Even more performance coming from BMW

With all the concepts and show cars at the Los Angeles Auto Show, last month, there was an introduction from BMW that was eagerly awaited by many fans of the marque.

The all-new Performance Package for the 2003 330i Sedan made its debut. The 330i sedan continues to win comparison test after comparison test on the strength of its performance and handling prowess. Never being a company to leave well enough alone, the introduction of the Performance Package will raise the driving experience of the 3 Series Sedan to an even higher standard.

The 330i Performance Package has been created exclusively for the U.S. market for enthusiasts by enthusiasts at BMW Individual, a small department within BMW.

Modifications to the 3.0-liter in-line six-cylinder engine, which include different camshafts and performance-modified Digital Motor Electronics, yield a 10 horsepower increase to 235. For the first time in a 330i, a six-speed manual transmission will be standard. With the Performance Package it will include a short-throw shifter. The package also includes a shorter final drive ratio. The benefits of these modifications are immediately apparentas soon as you drive it–the 330i with a Performance Package will accelerate from 0 - 60 mph in six seconds, about half a second faster than a standard 330i. To match the straight-line performance a new sports suspension, more aggressively tuned than the 330i’s standard sport suspension, is mated to 18-inch wheels with mixed-size performance tires. In addition to the wheels and tires, the exterior of the 330i Performance Package is distinguished by its Aerodynamic Package, black headlight trim, high gloss shadowline trim and a new exhaust that not only appears but also sounds more aggressive.

The look and feel of the interior has been refined with cloth and Alcantara sport seats matching the Alcantara sport steering wheel. An anthracite headliner and black cube aluminum trim complete an ambiance tailored to the enthusiast. Silver cube aluminum trim is optional. The instrumentation includes red needles while the tachometer reflects the modified engine’s 300 higher rpm limit. Production of the 330i Performance Package will begin next month, with the first cars arriving at BMW centers in April.