Differences Between BMW 320i and 320li
3 Answers
The differences between the BMW 320i and 320li are as follows: The BMW 320i is the standard wheelbase version, while the BMW 320li is the long wheelbase version. These two models have different wheelbases, with the long wheelbase version offering more rear passenger space. The wheelbase of the BMW 320i is 2851 mm, while that of the 320li is 2961 mm. The BMW 3 Series is a B-segment sedan under the BMW brand. Production location: The 320li is domestically produced, while the 320i is imported. Dimensions: The body lengths differ. The 320i measures 4719mm in length, 1827mm in width, and 1459mm in height, whereas the 320li measures 4829mm in length, 1827mm in width, and 1463mm in height. Top speed and 0-100 km/h acceleration: The 320li has a top speed of 226 km/h and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 9.1 seconds. The 320i has a top speed of 222 km/h and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 9 seconds. Exterior styling: The 320li features more chrome trim elements. Wheelbase: The BMW 320li is the extended version, with both the body length and wheelbase increased by 110mm. Long-wheelbase models are derived from standard-wheelbase versions. The longer wheelbase provides a more spacious and comfortable interior, as well as a more imposing appearance, but sacrifices some of the handling agility of the standard wheelbase. In terms of handling performance, a shorter wheelbase results in a more compact body, smaller turning radius, and better obstacle-crossing capability, thus offering superior and more agile handling. Handling consists of three main components: the accuracy of the steering wheel and steering system, the support of the chassis and suspension system, and the engine power and transmission logic. However, the difference between short and long wheelbases is generally not noticeable for average drivers.
For those who've driven both the older 320i and current 320Li, the most noticeable difference is the 320Li's shockingly spacious rear legroom. With a 110mm longer wheelbase than the standard wheelbase version, crossing your legs is effortless. When helping a friend pick up their car last year, I noticed the Li's rear doors are significantly longer, and the rear seats are more generously padded - even child seats don't feel cramped. Both trunks are similarly sized, but the Li's 4:2:4 split-folding rear seats offer more flexibility. For city driving, I'd recommend the Li - it comes standard with a leather steering wheel featuring paddle shifters, making stop-and-go traffic less tiring. The standard wheelbase version has noticeably sharper steering, though the difference isn't substantial for daily commutes.
As someone who has tried track days, let me talk about the driving differences. The standard-wheelbase 320i is like an athlete in a tight suit, with excellent rear-end followability and no hesitation when taking S-curves. Last month at the gymkhana test drive, the standard-wheelbase version could achieve a lap time of 57 seconds out of the box, while the Li was about 1.5 seconds slower. Don't be fooled by the identical 184 horsepower output—the shorter front suspension means the 320i only needs 2.4 turns lock-to-lock, which is especially noticeable when parking or taking sharp turns in garages. Both models start with 17-inch wheels, but the Li's run-flat tires add 7 kg in weight, something you can feel during spirited driving.
