BMW 335i Vs 335is: Which High Performance 3 Series Is Right For You?

For driving enthusiasts seeking a sporty yet refined daily driver, it’s hard to beat BMW’s legendary 3 Series. Two of the most beloved models in recent years are the twin-turbo 335i and the even hotter 335is. But what’s the difference between these two performance-oriented 3 Series models? Which is the better choice – the 335i or 335is?

This in-depth comparison guide will examine the BMW 335i and 335is across factors like pricing, performance, engine specs, exterior design, interior features, handling dynamics, and more. After reviewing the key pros and cons of each model, you’ll have the details to decide if the extra muscle of the limited-run 335is is worth the price premium over the widely available 335i.

Either way, you’ll enjoy responsive turbocharged power and the celebrated driving engagement that makes the 3 Series a benchmark among compact luxury sports sedans. Let’s take a closer look at how the 335i and 335is stack up.

Pricing: 335i vs 335is Trims and Options

One of the biggest differences between the BMW 335i and 335is comes down to availability and pricing. BMW produced the standard 335i from 2006 to 2013 over multiple generations of the 3 Series platform. This means you can easily find used 335i models today in a range of trim levels from the base rear-wheel drive model to the all-wheel drive xDrive version.

In contrast, BMW manufactured the souped up 335is model only for the 2011 and 2012 model years, in a single trim with RWD. As a limited edition performance variant, the 335is commanded around a $10k premium over a comparable new 335i when new. On the used market today, this typically translates to the 335is costing $5k+ more than a similar mileage 335i.

335i Pricing

As a mass production 3 Series model available over many years, there’s a wide range of new and used 335i prices:

New MSRP: Ranged from $40k – $50k+ depending on year, options, RWD vs xDrive
Used Price Range Today: $10k – $25k depending on mileage, condition, packages

335is Pricing

Since the 335is was only made for two years and not configured with major option packages, pricing is more standardized:

Original MSRP: Around $50k – $55k
Used Price Today: $25k – $35k for low mileage examples

So while the 335i spans a wide budget range thanks to abundant used models, the 335is commands a hefty premium for its limited production numbers and performance credentials.

Performance and Engine Specs: 335i vs 335is

The main reason the BMW 335is can demand a higher price is its increased engine performance over the 335i. But just how much extra power does the 335is deliver versus the standard twin-turbo inline 6 cylinder engine of the 335i? Let’s look at some key engine specs:

335i Engine

3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline 6 Cylinder
306 hp @ 5,800 RPM
295 lb-ft Torque @ 1,200-5,000 RPM
0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds

335is Engine

3.0L TwinPower Turbo Inline 6 Cylinder
320 hp @ 5,900 RPM
332 lb-ft Torque @ 1,500-5,000 RPM
0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds

On paper, the performance gains of the 335is may not seem too dramatic – just 14 more horsepower and 37 lb-ft more peak torque. But combined with a shorter axle ratio and overboost function, the 335is puts down power more aggressively in the low to mid RPM band where it counts for real world acceleration.

This allows the re-tuned engine of the 335is to shave off a significant 0.6 seconds on the 0-60 mph sprint compared to the still quick 5.3 seconds for the 335i. For experienced drivers, the 335is delivers a noticeably tighter and more intense throttle response when pushing the car through corners or merging onto the highway.

The muscular force of the twin-turbo straight 6 hits harder every time you dig deep into the gas pedal, placing the 335is firmly in sports car territory. So while the base 335i is no slouch, the limited edition 335is offers that next level of visceral turbo power that enthusiasts will appreciate.

Exterior Styling: Design Differences Between the 335i and 335is

In addition to increased performance, the BMW 335is distinguishes itself visually through a more aggressive exterior styling treatment compared to the classic sport sedan look of the 335i.

335i Exterior

Iconic 3 Series profile with short front overhang and flowing roofline
Chrome trimmed BMW kidney grille
LED accented headlights (on later models)
Wide lower air intakes with chrome surrounds
Dual chrome exhaust tips integrated into rear valence

335is Exterior Upgrades

M Sport body kit with unique front and rear bumpers
Black mesh grille with “335is” designation
Special edition 19-inch alloy wheels
Shadowline exterior trim rather than chrome accents
Quad exhaust tips create aggressive stance

The specialized M Sport bodywork of the 335is envelops the car’s athletic proportions in deeper front and rear valences painted in contrasting shades like metallic gray. Black mesh replaces the traditional chrome kidney grille, playing up the car’s sinister attitude.

At the rear, a trunk lip spoiler and low floating diffuser flared around four trapezoidal exhaust tips makes the 335is instantly stand out from a typical 3 Series on visual impact alone. Overall, the tweaked aero treatment gives the limited edition 335is a focused look ready to devour winding backroads.

Interior Features and Options: 335i vs 335is Cabin Comparison

Moving inside, the BMW 335is interior is even more driver-focused with unique touches setting it apart from the well-appointed 335i cabin. Both models offer a quality feel and premium ambiance expected from BMW, along with roomy seating for four adults.

335i Interior

Upscale cabin with brushed aluminum or wood trim
Power adjustable leather sport seats
Automatic climate control
Multi-function sport steering wheel
Power moonroof
SensaTec dashboard
8 speaker sound system
Bluetooth and USB connectivity

335is Interior Upgrades

Black leather with contrast blue stitching
Aluminum trim with black gloss highlights
Sport seats with adjustable thigh support
M Sport steering wheel with paddle shifters
Anthracite headliner
Stainless steel foot pedals
Harman Kardon surround sound system

From the stylish black leather with eye-catching light blue contrast stitching, to the grippy M Sport steering wheel leaving no doubt this is a driver’s car, the 335is interior looks and feels special. The upgraded sport seats keep you firmly planted through tight corners while still allowing comfortable long distance road trips.

