The BMW 428i, despite being built on the same platform as the 328i, and carrying the same engine under the hood, feels somewhat different on the road.
The main difference between the two vehicles is that the BMW 328i is a 4-door sedan, whereas the BMW 428i is a 2-door car. If you want a sporty ride, pick the 428i. If you want a good all-round BMW, the 328i is a better value.
General comparison of the BMW 328i and BMW 428i
Despite being a 4-door coupe, the BMW 328i is slightly smaller than the BMW 428i. It is also a lot taller, which means it provides a lot more headroom for the passengers in the back. That makes the 328i way more suitable for a family. Of course, having back doors also helps a great deal, as constantly having to push backrests forward might be a nuisance for every 428i owner.
If you have a baby and need to install a baby seat in the back, the BMW 328i should be your go-to choice, since the BMW 428i makes it almost impossible to do so.
Another great argument in favor of the BMW 328i is that BMW 428i’s doors are very bulky and might be hard to fully open next to other cars. If you live in a densely populated area and you have trouble finding a parking spot, the BMW 328i is a better choice.
BMW 328i (F30) Dimensions
Length: 181.9 – 189.9 inches (4,620 – 4824 mm)
Width: 71.3 – 72 inches (1,811 – 1,828 mm)
Height: 56.3 – 59.4 inches (1,430 – 1,508 mm)
Wheelbase: 110.6 inches (2,810 mm)
Doors: 4
BMW 428i (F32) Dimensions
Length of 182.6 inches (4,638 mm)
Width of 71.9 inches (1,825 mm)
Height of 54.2 – 54.7 inches (1,377 – 1,389 mm)
Wheelbase of 110.6 inches (2,810 mm)
Doors: 2
Engine and driving experience
The two vehicles operate with the same exact engine and the same wheelbase platform. The main difference in terms of driving experience between the two is the fact that the BMW 428i is a lot lower than the BMW 328i, making it better positioned on the road, with a sportier feel.
The BMW 428i feels more aggressive, not only on the outside, but also in terms of driving. Both vehicles can be equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission and an 8-speed automatic.
Exterior differences
The BMW 428i features frameless door glass and much lower rooflines, which gives it a sportier and sexier look overall. The front lights look more aggressive, and the grille is slightly larger.
The other main difference of exterior is the 2 and 4-door difference. Internet reviews and statistics show that although many people have decided between these two vehicles, the majority often picks the 4-door BMW 328i for the comfort it provides. Having a 4-door vehicle can be a great advantage. Even if you are living alone, it might help packing up some luggage in the backseat.
Interior & features
Talking about the interior, the BMW 3-Series usually comes with a standard full-color head-up display that allows you to drive without taking your eyes off the road if you need to check on the infotainment system. Whereas, in the BMW 4-Series models this is an optional add-on.
On the other hand, the BMW 428i comes with a sunroof as a standard, which is optional if you decide to choose the BMW 328i.
Both vehicles are equipped with the standard blind-spot detection sensors, cruise control, and active driver assistance. Rear cameras and parking sensors are also standard in these models. The two models also have adjustable seats and steering wheels, as you would expect from high-end BMWs.
The final verdict
If you prefer driving on your own and you are looking for a sportier, more aggressive-looking vehicle, the BMW 428i would be the better choice for you. That is, of course, if you do not mind driving a 2-door car.
The BMW 328i, on the other hand, still boasts the same power under the hood and is quite fast. At the same time, it allows you to be able to carry passengers and luggage comfortably. It is a much better choice for families or drivers who often drive around with more than one passenger on board.
Important things to know about 328is and 428is
Has the BMW 328i been discontinued by BMW?
In 2018, BMW changed the name of BMW 328i to BMW 330i. There were no major changes in the exterior, interior, or engine capabilities, regardless of the different nomenclature. The same has also happened with the BMW 428i, it was renamed to 430i for marketing purposes.
Are BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series expensive to maintain?
All BMW models are expensive to maintain, compared to most other vehicles. It’s very common to pay anywhere between $1,000 and $1,500 per year to repair, service, and maintain your BMW 3 Series throughout one year of ownership. The same is also true for the BMW 4 Series, as they are based on the same platform and engines.
How much does an oil change cost for a BMW 3 Series or a BMW 4 Series?
The average oil change for the BMW 3 and 4 Series varies between $160 and $210, depending on the location and the oil used. Labor prices are included in this total and can lie anywhere between $50 and $70, while the actual parts needed are estimated to be between $120 and $140.
How reliable are the BMW 328i and BMW 428i?
The BMW 328i has received a rating of 2.5 out of 5, and ranks in 30th place out of 32, in terms of reliability for all car brands. The BMW 428i ranks a little better, with a rating of 3.5 out of 5, making it more reliable than the BMW 328i.
Of course, the real reliability depends on how well-maintained and serviced your vehicle is. There have been reports of some BMW 328is and 428is reaching more than 200,000 miles with proper servicing.
More
The BMW 328i has the performance edge over its bigger sibling, the 428i. Despite being the base trim level for the 2-Series, the 328i still has impressive acceleration and power. Equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the 328i is capable of producing 240 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. This makes it incredibly responsive even in everyday situations.
The 428i, however, is powered by a more pedestrian 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 240 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. This power advantage is amplified when you factor in the fact that the 328i is significantly lighter than the 428i. At 3350 lbs, the 328i weighs an impressive 375 lbs less than the 428i. As a result, the 328i is much nimbler when it comes to acceleration, handling, and braking.
Additionally, the 328i does not suffer from the same amount of turbolag as the 428i, allowing it to get off the line quicker. Ultimately, the BMW 328i is the better option if you are looking for a performance-oriented vehicle. It provides superior power, agility, and responsiveness, making it the ideal choice for those who demand an exciting drive.