Some of you might remember me saying a couple months back that we're going to be replacing my '99 A4 with a brand-new car in the $30K range. Basically, this is happening because:
1) The A4 has 90,000 miles on it. You really don't want to be driving a late-'90s Audi with 90,000 miles on it, especially when it's been acting up lately.
2) I got a very high ACT score and my parents are willing to spoil me.
3) I'm graduating HS this year
Technically, this is still going to be my dad's car, except it serves as my daily driver most of the time. We'll be switching off occasionally, because my dad loves driving a small sedan as opposed to his X3 every once in a while.
Through brand bias and what I honestly feel are two of the best cars in this class, we've narrowed it down to either:
-2006 BMW 325i 6sp Manual
-2006 Audi A4 2.0T quattro 6sp Manual
We're likely going to go very light on options for two reasons. One is to keep the cost down. The other is because both of these cars already come with a very nice list of standard options.
Configured the way I would want them to be (Basically just metallic paint and premium package), they would cost:
325i: $34,370 MSRP
A4: $32,720 MSRP
That's a difference of $1650. The thing is that we know a manager at the BMW dealership, so figure the Bimmer to be cheaper than its MSRP suggests.
Honestly, I feel that the 325i is worth an extra $1K over the A4. It's bigger inside, quicker, and handles better. The A4 has quattro and a nicer interior on its side.
I'm leaning towards the Bimmer. My dad's leaning towards the Audi but really doesn't mind that much since both are still fun to drive.
Here's the problem: My dad was the BMW dealership the other day. There isn't a single manual-transmission 325i available in all of the Chicagoland area. A4s, on the other hand, are easily found in manual form. I suppose we could have one shipped from another area, though...
(http://www.germancarfans.com/photos/3040906.001/1021.jpg)
(http://www.germancarfans.com/photos/3040906.001/1064.jpg)
(http://www.germancarfans.com/photos/3040906.001/1025.jpg)
(http://www.germancarfans.com/photos/3040906.001/1046.jpg)
(http://www.germancarfans.com/photos/3041026.001/1005.jpg)
(http://www.germancarfans.com/photos/3041026.001/1092.jpg)
(http://www.autospies.com/images/5-5-05/new-3-series/jarem-carrol/800/1072.jpg)
(http://www.germancarfans.com/photos/3041026.001/1057.jpg)
The Audi looks better, if that helps. :praise:
I personally prefer the A4. Mtl_A4 went through a shockingly similar situation last year, and he decided on the Audi.
QuoteI personally prefer the A4. Mtl_A4 went through a shockingly similar situation last year, and he decided on the Audi.
Actually, his situation is quite different.
We're looking at two models here that went through major changes between the '05 and '06 model years. ;)
I love Audi's, but I also love BMW's. Whichever is more fun to drive I would get. It doesn't matter how long it takes to get, because the Audi you have now is pretty sick.
QuoteThe Audi looks better, if that helps. :praise:
I honestly can't decide which one looks better from the outside. As for interior, I've been in both:
The Audi's looks and feels better.
The Bimmer's has a better layout.
I like the Bimmer's styling better on the outside. The Audi does have a nicer interior with regards to appearance.
They both might be the same, since you know the manager. And you can always have a car shipped to you.
I like them both and either way you can't go wrong. The Bimmer will probably be more fun to drive but the Quattro will be nice in the winter. Either way its a win-win situation. ;)
I would get the A4
QuoteQuoteI personally prefer the A4. Mtl_A4 went through a shockingly similar situation last year, and he decided on the Audi.
Actually, his situation is quite different.
We're looking at two models here that went through major changes between the '05 and '06 model years. ;)
Yes, but he was faced to choose between either an automatic 325i (which he prefered) or a manual A4.
QuoteQuoteThe Audi looks better, if that helps. :praise:
I honestly can't decide which one looks better from the outside. As for interior, I've been in both:
The Audi's looks and feels better.
The Bimmer's has a better layout.
Exterior-wise they are pretty equal, but I think the side profile of the Bimmer makes its exterior styling inferior to the Audi's... just my .02. :)
QuoteQuoteQuoteI personally prefer the A4. Mtl_A4 went through a shockingly similar situation last year, and he decided on the Audi.
Actually, his situation is quite different.
We're looking at two models here that went through major changes between the '05 and '06 model years. ;)
Yes, but he was faced to choose between either an automatic 325i (which he prefered) or a manual A4.
The difference here is that I can still wait for or get a manual 3er.
There's NO way I'm getting an auto.
He went manual, and he can't go back to the dirty automatic.
QuoteHe went manual, and he can't go back to the dirty automatic.
Actually, I started manual and refuse to switch to an auto.
Get the 3er. Have you also looked at a G35?
QuoteGet the 3er. Have you also looked at a G35?
No, because I don't like 'em.
