How can I reduce the engine/exhaust noise ??

[Simon Bishop]

Five weeks ago I bought a new BMW 330i with the M package and just about every other conceivable extra. Rather foolishly (understatement) I did this without taking the car for a test drive. I based my decision to buy on my life long love of BMWs and the fact that every one I had been driven in was remarkably quiet, despite its power. I was buying my dream car, or so I thought.

Imagine my horror when I heard the noise that my 330i makes. Every touch on the throttle results in the most disgusting growling roar. BMW are being most unhelpful, claiming that the noise is not only normal, but generally highly sought after.

Now, I realise that this was totally my mistake, and I also realise that most of you reading this probably wish yours made even more noise than it already does, but that is not the point here. I am desperate to find a solution which will recuce the engine/exhaust noise. If anybody has any sensible ideas, please suggest them (I've already had "buy earphones" and "buy a Lexus", so don't even go there).

Thanks in advance for any advice.

um, your crazy, dont post shit like that!
it hurts really.

[Evo]

Alrighty Simon,
I think the anonymous emailer was pretty clear about the position of most 330i owners. You may have communicated the single biggest paradox of the year. You chose to spend $42k on a performance car without driving it? Ouch. One of the things you ought to realize about BMW is the fact they engineer the engine sound. It is deliberate. It is beautiful. I would be willing to bet most 330i owners would choose to hear their engine growl over hearing their stereo (this includes the Harmon Kardon system-which sounds excellent by the way). You have asked a group of car buyers who have chosen to spend a minimum of $10k more (325i vs 330i) for a car that doesn't look much different than the cheaper version.

What BMW's have you owned before? I have driven almost every current model, and am not familiar with a "Lexus" sounding engine yet. Shame on you Simon.

[FRANCO]

Yeah, Evo is right. Most people who own other car makes other than BMW spend hundreds of dollars trying to get the engine noise to sound like our 330s. The best Honda owners can come to is that annoying buzz sound.

[Jenny]

I love the sound of my engine....

My 330i exhaust note or my wife...hmmm....

Hey Simon,

I really think that you should upgrade the exhaust to the Dinan Package. It is only about $1100 and I think that you will really enjoy the exhaust note.

Better yet, why don't you send me the $1100 and I'll just put it in the bank and laugh all the way home. Since you lack the common sense to drive before you buy, I will be expecting a reply requesting my mailing address.

Remember money order, not a check.

[Lungkong]

You have two options, sell your vehicle or accept that low growl of the 225 hp engine. I do not think you will have a problem finding any buyers for your BMW.

[CLiverman]

You're kidding right?
1) You don't like the exhaust sound?
2) You didn't drive the car first?

Gez, you sound more like a Audi driver.