{"id":21130,"date":"2022-04-29T23:57:08","date_gmt":"2022-04-30T03:57:08","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/autosector.com\/?p=21130"},"modified":"2022-04-29T23:57:08","modified_gmt":"2022-04-30T03:57:08","slug":"bmw-220i-e30-m3","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/autosector.com\/?p=21130","title":{"rendered":"VIDEO: Is the BMW 220i Really a Modern E30 M3?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Since this new 2 Series arrived, it\u2019s been called the spiritual successor to both the original BMW 2002<\/a> and the E30 3 Series. In a lot of ways, those are valid comparisons, as the 2 Series is a small, rear-wheel drive, often four-cylinder-powered BMW coupe that still prioritizes fun over comfort. However, can it actually be compared with the E30 M3<\/a>, the homologated Touring Car for the road? That\u2019s what Auto Express reckons in this new video.<\/p>\n

In this new review, host Nicola Hume argues that the new 2 Series is the modern E30 M3, which itself is a bold statement. However, it gets even bolder, as the specific 2 Series she claims to resemble the E30 M3 is the entry-level model BMW 220i<\/a>. Surely, that\u2019s madness, right?<\/p>\n

On paper, there are admittedly some similarities. For instance, the 220i also uses a four-cylinder engine and actually makes similar power to the original M3; 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, compared to the E30 M3\u2019s 192 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. The 220i is also rear-wheel drive, has two doors, and slightly flared wheel arches. Though, that\u2019s sort of where the similarities end.<\/p>\n

The BMW 220i uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, whereas the E30 M3 used a 2.3-liter naturally-aspired, race-bred engine. The new BMW 220i is also automatic only, while the E30 M3 was manual only. It\u2019s also feature-rich, packed with tech, and has a more usable back seat. Oh, and the 220i is also several hundred pounds heavier. So it\u2019s not exactly an E30 M3 successor, spiritual or otherwise.<\/p>\n

Obviously, the BMW 220i isn\u2019t really a modern E30 M3 but it\u2019s funny to sort of point at its similarities in layout and power. The 220i is also about $100,000 cheaper than what a nice E30 M3 costs, so it might not be as exciting but it\u2019s a helluva lot cheaper.<\/p>\n