You've narrowed this down to a win-win - congratulations! My obvious bias would be for the A4. Reasons are that I'm an Audi fan for 20 yrs, and also, living in the snow belt, quattro makes total sense. One of the reasons I like Audis in general is that there are fewer of them around. Also, peoples' prejudices regarding MB and BMW would be a detriment for me. (Clients don't seem to mind when I show up in my A6, but the other 2 Deutsche marques would imply that I'm hosing them. They're unaware of the fact that they all cost about the same.) I also don't like being "one of the crowd", so the public perception of these cars suits me well. If you don't have those issues to contend with, and the BMW gets your blood flowing more, go for it. Good luck pulling the trigger! :lol:
QuoteQuoteGet the 3er. Have you also looked at a G35?
No, because I don't like 'em.
what's wrong with em? cos it's Japanese, and doesn't have the prestige of the other two? For the price of a 325i, you can get a G35 with more options, and 298 hp. :praise:
Have you driven the A4 yet?
It will need the sport package to be able to handle like the 325i (sans sport package). Actually the sport package on the 325i is somewhat superfluous as the handling seems about the same...you are basically getting an interior appearan package, lower springs, and wider tires. ll of which are nice, but don't change the personality of the car much. On the A4 I found that the sport package makes a much bigger difference, probably due to the nose-heavy nature requiring stiffer springs to feel more nimble. The sport package only adds $750 US to the price and you get larger wheels and a better suspension. Definitely worth it IMHO.
That being said, the 325i is the better car overall. If I was in your place I would order a 325i with the exact options you want from the factory (or if your dealer can get one exactly how you want even better). I was in a hurry when I bought my car and needed to take delivery since I had already sold my Z3 and the A4 just had better options at the time (basically fully loaded + manual). The 325i's I looked at were all automatics (coupes had some manuals, but I wanted a sedan for some reason). Otherwise I would have taken a 325i.
(side note: my first choise was actually a Saab 9-3 Aero, but when i went to start dealing I found out GM would not finance me in Canada since I only have a temporary working permit, nothing perminant)
QuoteQuoteQuoteGet the 3er. Have you also looked at a G35?
No, because I don't like 'em.
what's wrong with em? cos it's Japanese, and doesn't have the prestige of the other two? For the price of a 325i, you can get a G35 with more options, and 298 hp. :praise:
Hp isnt the only factor of a car, you know. And Faris isnt exactly looking at the bargain basement. However much more they will cost, the 325i is the better car.
I'd definitely go with the BMW on this, especially with that small of a price difference. Have you looked at a TSX, by the way?
QuoteI personally prefer the A4. Mtl_A4 went through a shockingly similar situation last year, and he decided on the Audi.
Also, the Bimmer was yellow and an auto
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteGet the 3er. Have you also looked at a G35?
No, because I don't like 'em.
what's wrong with em? cos it's Japanese, and doesn't have the prestige of the other two? For the price of a 325i, you can get a G35 with more options, and 298 hp. :praise:
Hp isnt the only factor of a car, you know. And Faris isnt exactly looking at the bargain basement. However much more they will cost, the 325i is the better car.
Well, he didn't even say why he didnt like the car... And mags have said that the G handles almost as good as the 3er.
QuoteQuoteQuoteGet the 3er. Have you also looked at a G35?
No, because I don't like 'em.
what's wrong with em? cos it's Japanese, and doesn't have the prestige of the other two? For the price of a 325i, you can get a G35 with more options, and 298 hp. :praise:
1- Horsepower is not my concern in any way
2- My dad's spending the cash and, like me, he's biased towards Audi and BMW in particular.
Put those two factors into the equation, and the G35 doesn't really make much sense.
QuoteYou've narrowed this down to a win-win - congratulations! My obvious bias would be for the A4. Reasons are that I'm an Audi fan for 20 yrs, and also, living in the snow belt, quattro makes total sense. One of the reasons I like Audis in general is that there are fewer of them around. Also, peoples' prejudices regarding MB and BMW would be a detriment for me. (Clients don't seem to mind when I show up in my A6, but the other 2 Deutsche marques would imply that I'm hosing them. They're unaware of the fact that they all cost about the same.) I also don't like being "one of the crowd", so the public perception of these cars suits me well. If you don't have those issues to contend with, and the BMW gets your blood flowing more, go for it. Good luck pulling the trigger! :lol:
I like the A4 mainly because it screams "Different!". Most of you can probably guess my attitude about all these people going out and buying automatic 325i's for the badge.
When it comes down to it, though, those factors really aren't enough to sway my decision to either.
QuoteIt will need the sport package to be able to handle like the 325i (sans sport package). Actually the sport package on the 325i is somewhat superfluous as the handling seems about the same...you are basically getting an interior appearan package, lower springs, and wider tires. ll of which are nice, but don't change the personality of the car much. On the A4 I found that the sport package makes a much bigger difference, probably due to the nose-heavy nature requiring stiffer springs to feel more nimble. The sport package only adds $750 US to the price and you get larger wheels and a better suspension. Definitely worth it IMHO.
