you are coming from a G20 M340i.

Can't argue with you there. It's definitely a looker and certainly carries the prestige of the RS badge, so I totally get it.

And I don't blame you... this is the car I test drove - If I had this car I'd also look back at it constantly.

[TiMSport]

If it were the RS e-tron GT I'd be double taking as well.

[josehb]

I have driving/owned both cars and yes the M340 does not have that visceral feel that makes the car feel more special but it definitively does not fall flat on the turns and is not just a 330i with two more cylinders as it does include a few touches from the M division. IMO the M340 will give you 90% the performance of the M3 G80 and probably on par with the F80 which many reviewers have said, I never drove an F80 so I can comment on that.

[PrinceM340]

I do not mind that new grill at all.

Think a black M3, or any dark color m3 looks amazing.