The Polaris Magnum 330 was a recreational/utility ATV produced from 2003 to 2006.
It was launched in 2003 as the demand for ATVs that could offer the best of both worlds was at an all-time high, and actually took the place of the Polaris Magnum 325 which had been rolled out in 2000 shortly after production of the Polaris Magnum 425 was halted.
While it only saw a four-year production run, it was one of the go-to ATVs for hunting and hauling during those years.
This guide will offer the lowdown on the Polaris Magnum 330, along with the following:
- Specs and key features
- Top speed and overall performance
- Present-day values of these models
- Main pros and cons to be aware of if looking at a used model
About The Polaris Magnum 330
Upon taking the Magnum 325’s place, the Magnum 330 offered a number of upgrades including:
- An increase in engine displacement from 325 cc to 329 cc
- A bigger 34mm carburetor took the place of a 31mm carburetor
- Wet-sump lubrication took the place of dry-sump lubrication
- Change to a drum-shift transmission for easier shifting
- Addition of a Park setting
Though never confirmed, it is likely these upgrades that came along with the new Magnum 330 were in response to a 2003 recall on around 56,000 combined Magnum 325, Xpedition 325, and Trail Boss 325 units.
The Magnum 330 offered both a 2×4 and 4×4 model, with the latter being much more popular among consumers.
As a cross between a true utility ATV with some impressive recreational ability, it was quite popular among outdoor enthusiasts looking for a workhorse that could also serve as a trusted trail companion when work turned to play on the weekends.
And it didn’t disappoint in either regard, offering an impressive hauling capacity for its size and plenty of low end torque to tackle the toughest terrains.
Key Specs & Features
Engine/Drivetrain
The Polaris Magnum 330 is powered by a 329 cc single-cylinder engine, which was a slight upgrade over the Magnum 325 it replaced.
The engine offers good power, with a max output of around 20 horsepower in stock condition. And the throttle response is sharp.
Along with an upgrade to the engine came an upgrade to a bigger 34 mm carburetor from the 31 mm carburetor in the Magnum 325, allowing this model to breathe a little more and create slightly more power.
Even back in the 2000’s, Polaris engines were and still are known for being extremely reliable, with this one no different.
The Magnum 330 offers selectable 2WD/4WD via a switch on the right handlebar, making for an easy transition to either one.
And the transmission is a fully automatic CVT type, with both High and Low gears along with Reverse, Neutral, and Park settings.
One drawback around this model is the need to come to a stop to switch from either High or Low gear into the other. It can be done while in motion, but requires a magic touch.
| Engine Type | 4 Stroke |
| Cylinder Arrangement | Single Cylinder |
| Displacement | 329 cc |
| Horsepower | 20 HP (approximate) |
| Engine Cooling | Air Cooled |
| Fuel Delivery | 34mm Carburetor (Mikuni) |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.25 US Gallons |
| Drive System | Selectable 2WD/4WD, Shaft Drive |
| Transmission Type | Fully Automatic CVT w/ H/L, R, N, P |
Suspension
Like many Polaris ATVs of its time, the Magnum 330 makes use of a Macpherson strut front suspension and a progressive rate swingarm rear suspension combo.
This suspension set-up provides a generous amount of wheel travel, with 6.7 inches up front and 7.1 inches in back.
And it does an excellent job of offering a smooth ride in any terrain, with the solid-axle rear suspension helping the quad to stay firmly planted during any type of riding.
This model’s 6.75 inches of ground clearance is nothing to brag about, but offers plenty of room to clear smaller logs and rocks in the trail without the fear of scraping the underside.
Which is good, because the amount of low-end torque this quad offers will tempt you into trying to crawl more challenging obstacles. And most of the time it makes light work of this.
| Wheelbase | 49.75 in |
| Ground Clearance | 6.75 in |
| Front Suspension | Macpherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Progressive Rate Swingarm |
| Travel | Front – 6.7 in, Rear – 7.1 in |
Tires & Brakes
The Polaris Magnum 330 is equipped with 24 inch stock tires in the front and back.
While adequate, you’ll want to upgrade to some more aggressive tires if looking to take full advantage of this model’s climbing and mudding abilities.
The braking system features hydraulic disc brakes in the front and rear, which can be controlled using a single lever on the handlebar and a foot lever in the right footwell area.
The brake performance is as solid as they come, offering plenty of stopping power no matter the terrain or surface.
| Front Tires | 24 x 8-12 |
| Rear Tires | 24 x 11-12 |
| Front Brake Type | Hydraulic Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Hydraulic Disc |
Dimensions
This model resembles the look of its Magnum siblings, with the boxy build and low stance of a true utility vehicle.
Its 46 inch width does offer the ability to ride BLM trails with a restriction of 50 inches or less, and makes it able to snake through tighter wooded areas even as a bulky quad.
It is on the heavy side of ATVs in its class, but handles extremely well considering its weight.
| Length | 81 in |
| Width | 46 in |
| Height | 46 in |
| Dry Weight | 637 lbs |
Polaris Magnum 330 Top Speed
With its excellent low-end grunt, this model was geared more towards being a workhorse and trail riding machine than a speedster.
But for a 300 class quad in the early 2000’s, it held its own with just about any other model in its class in the speed department.
In stock condition, the Polaris Magnum 330 top speed is between 45 and 50 mph.
Polaris Magnum 330 Value
The table below shows the original manufacturer suggested list prices alongside the present-day average retail values of each Magnum 330 model according to JDPower.
| Year, Make & Model | LIst Price | Average Retail Price |
| 2003 Polaris Magnum 330 | $5,099 | $1,200 |
| 2004 Polaris Magnum 330 | $5,199 | $1,260 |
| 2005 Polaris Magnum 330 | $5,249 | $1,405 |
| 2006 Polaris Magnum 330 | $5,299 | $1,640 |
While not quite the values that can be found with the Polaris Magnum 425, you can likely make a used Magnum 330 yours for between $1,200 and $1,600.
Since they’ve all been around for some time, used models will likely take some work to have running at their best.
But this also means there are plenty of values to be had among them, as one in good condition will still offer much of the same ability as similar modern quads for those who take care of it and don’t push it too hard.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Well-rounded ATV that offers a good mix of working and recreational ability.
- Relatively long travel suspension offers a smooth ride even in technical terrain.
- There are full floorboards rather than the usual foot pegs of that time, which offer better grip.
- Makes a great go-between option for young riders who have outgrown youth quads but aren’t quite ready for a more powerful quad.
- Excellent hauling capacity.
- Good turning radius of around 5.5 feet for its bulkier build style.
- Though older models, those still in good condition offer trail riding and working ability not far off from that of modern day quads.
- Plastic storage racks in the front and rear are handy for hauling gear.
Cons
- Shifting from High to Low and Low to High gear usually requires coming to a stop first.
- Speedometer did not come standard and was an add-on, with many present-day models not having one.
- Carburetor is prone to causing issues with rough idling, stalling, and backfiring.
- The location of the exhaust/muffler makes riders’ legs prone to discomfort from exhaust heat.
- The plastic brake lever feels a bit cheap.
- As older machines, many used models have sat idle for some time and will likely need some mechanical troubleshooting to run correctly.
Final Thoughts
In the early 2000’s during its production run, the Polaris Magnum 330 was one of the better 4×4 ATV options available.
And even years later, units in good condition are just as capable as many modern 300-class quads around the farm and on the trail.
For more Polaris, check out the following guides before you go:
