The 330i combines a robust, buttery smooth inline six with a smooth-shifting 6-speed manual and a smooth, feely clutch. Excellent all around.
The 3 series with Sport package offers an unbeatable combination of decent ride quality with pinpoint, lightning-quick handling. Probably the best-handling car on the road short of a dedicated sports car.
BMW is the most driver-focused marque on the market with the exception of dedicated sports car makers like Porsche and Ferrari. The focus is always on the driving experience first. No other mainstream maker has such a strong emphasis on driving.