Wow, I never noticed that Sport Package was that cheap...
Thanks for the suggestion. We'll defenitely go for the sport package if we decide to go A4 in the end.
QuoteI'd definitely go with the BMW on this, especially with that small of a price difference. Have you looked at a TSX, by the way?
I haven't looked at the TSX. I probably should... Thing is, after experiencing torque steer, I have a general dislike for FWD.
QuoteQuoteI'd definitely go with the BMW on this, especially with that small of a price difference. Have you looked at a TSX, by the way?
I haven't looked at the TSX. I probably should... Thing is, after experiencing torque steer, I have a general dislike for FWD.
The TSX doesn't have a torque steer problem, doesn't have enough torque. :P
It's a great car though, you really do need to give it at least a look and a test drive.
Guys, another factor is depreciation...
Me and my dad were considering going used and were looking at 2002-2004 BMW 325i's. A good 2003 with average mileage is being sold for around $26K or more... And that's after the introduction of a new bodystyle!
The Bimmer's going to depreciate slowly. Audis don't tend to hold their value as well.
I would get the BMW. To me, it just has more of a "wow, that's freakin' awesome!" factor to it. Plus the Audi's nose just doesn't look right with the big U.S. plates on it (since the black strip was meant for the thin European plates).
QuoteQuoteQuoteI'd definitely go with the BMW on this, especially with that small of a price difference. Have you looked at a TSX, by the way?
I haven't looked at the TSX. I probably should... Thing is, after experiencing torque steer, I have a general dislike for FWD.
The TSX doesn't have a torque steer problem, doesn't have enough torque. :P
ifcar, my experiences are from a 1.6l Peugeot. That thing has way less torque than the TSX.:lol:
QuoteGuys, another factor is depreciation...
Me and my dad were considering going used and were looking at 2002-2004 BMW 325i's. A good 2003 with average mileage is being sold for around $26K or more... And that's after the introduction of a new bodystyle!
The Bimmer's going to depreciate slowly. Audis don't tend to hold their value as well.
In the ALG depreciation, both the 05 3-Series and the A4 earned 4 out of 5 stars.
QuoteQuoteQuoteI'd definitely go with the BMW on this, especially with that small of a price difference. Have you looked at a TSX, by the way?
I haven't looked at the TSX. I probably should... Thing is, after experiencing torque steer, I have a general dislike for FWD.
The TSX doesn't have a torque steer problem, doesn't have enough torque. :P
It's a great car though, you really do need to give it at least a look and a test drive.
The TSX is not really in the same class as the 3er and A4. I mean it is, but not on a driving level. It's a fantastic car, and if I could, I'd buy one over a Passat, probably a TL even, but maybe not a 9-3. But, when RWD is in the equation, the TSX's charms are kind of...irrelevant.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI'd definitely go with the BMW on this, especially with that small of a price difference. Have you looked at a TSX, by the way?
I haven't looked at the TSX. I probably should... Thing is, after experiencing torque steer, I have a general dislike for FWD.
The TSX doesn't have a torque steer problem, doesn't have enough torque. :P
ifcar, my experiences are from a 1.6l Peugeot. That thing has way less torque than the TSX.:lol:
Torque steer isn't just torque. It's engineering too.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI'd definitely go with the BMW on this, especially with that small of a price difference. Have you looked at a TSX, by the way?
I haven't looked at the TSX. I probably should... Thing is, after experiencing torque steer, I have a general dislike for FWD.
The TSX doesn't have a torque steer problem, doesn't have enough torque. :P
It's a great car though, you really do need to give it at least a look and a test drive.
The TSX is not really in the same class as the 3er and A4. I mean it is, but not on a driving level. It's a fantastic car, and if I could, I'd buy one over a Passat, probably a TL even, but maybe not a 9-3. But, when RWD is in the equation, the TSX's charms are kind of...irrelevant.
I agree, the TSX just isnt special enough, if you know what I mean, to compete with its German competitiors. At least the G35 has lots of hp going for it, but the TSX is more picking up the lower end of the sport sedan segment.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI'd definitely go with the BMW on this, especially with that small of a price difference. Have you looked at a TSX, by the way?
I haven't looked at the TSX. I probably should... Thing is, after experiencing torque steer, I have a general dislike for FWD.
The TSX doesn't have a torque steer problem, doesn't have enough torque. :P
ifcar, my experiences are from a 1.6l Peugeot. That thing has way less torque than the TSX.:lol:
Torque steer isn't just torque. It's engineering too.
And Peugeots are known to be the best-handling FWD cars...
I would personally go for the A4.
Personally i'd take the bmw, to me its way more car than the audi.