If you’re torn between a 335i or holding out for a 335is, the distinctive cockpit environment may help justify the extra cost to own this exclusive performance edition.

Suspension and Handling: Chassis and Brake Differences

The BMW 3 Series has long been renowned for delivering near perfect chassis balance and handling agility. So how does the performance variant 335is improve on the already lithe 335i?

Through precision upgrades to the suspension, steering, and brakes that transform the straight line power into confident control when carving corners.

335i Handling and Chassis

RWD or xDrive AWD models available
Multi-link rear suspension with anti-roll bars
Electric power steering
4-wheel ventilated disc brakes
Driving Dynamics Control with Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport, Sport+

335is Chassis and Brake Enhancements

Lower M Sport suspension by 10mm
Stiffer springs and track-tuned dampers
Variable sport steering with quicker ratio
Upgraded brake pads and inner vented rotors
Sport+ mode optimized for performance

While both models share the same essential suspension architecture, the reduced ride height and dialed-in components of the 335is pay dividends when driving enthusiastically. The quicker variable ratio steering provides more feedback and immediate turn-in response.

Large 14.2″ front and 13.6″ rear ventilated discs deliver fade-free stopping power from high speeds. Combine these enhancements with the car’s signature rear-drive balance and the 335is becomes an absolute joy to drive hard for experienced pilots. It holds lines with precision through corners and exits with composed stability thanks to its performance aligned chassis tuning.

Safety Tech and Driver Aids: Available Assistance Features

As modern luxury cars, both the BMW 335i and 335is come equipped with an array of helpful advanced driver assistance systems to add confidence and convenience. Key safety tech features include:

335i and 335is Safety Equipment

Dynamic Stability Control to prevent loss of traction
4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes enable steering control during hard braking
Daytime running lights and adaptive brake lights
Advanced front, side, and head airbags protect occupants
Rearview camera and front/rear parking sensors
Rain sensing wipers and auto high beams
Tire pressure monitoring system

Optional Driver Aids

Lane departure warning helps avoid unintended lane changes
Active blind spot detection alerts you to cars next to you
Forward collision warning with pedestrian detection
Adaptive cruise control maintains speed and distance automatically
Active Driving Assistant bundles collision mitigation and lane keeping assist

Both models provide the essential safety systems expected in a modern luxury vehicle. Optional advanced driver aids use cameras and sensors to help avoid collisions and keep the car centered in its lane. These active systems provide an added degree of protection when driving at high speeds.

Fuel Economy: MPG Ratings for 335i vs 335is

With their muscular turbocharged 6-cylinder engines, neither the BMW 335i nor 335is will win awards for fuel efficiency. However, when driven moderately they return respectable MPG for 300+ horsepower performance sedans.

335i Fuel Economy

RWD: 20 MPG City / 30 MPG Highway
xDrive AWD: 19 MPG City / 28 MPG Highway

335is Fuel Economy

19 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway

The 335is matches the city rating of the xDrive while giving up 3 MPG on the highway relative to its RWD twin. For the power hungry, the minor fuel economy penalty will be easy to justify. But it’s worth budgeting for premium fuel either way to enjoy everything these ultimate driving machines have to offer.

Which is the Better Value Today: Used 335i or 335is?

For buyers cross-shopping the BMW 335i versus paying a premium for the rare 335is, value depends largely on your desired mix of performance, practicality, and budget.

The standard 335i delivers an outstanding balance of driving engagement and real world livability at used car prices far below its original MSRP. Shoppers willing to sacrifice some prestige for value will feel right at home hustling a second-hand 335i down a twisty road.

But there’s no denying the extra kick of acceleration, breathtaking soundtrack, and visceral excitement delivered by the re-tuned engine and expertly upgraded chassis components of the 2011-2012 335is. This special edition 3 Series stands out from the crowd while bringing true sports car capabilities.

Our Recommendation

While the limited edition 335is carries a temptation premium, it represents the ultimate evolution of the E90/E92 generation 3 Series formula. The car’s razor sharp handling and intense power delivery reward experienced drivers who can fully exploit its capabilities.

The 335i captures much of the same magic at a more accessible price point, though used prices are rising. We suggest test driving both models if possible and carefully weighing your must-have features. Either way, you can be sure to enjoy the celebrated driving engagement that makes the 3 Series the benchmark among sports sedans.

Conclusion

BMW hit the mark perfectly with the 2011-2012 335is, squeezing more power from the classic twin-turbo inline 6 while honing the chassis for razor sharp reflexes when chucking it into corners. This special edition cemented the E90/E92 generation’s place among the brand’s all-time greats.

While the widely available 335i delivers stellar performance at a more affordable used car price, the limited run 335is stands atop the 3 Series range for its unmatched intensity and visceral focus. The enhanced power comes on strong and begs to be pushed hard lap after lap. Optimized handling balance and braking ability inspire confidence no matter how hot you’re charging.

Inside, the exclusive cabin treatment surrounding the driver evokes the car’s racing lineage. Ultimately, the extra dose of engine muscle, visual presence and track-capable composure makes the 335is is a must-have for diehard BMW fans with the budget to acquire one of these future classics while values remain on the rise.