325Ci in Snow

[jack325]

Hi

Can anyone tell me how the 325Ci performs in snow conditions? Should I avoid using it if it's snowing? I have a 2004 325Ci. I know it has things like DSC but it's rear wheel drive which usually doesn't get good traction in snow.

Any feedback is appreciated, thanks!

 

[codex57]

Get yourself some snow tires, especially if you have the sports package.

 

[web17]

I have a 525i with the DSC and put some Blizzak snow tires on this winter at the recommendation of several people. It was the best thing I could have done - I have had no problems getting through the snow this winter. Put on some snows and you will be fine.

 

[Tom]

I agree with the above statements, get yourself some snow tires on some cheap rims and you should be good to go.

 

[Average Jae]

welcome aboard Jack!

while it is true that rwd is prolly the worst performer in the snow among 3 set ups, there are other factors that needs to be thrown into the equation. first is the tire. imo the most important component of the car that is most oft over looked. snows are good, all seasons are marginal, but it depends on the brand. they are important, not because of the go, but more important for the stopping grip.

second, weight distro between the front and the rear. bmws are pretty good in this regard w/ near 50/50 split. where are most american muscle rwd cars have a heavy front and light rear, which makes for easier spinning out in the snow.

anyway, if you have a solid winter car, i'd take that around. you won't have to invest in the snow/rim combo (you should always get the combo, it'll be cheaper in the long run.) but more importantly, you won't be putting your new ride at risk on slippery snow conditions, not ot mention salt and other crap that's horrible for your car.

 

[epj3]

Between my 325is with crappy tires (cooper all seasons), and my current 535i with decent all seasons (continentials), I never once had problems in the snow. Given both did have a LSD which helps an awful lot - you shouldn't have problems with decent snows or all seasons.

 

[jack325]

so you would all recommend NOT driving in the snow with the performance tires and sport rims?

 

[MrElussive]

so you would all recommend NOT driving in the snow with the performance tires and sport rims?

Exactly. It seems like we are being repetitive and perhaps almost "coming on too strong" but it is only because we all know what it is like to drive with performance tires in the snow. Summer/performance tires do not have any tread design to get traction from the snow, so the tire does not even TRY to "get a grip."
You would pose a good argument if you are like me in that you never HAVE to drive in the snow or if you always have another car available. But last week-end I was out later than I thought I would be and we had a very light snowfall (I checked the weather before I left, and a snowfall was predicted at around 3AM, I didn't think I would be out that late, so I took my normal car). No big deal but for me it was an absolute nightmare. I BARELY made it home and it took VERY cautious driving and some luck on my side that got me home safely. Do not risk your personal safety and your car's safety if you plan to do any kind of snow driving ni the winter. Get yourself some snow tires for winters and you'll have a grin on your face every time it snows, rather than a panic attack.