Of course my main focus is performance, and i'd take the I6/RWD setup and perfect balance of the 3er over the audi.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI'd definitely go with the BMW on this, especially with that small of a price difference. Have you looked at a TSX, by the way?
I haven't looked at the TSX. I probably should... Thing is, after experiencing torque steer, I have a general dislike for FWD.
The TSX doesn't have a torque steer problem, doesn't have enough torque. :P
ifcar, my experiences are from a 1.6l Peugeot. That thing has way less torque than the TSX.:lol:
Torque steer isn't just torque. It's engineering too.
I was kidding. ;)
Then get the BMW. Great balance, and RWD.
QuoteQuoteI personally prefer the A4. Mtl_A4 went through a shockingly similar situation last year, and he decided on the Audi.
Also, the Bimmer was yellow and an auto
Actually the yellow interior was one of the few things that made me consider getting it. if it was a simple black on black I would have went for the Audi even quicker.
But a black 3-series with a yellow interior was pretty nice and hard to pass up.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI'd definitely go with the BMW on this, especially with that small of a price difference. Have you looked at a TSX, by the way?
I haven't looked at the TSX. I probably should... Thing is, after experiencing torque steer, I have a general dislike for FWD.
The TSX doesn't have a torque steer problem, doesn't have enough torque. :P
ifcar, my experiences are from a 1.6l Peugeot. That thing has way less torque than the TSX.:lol:
Torque steer isn't just torque. It's engineering too.
I was kidding. ;)
I know
you were kidding....
Oh...by the way...
Legacy 2.5GT 5 speed.
QuoteOh...by the way...
Legacy 2.5GT 5 speed.
Its hard for me to imagine someone that is willing to spend the money for a 325i settling for Subaru. I havem't driven the car, but I've sat in it and the interior would make a Chevy Malibu owner feel like they own a luxury car.
QuoteQuoteOh...by the way...
Legacy 2.5GT 5 speed.
Its hard for me to imagine someone that is willing to spend the money for a 325i settling for Subaru. I havem't driven the car, but I've sat in it and the interior would make a Chevy Malibu owner feel like they own a luxury car.
I don't mind the Subie interior at all. Seemed high quality enough for my tastes. The Beamer wouldn't exactly be mistaken for a palace either.
QuoteQuoteOh...by the way...
Legacy 2.5GT 5 speed.
Its hard for me to imagine someone that is willing to spend the money for a 325i settling for Subaru. I havem't driven the car, but I've sat in it and the interior would make a Chevy Malibu owner feel like they own a luxury car.
I thought it was very nice. Are you sure it was an 05 you were in?
QuoteQuoteQuoteOh...by the way...
Legacy 2.5GT 5 speed.
Its hard for me to imagine someone that is willing to spend the money for a 325i settling for Subaru. I havem't driven the car, but I've sat in it and the interior would make a Chevy Malibu owner feel like they own a luxury car.
I don't mind the Subie interior at all. Seemed high quality enough for my tastes. The Beamer wouldn't exactly be mistaken for a palace either.
The materials in the Beemer are extremely high quality, even if you dont like the design.
I also dont have anything wrong with the Subie interior. I sat in one, and found it quite nice.
Materials are not the greatest, many have said so. I personally like the 3-series interior, but I do not believe it outdoes the Legacy.
QuoteMaterials are not the greatest, many have said so. I personally like the 3-series interior, but I do not believe it outdoes the Legacy.
In quality, it certainly outdoes it, IMO. But the layout of the Subie is nicer cosmetically. Although when you sit in the 3er, the interior just feels right, and sort of wraps around you.
QuoteQuoteOh...by the way...
Legacy 2.5GT 5 speed.
Its hard for me to imagine someone that is willing to spend the money for a 325i settling for Subaru. I havem't driven the car, but I've sat in it and the interior would make a Chevy Malibu owner feel like they own a luxury car.
You obviously were not in the 2.5GT Limited then. The interior is just fine.
I'd get you a pic, but I hape flash galleries...
(http://www.dcr.net/~rcatron/legacy_files/image018.jpg)
Not the greatest pic, but good enough to dispell the haters.
Quote(http://www.dcr.net/~rcatron/legacy_files/image018.jpg)
Not the greatest pic, but good enough to dispell the haters.
The layout is great, the materials are decent, and with the wood or aluminum trim on the Limited models, it's a very good interior. Especially when you can walk away with a stick, AWD, good size, good interior, sleeper qualities, and 0-60 in under 6 seconds for roughly 30 grand.
I read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
QuoteI read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
Not really. It's the same as in the WRX, and it's not bad. High catch, which the short throw shifter, it's pretty good. The standard one is a little long and lanky. It's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
QuoteQuoteI read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
Not really. It's the same as in the WRX, and it's not bad. High catch, which the short throw shifter, it's pretty good. The standard one is a little long and lanky. It's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Nope, Audi doesn't either.
