10k Flash: 2004 BMW 330i ZHP 6-spd
BMW’s E46 generation 3 series was sold from 1999 to 2005 and if you wanted the hot M3 version it was only available in 2 door trim. Folks with little kids or the desire for a sedan had to settle for a regular 3-series, at least until the ZHP came out in 2004. The ZHP added a 6 speed manual trans, engine tuning, suspension work and some M-sport badges to the 3 series sedan at a price considerably less than the M3. This 2004 BMW 330i ZHP 6-spd sedan is for sale on ebay currently bidding for $6,600 reserve-not-met with a buy it now of $10,900.
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| Cosmetically it is hard to tell a ZHP from the standard 330i, but it does have a standard M-tech II body kit and 18 inch staggered width type 135 wheels. |
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| The ZHP is equipped with the M54B30, a 3.0 liter inline 6 putting out 235 horsepower (10 more than the standard 330i). It is attached to a 6 speed manual transmission -the first time BMW put a 6 speed into a non-M car. |
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| This ZHP has a fair amount of miles on it, and the lack of interior photos makes you wonder what it looks like on the inside. |
We like the ZHP because of the performance offered for the price point. Today a 2004 ZHP is a decent competitor to a nice E36 M3 in terms of performance, but is slightly newer and offers a more refined ride. Personally we will wait until the E90 M3 depreciates to our cheapskate price range, but if you are considering a non-M 3-series, the ZHP is a good bet.
See another cheap 3-series with legs? email us here: tips@dailyturismo.com
Had this in Imola Red. Compared to a 330i coupe I had immediately before this it was fantastic. Handling was very tight, even if the ride was a bit firm over sharp bumps. I replaced this car with an e92 in 2007 but still missed the older car's road feel and interior quality.