E46 v...E46? Tell me what you think

Some of you know that I just asked what to go with in an Audi S4 v a E46 ///M3. After test driving both cars, I decided to go with the ///M3. However, today, I was looking at insurace rates, and with an ///M3, with my record, it would be a bit high. Also, droping that much cash on my second car kicks my 'self control' gland right 'tween the uprights. However, the 325i is comming close to the end of its lease date, and even if it wasn't, I'm gettin that hankering for somethin a bit bigger. I'm ready to go after some bigger, badder cars than 1.8T Audis and VWs and Civics and the like.

So, I was thinking that insted of going for an ///M3, I could pick up the 330ic with the performance package, and drop the left over money into performance mods. So, what do you all think, would this be a half way decent idea?

MSRP for E46 330Ci ZHP (Performance Package) = $41,895
this is without metallic paint, leather, premium package etc...

330Ci ZHP nearly fully loaded (metallic paint, leather, premium package, cold weather package, xenon lights, park distance control) = $46,470

MSRP for E46 M3 (no options) = $47,000

nearly fully loaded M3 (premium, cold weather, SMG, Xenon Lights, HK Sound) = $55,820

330Ci ZHP: 235 hp
M3: 333 hp

The way I look at it, the M3 is the better deal. Im not sure how much more your insurance would be for the M3, but it would take a large chunk of change and a Supercharger to make a 330Ci as fast as the M3.

Hmmm, good point. The ///M3 that I test drove would have rolled in at around 52,000. I have to do an insurance comparison, then make my decision. Quick question though, how much did the BBS wheels set you back. No matter what I get, I'm gettin a set of BBS GTR-2 Wheels

http://www.tirerack.com/

Best place for wheels