QuoteQuoteQuoteI read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
Not really. It's the same as in the WRX, and it's not bad. High catch, which the short throw shifter, it's pretty good. The standard one is a little long and lanky. It's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Nope, Audi doesn't either.
I actualy love Audi shifters. They're a little rubbery and vague, but they're really easy to drive and a pleasure to use. The only manual that I really hated was the xB's. It was terrible. First missed shift ever.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
Not really. It's the same as in the WRX, and it's not bad. High catch, which the short throw shifter, it's pretty good. The standard one is a little long and lanky. It's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Nope, Audi doesn't either.
I actualy love Audi shifters. They're a little rubbery and vague, but they're really easy to drive and a pleasure to use. The only manual that I really hated was the xB's. It was terrible. First missed shift ever.
You need to try out a few more econocars. ;)
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
Not really. It's the same as in the WRX, and it's not bad. High catch, which the short throw shifter, it's pretty good. The standard one is a little long and lanky. It's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Nope, Audi doesn't either.
I actualy love Audi shifters. They're a little rubbery and vague, but they're really easy to drive and a pleasure to use. The only manual that I really hated was the xB's. It was terrible. First missed shift ever.
You need to try out a few more econocars. ;)
yeah, he hasn't seen bad manuals yet. YOu wouldn't either if you were a rich kid, and your first car is a MB.
My shifter is no more vague than the 3er.
Its more notchy, and the clutch is a little tricker, but the shift action is great.
I will put your views on the Legacy interior as mass halucination. Its interior is worse tha a Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6, or Nissan Altima which have all been criticised. Its certainly not on par with even a G35, which is about bottom wrung for this class, and nowhere near a 325i.
Silver painted plastic does not make an interior good.
QuoteMy shifter is no more vague than the 3er.
Its more notchy, and the clutch is a little tricker, but the shift action is great.
I will put your views on the Legacy interior as mass halucination. Its interior is worse tha a Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6, or Nissan Altima which have all been criticised. Its certainly not on par with even a G35, which is about bottom wrung for this class, and nowhere near a 325i.
Silver painted plastic does not make an interior good.
The 3ers is definitely more precise than the TTs, and I can only imagine the TT uses the same shifter as the A4...
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
Not really. It's the same as in the WRX, and it's not bad. High catch, which the short throw shifter, it's pretty good. The standard one is a little long and lanky. It's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Nope, Audi doesn't either.
I actualy love Audi shifters. They're a little rubbery and vague, but they're really easy to drive and a pleasure to use. The only manual that I really hated was the xB's. It was terrible. First missed shift ever.
You need to try out a few more econocars. ;)
True. I'm driving a Civic this weekend.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
Not really. It's the same as in the WRX, and it's not bad. High catch, which the short throw shifter, it's pretty good. The standard one is a little long and lanky. It's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Nope, Audi doesn't either.
I actualy love Audi shifters. They're a little rubbery and vague, but they're really easy to drive and a pleasure to use. The only manual that I really hated was the xB's. It was terrible. First missed shift ever.
You need to try out a few more econocars. ;)
Yeah seriously.
An A4 shifter vague...that makes no sense compared to 99% of manuals on the market. The only company with better manuals is BMW and Honda (edit: that I have driven).
Not that Audi actually makes their manuals. In all liklihood its the same company that sources BMW manuals.
QuoteQuoteMy shifter is no more vague than the 3er.
Its more notchy, and the clutch is a little tricker, but the shift action is great.
I will put your views on the Legacy interior as mass halucination. Its interior is worse tha a Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6, or Nissan Altima which have all been criticised. Its certainly not on par with even a G35, which is about bottom wrung for this class, and nowhere near a 325i.
Silver painted plastic does not make an interior good.
The 3ers is definitely more precise than the TTs, and I can only imagine the TT uses the same shifter as the A4...
How the heck can you conclude that. The TT is on the FWD Golf platform, the A4 uses the same chassis as the A6, S4, RS4, RS6, blah blah blah. They are not even close.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
Not really. It's the same as in the WRX, and it's not bad. High catch, which the short throw shifter, it's pretty good. The standard one is a little long and lanky. It's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Nope, Audi doesn't either.
I actualy love Audi shifters. They're a little rubbery and vague, but they're really easy to drive and a pleasure to use. The only manual that I really hated was the xB's. It was terrible. First missed shift ever.
You need to try out a few more econocars. ;)
Yeah seriously.
An A4 shifter vague...that makes no sense compared to 99% of manuals on the market. The only company with better manuals is BMW and Honda.
Not that Audi actually makes their manuals. In all liklihood its the same company that sources BMW manuals.
To my knowledge, BMW specifies the design of ZF manuals.
