Regardless of how you feel about BMW’s most recent cars, we can all more or less agree that BMW knows how to make cars that are fun to drive. But sometimes, even BMW seems cognizant that they’ve left a little bit on the table. A perfect example is introducing the M2 Competition after the original N55-powered car. Less recently, you could look at cars like the 335is and 135is. Those special, limited-run models took already lovely offerings from BMW and made them just a little bit feistier. But often times, all it really takes for a model to really come into its own is an equipment package; no re-badging or re-introductions necessary. And one of the best examples is the vaunted E46 3 Series ZHP.
Exploring ZHP: What it Means and What it Is
The ZHP, option code for the Performance Package, was a package BMW debuted on the 330i and 330ci (coupe/convertible) for model years 2003-2006. That was a chunk of change especially back then; but you got so much for your money. A special M-Tech II body kit and light 18-inch wheels transformed the E46’s understated exterior into something a little bit more extroverted. A modified suspension included firmer springs, special control arms, and stiffer dampers. BMW also dialed in some additional negative camber and added a unique, lighter cross-brace in the front. The car also got a little power bump. Ten additional horsepower and 300 extra rpm brought total output up to 235 horsepower and redline to 6,800 rpm. The car’s cabin saw small improvements, too. An Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, excellent shift knob (for manual-equipped cars), and unique trim on the dash made the car feel all the more special.
Today, it’s well-reflected that the ZHP cars are some of the most unique and compelling cars BMW ever made. Even less-than-perfect cars command a premium over similar non-ZHP cars. Well-kept ones sell for as much as $30,000 — that’s a lot for a car that’s only recently come into true “classic” age. The car’s unique blend of honed driving precision, stylish looks, and uncompromised comfort and luxury make it in some ways the quintessential “modern” BMW. BMW appeared to know it, because that’s not where the ZHP’s legacy ends.
ZHP: It’s More Than Just the E46
The 435i ZHP coupepart of the F32 BMW 4 Series generation, was the first time ZHP returned, ten years after the package’s initial run ended. Treatment was similar; unique body components, a limited-slip differential (LSD), and some M Performance goodies (including additional power and a throatier exhaust). Then, BMW did it again in 2018 with the 340i ZHP. It got, more or less, the same upgrades. Both models are considered highly desirable, and both were a limited production run. BMW only produced 100 of each. These cars, too, were massive improvements over the standard cars. While arguably less dramatic a character change, the LSD alone made the cars markedly different than non-ZHP counterparts.
Strong Competition: Runner-Up Packages
We’d be remiss if we didn’t include mention of at least some of the alternate heirs to the throne. The whole reason we’re talking about the ZHP at all, of course, is BMW’s recent introduction of the M Performance Track Kit to the G87 BMW M2. While €23,500 plus tax in Germany, rest assured that it’s as extensive as it is expensive. An adjustable splitter and swan-neck rear wing, extra scoops and diffusers, and special coilover suspension turns the already competent M2 into a purposeful track car. No doubt; it’s a cool bit of kit. But a value proposition it is not. Especially compared to the ZHP. It also significantly compromises the car as a road car (which, of course, is very much the intent).
The most obvious choice for second place, though, is ZCP, or the Competition Package. Available beginning with the E46 M3 and namesake for the more modern Competition Package cars, its ties to the brand and some of its most iconic cars run exactly parallel with ZHP. Like ZHP, the original ZCP added more aggressive wheels, suspension tuning, brakes, and more. These days, it adds power, too. But the E46 3 Series ZHP remains unchallenged in its accessibility and cult-like following. The subtle changes ZHP brought to the E46 3 Series dialed the car in and made it an instant classic. And that means one thing: it’s the best package BMW has ever offered. But it’s not for lack of trying.
