Hang on, because it's the driving that makes the 328i worth the price of admission. BMW's straight six engines have always been among the world's best, and the one in the 328i is so smooth and free-revving that you'll probably want to keep it spinning near its 6200-rpm redline all day long. Yet for all its high-rev power, the 328i is surprisingly strong at lower engine speeds. BMW's new Double VANOS variable-valve timing means plenty of torque -- the power that makes a car jump when you hit the gas -- from idle to the far end of the tachometer.Reverse on the 328i's manual shifter lies to the left of first gear, and it's a little too easy to engage reverse when you want first at a stop light. Beyond that, gear changing is a smooth, satisfying operation, and, boy, is this sedan fast. The 328i hits 60 mph from a stop in 6.4 seconds, making it a benchmark in its class. The 328i is a very stiff car, in the instance where "stiff" describes a rigid body that feels like it's carved from a single piece of granite. The stiff structure allows very little irritating vibration into the 328i's cabin, and even less in the way of squeaks and rattles. It also allows the suspension to work at its best. As a result, the 328i delivers steering response that's more in line with a true sports car than the typical sedan. It handles curves with aplomb, and keeps its composure, always gripping, through the most aggressive cornering maneuvers. It also has two BMW trademarks polished to a luster: brakes that stop the car right now, and a high level of ride comfort for its cornering capabilities. The ride is anything but stiff. It's firm and well controlled, to be sure, but the 328i is never rough or jarring over typical bumps or potholes. Enthusiast drivers prefer rear-wheel drive because, in a car with a good power-to-weight ratio like the 328i, they can actually steer the car by sending a burst of power to the back wheels. The payback for this added element of control can be a skittish rear end on slick surfaces, or a condition known as oversteer. Fortunately, the 328i's electronic traction control takes the stress out of wet or snowy conditions by automatically controlling rear-wheel spin for the driver. One of the best things about the 328i is that passengers can ride in smooth, quiet comfort, nearly oblivious to the great time the driver is having.
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