And what's the point of comparing filet mignon and 80% lean ground beef? Yes, the Audi shifter is vague and rubbery. More rubbery than vague, but it is.
QuoteQuoteQuoteMy shifter is no more vague than the 3er.
Its more notchy, and the clutch is a little tricker, but the shift action is great.
I will put your views on the Legacy interior as mass halucination. Its interior is worse tha a Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6, or Nissan Altima which have all been criticised. Its certainly not on par with even a G35, which is about bottom wrung for this class, and nowhere near a 325i.
Silver painted plastic does not make an interior good.
The 3ers is definitely more precise than the TTs, and I can only imagine the TT uses the same shifter as the A4...
How the heck can you conclude that. The TT is on the FWD Golf platform, the A4 uses the same chassis as the A6, S4, RS4, RS6, blah blah blah. They are not even close.
Same engine, both are AWD Audis...I imagine it's the same stick.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteMy shifter is no more vague than the 3er.
Its more notchy, and the clutch is a little tricker, but the shift action is great.
I will put your views on the Legacy interior as mass halucination. Its interior is worse tha a Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6, or Nissan Altima which have all been criticised. Its certainly not on par with even a G35, which is about bottom wrung for this class, and nowhere near a 325i.
Silver painted plastic does not make an interior good.
The 3ers is definitely more precise than the TTs, and I can only imagine the TT uses the same shifter as the A4...
How the heck can you conclude that. The TT is on the FWD Golf platform, the A4 uses the same chassis as the A6, S4, RS4, RS6, blah blah blah. They are not even close.
Same engine, both are AWD Audis...I imagine it's the same stick.
No, they are not even close to being the same setup. One has a transverse engine layout with a haldex AWD system, one has a longitudinal engine layout with a torsen differential.
C'mon you drive a Passat surely you should know this. Mechanically an A4 is closer to an A8 or Bentley GT than a TT.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
Not really. It's the same as in the WRX, and it's not bad. High catch, which the short throw shifter, it's pretty good. The standard one is a little long and lanky. It's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Nope, Audi doesn't either.
I actualy love Audi shifters. They're a little rubbery and vague, but they're really easy to drive and a pleasure to use. The only manual that I really hated was the xB's. It was terrible. First missed shift ever.
You need to try out a few more econocars. ;)
True. I'm driving a Civic this weekend.
That should be interesting, it should give you some insight as to what the average cheap car is like, albeit with better (though not great) handling.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
Not really. It's the same as in the WRX, and it's not bad. High catch, which the short throw shifter, it's pretty good. The standard one is a little long and lanky. It's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Nope, Audi doesn't either.
I actualy love Audi shifters. They're a little rubbery and vague, but they're really easy to drive and a pleasure to use. The only manual that I really hated was the xB's. It was terrible. First missed shift ever.
You need to try out a few more econocars. ;)
Yeah seriously.
An A4 shifter vague...that makes no sense compared to 99% of manuals on the market. The only company with better manuals is BMW and Honda.
Not that Audi actually makes their manuals. In all liklihood its the same company that sources BMW manuals.
To my knowledge, BMW specifies the design of ZF manuals.
And what's the point of comparing filet mignon and 80% lean ground beef? Yes, the Audi shifter is vague and rubbery. More rubbery than vague, but it is.
Okay I give up.
And just FYI Getrag makes BMW manuals.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI read that the manual in the Legacy was dreadful.
Not really. It's the same as in the WRX, and it's not bad. High catch, which the short throw shifter, it's pretty good. The standard one is a little long and lanky. It's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Nope, Audi doesn't either.
I actualy love Audi shifters. They're a little rubbery and vague, but they're really easy to drive and a pleasure to use. The only manual that I really hated was the xB's. It was terrible. First missed shift ever.
You need to try out a few more econocars. ;)
Yeah seriously.
An A4 shifter vague...that makes no sense compared to 99% of manuals on the market. The only company with better manuals is BMW and Honda.
Not that Audi actually makes their manuals. In all liklihood its the same company that sources BMW manuals.
To my knowledge, BMW specifies the design of ZF manuals.
And what's the point of comparing filet mignon and 80% lean ground beef? Yes, the Audi shifter is vague and rubbery. More rubbery than vague, but it is.
Okay I give up.
And just FYI Getrag makes BMW manuals.
Not recent ones. Either that or every magazine has been wrong about the 5 and 6 series.
QuoteOur six speed manual gearbox conversion package for '92-99 six cylinder e36 cars is developed around BMW's latest transmission; the ZF model GS6-37BZ as used in the e46 330i, Z4 and new 5 series.
Link (http://www.zionsvilleautosport.com/store/shop.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=6134&Product_Code=NP-SIXSPDCD&Category_Code=S)
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteMy shifter is no more vague than the 3er.
Its more notchy, and the clutch is a little tricker, but the shift action is great.
