I passed a brand new, shiny black MY2K BMW 328i while walking out to my laser red 99.5 A4 2.8QMS during lunch today. They were parked next to each other. So an easy comparison could be made:

First of all, I am amazed at just how much it looks like the A4 from the side and back. The overall shape is very similar (short trunk and similar side panels and doors). It even has the chrome trim around the windows and the body painted door trim half way down. The chrome strip was a little thicker than the 2.8 though. I did like the 17" BMW sport wheels that it had, they looked a little like the Tango wheels. I wish Audi would offer a selection of different wheels at a reasonable price to the Audi crowd.

Overall, it was a nice looking car from the outside. (I test drove the new coupe a couple of weeks ago and didn't really like the overall experience, I posted the info). BMWs are a lot more common than Audis in these parts, especially the 3 series and the Z series, so no one really ever gawks at them.

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It was pretty impressive... The engine sound was really nice, steering was good and tight.. Handles very well.. I'm still not thrilled on the interior, or the rear end styling, but overall a very nice car... Just a tad overpriced.. At $40K for the one I drove.. (So much for the "bottom of the line!")


Brian
99.5 A4 2.8QMS
2000 BMW 540i-6Speed

Brian,
You do have a very nice pair of cars. I agree with your assessment, although I feel that the 328 rolls too much for a sports sedan and the interior is way too cheap and tacky for a $40k car. Now, if it was $30k or high $20ks I can see that. Compare it to an A4, and there is no way that I'd spend the premium on the BMW.

TM

I'm going to find that out, soon (I'm hoping it's a fine girl who wants to hook up)!