[Dark Star]

Hey Folks,

I've been searching around, but haven't quite been able to find anything comparing these two models. I have a 2017 330i lease that is due to be returned and my auto broker has a 2013 335i on a transport headed here from California.

It seems like the main differences between these two is the LCI updates, engine, and suspension. I'm curious if anyone here has had the opportunity to drive both and can give some feedback on how they drive differently. It seems like the N55 is a pretty good engine, but any maintenance stuff I should keep an eye out for during the inspection? It's got about 70,000 miles on it and the sport (non-m) trim according to the VIN

[njdangelo]

They should drive as similarly as two cars could with a different engine and suspension as they share a chassis lol. Obviously the 335 is much faster. the N55 does have its weak points and at 70,000m you're due for a transmission service, new plugs, new coils, etc. You'll also want to make sure the charge pipe has been upgraded as those break like kit-kats. The suspension on f3x chassis seems to wear quicker than one would like so again at that mileage you'll probably notice some bushings/bearings need to be replaced. Additionally the car will be due for a timing service in 30k. It comes down to what you want in a car I guess. I bet you could find lower mileage 335s for cheap as their price has come down dramatically with off lease 340i on the market now.

[F30RiK]

Timing service ? It's a timing chain and the N55 is not prone to timing chain issues like the n20

[thejeremyman9]

Originally Posted by Dark Star

Hey Folks,

I've been searching around, but haven't quite been able to find anything comparing these two models. I have a 2017 330i lease that is due to be returned and my auto broker has a 2013 335i on a transport headed here from California.

It seems like the main differences between these two is the LCI updates, engine, and suspension. I'm curious if anyone here has had the opportunity to drive both and can give some feedback on how they drive differently. It seems like the N55 is a pretty good engine, but any maintenance stuff I should keep an eye out for during the inspection? It's got about 70,000 miles on it and the sport (non-m) trim according to the VIN

I would confirm if the 335 is EWG or PWG. If its EWG, it has the better turbo and newer rod bearings. The other critical thing is it's past history. If you do not have 100% documentation for all services being done on time, stay away. Also its imperative you know if it has been tuned or modded in its past life. That's why i would never buy a used BMW that's not CPO. In addition to normal mainteance, you will want to check if OFHG, oil pan gasket, and/or VCG have been done. If not, they will almost certainly need to be soon.

The N55 is a very solid platform overall, but IMO EWG gives you a much better starting point than PWG if you want to modify. The engines are very durable if maintained properly and can driven well into the 100k+ range even tuned+FBO.

I have a 2015 335i with FBO mods (and more), tuned, etc, but stock turbo. Ive driven a 2020 330i msport more than once as a loner car. The 330i handled decently (with msport and good tires), but is painfully slow coming from my car. It also had horrendous turbo lag. If you are looking for something to mod for performance and enjoy driving spiritedly, the N55 is a good place to go, but knowing the history is important to ensure a long life.

[Dark Star]

Thanks for the info everyone. It doesn't sound like I'll need to be inspecting anything other than what I anticipated. I'll want to tune it eventually, but will probably wait at least 6 months so a charge pipe is definitely on the docket. It's got a stellar service history, nothing too concerning except the front got touched up at some point. Should be arriving on transport tomorrow so I'll be posting here more once I get to enjoying the extra HP

[njdangelo]

Originally Posted by F30RiK

Timing service ? It's a timing chain and the N55 is not prone to timing chain issues like the n20

Maybe 100k is a little premature but I wouldn't go much past that. Just not worth the risk IMO. I know some people will say 150k but I just think about the damage that happens immediately if the tensioner goes or something. I've been always been a bit preemptive with the timing chain or belts on my car for that reason.