I will put your views on the Legacy interior as mass halucination. Its interior is worse tha a Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6, or Nissan Altima which have all been criticised. Its certainly not on par with even a G35, which is about bottom wrung for this class, and nowhere near a 325i.
Silver painted plastic does not make an interior good.
The 3ers is definitely more precise than the TTs, and I can only imagine the TT uses the same shifter as the A4...
How the heck can you conclude that. The TT is on the FWD Golf platform, the A4 uses the same chassis as the A6, S4, RS4, RS6, blah blah blah. They are not even close.
Same engine, both are AWD Audis...I imagine it's the same stick.
No, they are not even close to being the same setup. One has a transverse engine layout with a haldex AWD system, one has a longitudinal engine layout with a torsen differential.
C'mon you drive a Passat surely you should know this. Mechanically an A4 is closer to an A8 or Bentley GT than a TT.
Transmissions are flexible.
No, they aren't, a transaxle will not work with a longitudinally mounted engine.
QuoteIt's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Yeah, but I'm used to the Audi's.
QuoteNo, they aren't, a transaxle will not work with a longitudinally mounted engine.
My bad then.
But the TT's is a bit rubbery and vague. I can't remember whether I've driven an A4 manual. I drove an A6 2.7T back in the day, but it was an automatic.
QuoteQuoteIt's not like Audi has a perfect shifter either.
Yeah, but I'm used to the Audi's.
Like I said, I love Audi shifters. The TT is incredibly easy to drive.
I plan on making a very similar decision in about 4 months, for me it'll be between the 325i, the A4 2.0 quattro, and the TSX (I realize the TSX is a rung below the other two, the reason I include it is the extra $5k+ it would leave in my pocket). Whichever I choose it'll be w/ a manual.
Having not yet driven either the A4 or the 325i yet, I think the Bimmer is my least favorite of the three (taking price into consideration). Something about the styling doesn't do it for me, I think it's the worst value of the 3, and everyone and their brother has a 3-series. At this point I think it'll be the A4 or the TSX, and probably the biggest factor in choosing between the two will be the size of my bonus. But, a test drive in the Bimmer may just be enough to change all that, after all I do prefer RWD.
I'll probably test drive the G35 along with the others, but I agree that I don't like it as well as the 3 mentioned above. I know, 298hp and RWD look great on paper, but something about the G35's styling, both inside and out, doesn't do it for me.
QuoteSomething about the styling doesn't do it for me, I think it's the worst value of the 3, and everyone and their brother has a 3-series.
I could never spend money on a car if I didn't like its looks, I don't care if it drove like a lotus elise.
QuoteQuoteSomething about the styling doesn't do it for me, I think it's the worst value of the 3, and everyone and their brother has a 3-series.
I could never spend money on a car if I didn't like its looks, I don't care if it drove like a lotus elise.
Yeah, I agree. I'm not saying that the 3-series is bad looking ... it just doesn't have the knockout good looks that prior 3-series have had when they first came out. I remember, when I first saw the E-46 when it was brand new, I thought to myself "WOW! That looks good!". When the new one came out, though, the general response seemed to be "well, at least Bangle didn't screw it up". To me, a highly anticipated new car like that should elicit a more enthusiastic response than "at least they didn't screw it up".
Add to that, when I went to the BMW website and priced the 3-series, the 330i optioned as I wanted it came out to $44k! And in last month's road and track, they tested both the A4 2.0 quattro and the 330 (not the 325, the 330) in the same issue, and the A4 matched its quarter mile and trailed by 0.2 seconds to 60. I'm not saying speed is everything, but if the A4 2.0 can hang w/ the 330, looks better, has a nicer interior, and is $10k less to boot, to me that's a pretty good package.
I have to admit, when I first saw the E90 330i, I thought, "WOW, that looks GOOD!"
QuoteI have to admit, when I first saw the E90 330i, I thought, "WOW, that looks GOOD!"
me too.
QuoteAnd in last month's road and track, they tested both the A4 2.0 quattro and the 330 (not the 325, the 330) in the same issue, and the A4 matched its quarter mile and trailed by 0.2 seconds to 60. I'm not saying speed is everything, but if the A4 2.0 can hang w/ the 330, looks better, has a nicer interior, and is $10k less to boot, to me that's a pretty good package.
I don't care WHAT R&T says or has observed, an A4 2.0T doesn't stand a CHANCE against a 330i.
Either their A4 was on steroids or something was wrong with the 330 they tested, because the numbers don't add up.
QuoteI have to admit, when I first saw the E90 330i, I thought, "WOW, that looks GOOD!"
I initially thought the front was butt-ugly because BMW's pictures suck. In person, it's better looking than the E46 in every way.
The new A4 is also a LOT better-looking than the model it replaces. Come to think of it, It looks even better than mine.
QuoteQuoteI have to admit, when I first saw the E90 330i, I thought, "WOW, that looks GOOD!"
