Can anyone tell me the difference between a bmw 330ci and an m3??

[bmwadrianm3]

Ok well i want to start a project with a 2000-2004 bmw 330ci and i want to start with the exterior for example a wide bodykit. But does anyone know is the frame work and body style between the m3 and the 330ci any different. I also know that the engine,suspension,interior,etc is different but my maine question is the exterior framwork??? CAN ANYONE HELP ME????

[Kaisake]

Exterior

Although they are similar in dimensions and appearance to the regular BMW 330Ci coupe and convertible, the M editions have some unique differences, including a distinctive bumper and spoiler ensemble, a cross-hatch center air intake and elliptical fog lights. A unique aluminum hood has subtle “power dome” accenting and allows space for the M engine below. Wheel openings are flared outward by an extra 20 millimeters to accommodate the wide tires. Gills behind the front wheel openings display an M3 emblem, and side mirrors have a distinct aero shape.

A subtle decklid spoiler is installed at the rear, above a special M bumper/apron design. The M3 has a wider front and rear track than its less-potent BMW mates and also features unique suspension and underbody components.

Third-generation M3 coupes and convertibles are identical from the front end to the A-pillar. A rising belt line imparts a visually lower stance on the convertible. M3 models ride a 107.5-inch wheelbase, measure 176.9 inches long overall and stand 54 inches tall. At 70.1 inches wide, the M3 is nearly an inch wider than the 330Ci coupe.

Source: http://research.cars.com/go/crp/rese...=&aff=national

[seventyfive]

m3 quarter panels are different. check out the lines of a 3 series and an m. you'll notice the wheel wells start at the body line that runs from nose to tail under the windows, to roll out a 3 quarter panel that far would make you run out of sheet metal.
i'm almost positive that the e36's were the last of the real production style m's. bmw would ship the "pre-m" to m-technik for the m treatment. however now that bmw owns m-technik i think they have a seperate line for m's. we have several customers, who have m3,m5,m6's etc, and when you sit an e46 m next an e36 m, you can really see the differences to their 3 series. the e36 chasis looks identical whereas the e46 is completely different (when talking about chasis and body work).
used to be if you had a 3 series you could buy all the shit you need to make an M, not so much anymore.
I will say that a 330, with suspension mods, and dumping a 3.91 rear end would give a feel for the m. but, fuck there is no way to reproduce the "power" button in the e46 m3!!!!
but the answer to your question is, if you want to buy body kits for an m3 and stick them on a 3 series, you will almost have to modify shit to get it to work.

[iseedipp]

i think it's just the badge.

[anakbabe]

Most of the diff is the qtr panels, fenders, hood and of course front and rear bumpers. But to do all that is going to be more expensive than buying a real //M.

'01 330CI ($19k - 22k) + Panels/labor ($6K - 12K) = You'll be spending $25k - $34k.

Versus '01 E46 //M3 ($25k - $32k).

just sell the 330 and buy an //M.

[andresromant]

Yeah and lets not forget......... ITS A FLIPPIN M3 THEY SPIT HOT FIRE!!!!!!

[iseedipp]

don't forget the LSD