My car turns 5 years old this month….where does the time go! I managed to put 72,000 miles on it which turns out to be just under the national average of 15K a year. This has been a great car and it took me a really long time to initially find it. I ended up locating it in North Carolina. I flew there, bought it, and drove it home!
What makes this BMW 330i so unique, is the “infamous” performance package aka “ZHP.”
The performance package was a limited option given to E46 models from 2003 to 2005.It included various aesthetic changes as well as performance enhancements. It received the “M-Tech II” bodykit, 18″ style 135 wheels with 255/35/18 performance tires, and black high gloss window trim. The interior included sports seats, an alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, and a carbon fiber styled “cubed” interior trim. The instrument gauge cluster was also modified with red needles and silver gauge ring accents.
Performance wise, the ZHP obtained BMW’s performance range camshafts and DME tuning to increase Horsepower/Torque and the engine redline from 6,500RPM to 6,800RPM.Suspension was modified over the standard sports package with firmer springs and shock absorbers, larger anti-roll bars, steel front control arm bushings, and a lower ride height. The car also received a shorter gear ratio and a 6 speed manual transmission which allows for faster acceleration.
The result is a perfect balance of handling, acceleration, steering feel, and engine/exhaust sound. The car is such a pleasure to drive, and it is undisputed that no 3-series model has come out since, that has a better overall road feel.
Happy 5th Birthday!
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