The BMW E46 ZHP offers a driving experience that is soon becoming obsolete in the modern market for less than $10,000.
The letters ZHP are still somewhat legendary among BMW enthusiasts because they stand for what many consider to be the last reasonably priced analog product from Bavarian Motor Works. On later model year 3 Series vehicles from the E46 generation in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the ZHP options package was offered. An E46 ZHP will currently command a modest premium on the used market, despite not being as potent or aggressive as the renowned E46 M3, since aficionados have grown to appreciate all that the ZHP has to offer.
But given that today’s models of these cars are between 15 and 20 years old, how has the package managed to stay current?
I recently had the opportunity to take the wheel of a 2004 BMW 330i with four doors, a six-speed manual transmission, and just over 151,000 kilometers on it. It’s difficult to say which part of the test drive was more enjoyable: the long straights where the E46’s upscale refinement was on display or, more significantly, the tight turns where the ZHP package’s improvements truly shone.
In This Article...
A ZHP bundle is what?
BMW just recently announced the release of the ZHP package for a select group of 435i customers. With the ZHP option, the normal BMW is essentially transformed into an enthusiast-specific model with a little bit more power, a manual transmission, sportier suspension, and some cool interior and exterior design changes. ZHP package enthusiasts are crazy about it, and we would do anything to get our dirty little hands on one.
A large portion of ZHP BMW owners identify with the “ZHP Mafia,” a group of fans.
From 2003 to 2006, the E46 3 Series was offered with the original ZHP package, which was limited to the 330i. The E46 330i ZHP did not offer an automatic transmission option, however the forthcoming 435i ZHP will. There were just six manual gears. One hell of a powertrain results from adding that to 300 more revolutions per minute of redline acceleration and 10 more horsepower (bumping it to 235). It could go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, which is speedy even by modern standards. It also had a shorter final gear ratio.
The E46 ZHP, however, received a lowered and stiffened suspension along with stiffer springs, control arm balljoints, and bushings in addition to changes to the engine and performance. Due to everything mentioned, the 330i ZHP outperformed its less powerful non-ZHP brother. It moved faster and with greater acuity. It was made for track duty, but it could also handle the weekly shopping run. Therefore, it was the ideal car for any enthusiast in terms of power and performance.
But BMW didn’t stop with just power and handling. No, there have been some significant improvements to both the interiors and the outside. A decklid spoiler and the M-Tech II body package were added to the E46 ZHP’s appearance. Additionally, it had unique wheels and some distinctive hues, including the fan-favorite Imola Red. A black headliner, an Alcantara steering wheel (which was replaced in 2005 with a perforated leather one), and Alcantara seating surfaces were among the upscale additions made to the inside. Additionally, it received a unique ZHP gear knob that is highly prized by BMW aficionados. Simply a beautiful car both inside and out.
Thus, the ZHP package improved one of BMW’s greatest vehicles ever. When a car manufacturer can do it without compromising the automobile’s essential features, it is just great. The E46 ZHP 330i still had a superb ride, but it had a little more edge to it than the normal E46. People are scouring the earth to find a used example of the beautiful antique ZHP packaging. Hopefully, the new 435i ZHP will be half as charming and desirable as the previous model.
What distinguishes a Zhp from a 330i?
Similar to how the Camaro’s 1LE package is abbreviated as “ZHP,” BMW’s “Performance Package” was exclusively offered in the US and Canada under the “ZAM” code, according to BMWBlog. From 2003 to 2005, it was available only for the BMW 330i sedan and the BMW 330Ci 2-door coupes and convertibles.
Although the E46 ZHP didn’t have the M3’s engine, calling it a “baby M3” isn’t incorrect, according to CarBuzzreports. Although Gear Patrol feels that the BMW M240i would be a better contemporary comparison. It’s not quite a M vehicle, but it’s still an improvement above the base model.
The 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine in the 330i ZHP produced 235 horsepower overall, 10 more than the basic E46. In addition, the redline was higher. Additionally, the ZHP’s suspension has been adjusted, featuring firmer springs, dampers, anti-roll bars, and control arms. Additionally, it had wider, sticker tires and a front underbody cross-brace. Although a 5-speed automatic was offered, the 6-speed manual is preferred by enthusiasts. For better acceleration, engineers gave it a short-throw shifter and a shorter final drive.
When did Zhp debut?
A tactical role-playing roguelite video game called Z.H.P. Unlosing Ranger VS Darkdeath Evilman[a] was created and released by Nippon Ichi Software. On March 11, 2010, in Japan, October 26, 2010, in North America, and November 3, 2010, in Europe, it was initially made available for the PlayStation Portable. On March 31, 2022, the Nintendo Switch version of the game was released in Japan. On May 10, 2022, it was made available globally as part of the compilation Prinny Presents NIS Classics Volume 2. A standalone Windows version was also made available on the latter date.
The tale, which draws extensively from tokusatsu, follows the exploits of the Main Character, an everyman’s silent protagonist who takes up Pirohiko Ichimonji’s role as heroic Absolute Victory Unlosing Ranger after he dies in a freak automobile accident. With the aid of the trainer Etranger, the new Unlosing Ranger must develop the strength necessary to vanquish DemonGeneral Darkdeath Evilman and save Super Baby, the world’s foretold savior. Critics gave Z.H.P. favorable reviews, praising its entertaining narrative and unique gameplay.
The E46 Zhp was released when?
