I compared two year olds, a X3 ZSP with Step and my 325xi ZSP with a stick.
I thought the X3 was fun to toss around on 128, I wouldn't have been disappointed if I had ended up with it (except the $4.20 a gallon). However, when properly equipped*, the 3er can be a hoot. The E46 330xi and E83 X3 comparo isn't really fair, they're technically the same car, but IMO, you can't really lose. Unless you get a 6AT.


* freude am fahren package, MSRP -$1275, Clutch Pedal, CDV, 6 gear shifter, leather boot