What are the differences between the 2001 E46 330i and the 330ix. Both visually and how it drives?

Answer 1

You mean 330xi (not ix)...

Appearance wise they look the same other than the 330xi being an inch taller than the regular 330i. You will notice this by the gap in the wheel arch.

330xi is an all wheel drive vehicle, whereas the 330i is a rear-wheel drive vehicle.

The 330xi is heavier, due to the all wheel drive mechanicals, and therefore isn't as quick as the 330i. It also guzzles more gas for the same reason.

Driving the 330xi and 330i is very different. Especially when you drive them hard (on a track or autocross). The 330xi has a worse turning circle due to the presence of a drive shaft in the front wheels, limiting how much the wheel can turn. The 330xi is also more sluggish through the turns due to the extra weight.

Maintenance cost is also higher on the 330xi and the 330i, simply because there're more moving parts.

If you live in the snow belt, you will find the extra traction on the 330xi helpful. But don't ever think that having all wheel drive means you have unlimited grip or that you do not need winter tires. Having an all wheel drive vehicle on snowy roads gives you a better ability to accelerate faster while keeping the car pointed to where you want to go. But when your foot is off the pedal, or on the brakes, it behaves no better than a 2 wheel drive car.

A good set of winter tires is actually quite sufficient for even rear wheel drive BMWs unless you have to deal with really deep unplowed roads.

Answer 2

The 330ix will only come in sedan but will look no different than a normal 330i sedan. Because the ix has all wheel drive it will drive a little differently only when the traction is questionable. This make the ix a much better car for those that travel into snow. It is not a full time all wheel drive and only engauges the wheels it needs to, to prevent excessive wheel spin.

Answer 3

the ix means its all wheel drive the everything else is the same.