Performance package (ZHP) was offered from model years 2003 to 2005 for 330i sedans and from model years 2004 to 2006 for 330ci coupes and convertibles. Along with functional and mechanical improvements, it included a variety of aesthetic modifications compared to the standard 3 series.
What is the value of a Zhp?
The Performance Package was offered by BMW near the end of the E46 3 Series’ manufacturing. The 2003 model year saw the introduction of the 330i ZHP sedan.
The Performance Package was offered by BMW near the end of the E46 3 Series’ manufacturing. The 2003 model year saw the introduction of the 330i ZHP sedan, which was produced until 2005. ZHP automobiles had a tuned engine and upgraded suspension, making them more dynamically capable than their standard counterparts. They also had slight visual changes to assist distinguish the models. The 330ci ZHP, a two-door model, was also released in 2004. 6,569 units of the 330i ZHP were produced until it was discontinued in 2005.
A: On September 29, 2021, a 2003 BMW 330i ZHP 6-Speed sold for $33,000, which is the highest sale ever recorded.
A 2005 BMW 330i ZHP Sedan sold for $5,900 on October 22, 2020, according to sales data.
Is a BMW 330ci trustworthy?
Go for the older 330; we also have the convertible 330ci; it is a great, dependable, and reasonably priced BMW to buy. good performance, dependable, and long lasting. fantastic automobiles I’d purchase this over new any day.
E46 M3 Turbo is it?
This E46 M3 is Ivan’s first BMW, which makes it even more astonishing. It has a turbo attached to the side of its S54 engine, producing an amazing 680 horsepower on E85 fuel.
What horsepower does an E46 M3 have?
The 3.2 liter inline-six engine that powered the E46 M3 produced 333 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Its top speed of 155 mph was electronically controlled, and it could go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. One of the best I6s BMW has ever produced is the one in the E46 M3. The 3.2 liter engine screams across the rev range with smooth and linear power thanks to Double VANOS variable valve timing and a redline of 7,900 rpm. Additionally, it sounds wonderful while doing it.
How much mileage can a BMW get?
Although the average BMW can travel between 100,000 and 250,000 miles, excessive mileage is actually regarded as being a little less than this. Most dealers won’t carry BMWs with mileage over 100,000, and some even think 60-80,000 is a high mileage range for these vehicles.
Therefore, you’ve reached the high mileage area if you’re looking at BMWs with between 60 and 80,000 miles on the odometer. Keep a watch on this because it demonstrates that there are high mileage BMWs available with vastly different mileage estimates.
A BMW 330i from 2003 has rear-wheel drive.
Vehicle Overview The entry-level BMW 330, which has a larger six-cylinder engine, is still an option for those who’d prefer a little bit more power than the 325 offers. The 2003 model year comes standard with a front armrest and a headrest in the middle of the backseat. The Premium Package now includes an automated headlight control and a rain sensor. With the addition of an in-dash CD player, BMW’s optional navigation system has been modified to operate on DVD.
The 330Ci coupe and convertible are also available in the lineup in addition to the four-door 330i. The 330 Series doesn’t have a wagon, in contrast to the 325. Except for the 330xi, which has all-wheel drive, other variants feature rear-wheel drive. Dynamic Stability Control is an anti-skid feature on AWD cars.
The 3 Series models have proven to be popular with first-time buyers of luxury vehicles due to the brand’s athletic image and reputation for quality. Competition from the Audi A4, Jaguar X-Type, Lexus IS 300, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class is faced by BMW’s most popular series.
On the outside, the 330 sedans and coupes resemble one another, although they don’t share any body panels. The convertible model benefits from the coupe’s look as well. The classic twin-kidney grille and four rounded headlamps of a BMW are there, but the sedan’s front end is distinctive.
The sedan is 176 inches long overall, while the coupe and convertible are 176.7 inches long. The wheelbase of all 330 variants is 107.3 inches. The coupe and convertible’s windshields are 2 degrees more tilted than the sedan’s. Power-folding tops are standard on convertible versions.
Interior The 330 sedans can accommodate five people, while the coupe and convertible only have room for two people. With twin bucket seats up front, there is plenty of room, but there is no room for passengers to extend their legs. The gauges on a standard BMW dashboard are big and simple to read. Pushbuttons for the simple stereo and climate control are conveniently located.
The 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine in BMWs combines with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission with a manual gear changing feature to produce 225 horsepower.
Airbags of the side-impact and side-curtain variety are standard for the front seats. In the sedan, rear seat side-impact airbags are an option. In low-speed collisions, the front airbags deploy with less force. It comes equipped with traction control and antilock brakes. In order to avoid skidding, BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control lowers engine power and applies the brakes.
Driving Impression Many enthusiast drivers still view BMW as the benchmark against which all other automakers are measured. BMW emphasizes the dynamic handling capabilities of their vehicles at a time when luxury amenities are being emphasized. Driving, whether it’s routine or difficult, typically involves athletic maneuvers.
Both 3 Series models deliver on their promises of energetic performance and precise handling, but the 330 does so with more vigor than the 325. However, the 325’s performance will please many owners. In fact, the 3.0-liter engine seems so powerful that some restraint is nearly necessary.
The manual shifter on a BMW is an absolute delight to use. Since the 330s clutch action is performance-oriented, it takes some experience to achieve completely smooth takeoffs.
Buyers in the Snow Belt will appreciate the availability of AWD because rear-drive BMWs may be finicky on slick terrain. Although the seats are supportive and driver-focused, getting in and out of this car isn’t as simple as it is in some other automobiles.