This winter has been pretty typical of what a winter should be in Central Illinois. Even after 5 or 6 inches the roads are cleaned, but snow-packed.

So here's the deal: For years I've driven an SUV. Granted I rarely needed it, but on days when there's snow, I've been glad to have it.

My concern is that if I buy a 330i I'll end up regretting not getting the xi.

SO...

What's it like in winter in this part of the country with a rear-wheel drive BMW? And how well does the traction control on the rear wheels work?

Thanks.

I don't know what tires come stock on a 330i, but on my M3 with Blizzak LM-22s(225/45/17) I have no trouble at all. Your 330i with snow tires would be fine. Unless of course you are a terrible driver. :D

I drive my 330CI in the snow. No problems.

Check this thread out, I took a wrangler in the snow. http://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=59192

A good set of snows and DSC will get you through the ~5 days a year it snows significantly.

Awd doesn't do that much, but then again i have only driven a awd bmw in the winter... But my buddy drives his 92 325is in the winter every day, i think he has Mich Pilot's for winter on some steel wheels... They get him by just fine...

I had no problems driving in the snow with my Michelin Pilot Alpins on my M3. I sold my snows this year since I just use the Xterra in the snow.

I had my rims and performance tires on for the longest time....and im not gonna lie....it sucked in the snow!!!! I couldnt even get out the driveway...and DSC didnt do shit. I finaly put my stocks back on, and it defently made it alot better. I can actualy drive in the snow if needed and get out the driveway.

But...I usualy dont even drive my car in the winter i sorta store it. The F250 4x4 Turbo Diesel with 4 square of shingles in the bed usualy does the trick!!!!!!

My E34 does okay, not too bad, nothing stellar though. I quite often wish I had an LSD in back. The Michelin Pilots are a bit under half-tread now and sometimes don't do so good.

But like I've told many people, I'm native to Buffalo. I could probably drive a motorcycle in the snow...