19 Oct 06
Arguably there are two Coupe models that can be described as hot.
First there is the 330 Ci Clubsport introduced in February 2002, which, on the face of it, is an M3 on the cheap. On the outside you notice the low-down sports suspension stance and the 18" M double-spoked alloys. It was available in just three colours, Titanium Silver, Velvet Blue and Estoril Blue. Inside is where more work was done, as 20kg of sound insulation was stripped away, so that you can hear the standard 330 Ci engine better and possibly go a bit quicker. It is hardly a stripped-out interior, though, as the specification includes leather and Alcantara sports seats, stubby M gear lever, aluminium trim and etched door kickplates. Of course it will do 155mph and get to 60mph in just over six seconds.
Then there is the diesel-powered 330 M Sport version. The basic facts are that the top speed is 151mph and the 0-60 time is 7.0 seconds, which certainly isn't shabby. Plus it has loads of M Sport details including seats, alloys, rear spoiler and interior trim. Oh yes, and it will do 42.8mpg overall. It's the perfect combination of hotness and sensibleness.