I initially thought the front was butt-ugly because BMW's pictures suck. In person, it's better looking than the E46 in every way.
:rolleyes:
QuoteQuoteQuoteI have to admit, when I first saw the E90 330i, I thought, "WOW, that looks GOOD!"
I initially thought the front was butt-ugly because BMW's pictures suck. In person, it's better looking than the E46 in every way.
:rolleyes:
You were the one who always criticized the E46's ill-proportioned rear on the sedan...
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI have to admit, when I first saw the E90 330i, I thought, "WOW, that looks GOOD!"
I initially thought the front was butt-ugly because BMW's pictures suck. In person, it's better looking than the E46 in every way.
:rolleyes:
You were the one who always criticized the E46's ill-proportioned rear on the sedan...
Was I?
Oh.
Still looked better than the new one.
What happened to the small car?
QuoteThe new A4 is also a LOT better-looking than the model it replaces. Come to think of it, It looks even better than mine.
Screw you hippie!
QuoteQuoteThe new A4 is also a LOT better-looking than the model it replaces. Come to think of it, It looks even better than mine.
Screw you hippie!
Yours looks better than his, if it makes you feel any better.
QuoteQuoteQuoteThe new A4 is also a LOT better-looking than the model it replaces. Come to think of it, It looks even better than mine.
Screw you hippie!
Yours looks better than his, if it makes you feel any better.
That does make me feel better in fact. :praise:
:D
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI have to admit, when I first saw the E90 330i, I thought, "WOW, that looks GOOD!"
I initially thought the front was butt-ugly because BMW's pictures suck. In person, it's better looking than the E46 in every way.
:rolleyes:
You were the one who always criticized the E46's ill-proportioned rear on the sedan...
Was I?
Oh.
Still looked better than the new one.
What happened to the small car?
Yeah, the E90 does look a bit bigger than I'd like, even though it barely grew.
QuoteQuoteThe new A4 is also a LOT better-looking than the model it replaces. Come to think of it, It looks even better than mine.
Screw you hippie!
The B6 is better than its predecessor in every way but looks, where the B5 kills it IMO. Then again, my sport-package A4 with bright paint looks a lot better than most B5s.
I think me and my dad are just gonna test-drive them both over the weekend and make a decision. If it's the 3er, we'll just have one shipped from somewhere else.
Well, you should be happy either way.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI have to admit, when I first saw the E90 330i, I thought, "WOW, that looks GOOD!"
I initially thought the front was butt-ugly because BMW's pictures suck. In person, it's better looking than the E46 in every way.
:rolleyes:
You were the one who always criticized the E46's ill-proportioned rear on the sedan...
Was I?
Oh.
Still looked better than the new one.
What happened to the small car?
Yeah, the E90 does look a bit bigger than I'd like, even though it barely grew.
On the interior it grew a lot.
First I would like to say that you are getting a better car than me, and that makes me jealous. :angry:
Now, personally I would probabally go the route of the 325. I drove one and loved it. Even with the slushie its quick. Drives great. Feels solid. :)
Hey, you are not a 16 year old with a VOLVO WAGON. That is quite a hit in the ego sometimes.
Hell, I'm 17, not 16. Good lord, where's my head at?
QuoteHey, you are not a 16 year old with a VOLVO WAGON. That is quite a hit in the ego sometimes.
Let's not get into ego hits, shall we? :rolleyes:
Whats wrong with a Volvo Wagon :blink:
QuoteWhats wrong with a Volvo Wagon :blink:
Nothing, the lucky ones on the forum are simply making the rest of us feel insecure.
It's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
QuoteHey, you are not a 16 year old with a VOLVO WAGON. That is quite a hit in the ego sometimes.
You should consider yourself very lucky to have that nice of a car.
QuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
Well, yes, you are.
QuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
Well, yes, you are.
I agree!
If you don't want the Volvo, give it to me. I can put it to good use.
QuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
Well, yes, you are.
I agree!
If you don't want the Volvo, give it to me. I can put it to good use.
Don't you have a new Passat? lol
QuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
QuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
Well, yes, you are.
I agree!
If you don't want the Volvo, give it to me. I can put it to good use.
You're even more spoiled. :rolleyes:
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
Well, yes, you are.
I agree!
If you don't want the Volvo, give it to me. I can put it to good use.
Don't you have a new Passat? lol
So then he'd have two cars instead of one car. Or one car and the thousands from selling the other one.
It's hard to pass up a free car.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
Well, yes, you are.
I agree!
If you don't want the Volvo, give it to me. I can put it to good use.
Don't you have a new Passat? lol
So then he'd have two cars instead of one car. Or one car and the thousands from selling the other one.
It's hard to pass up a free car.
Especiallty if you are a cheapskate. ;) :lol:
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
Well, yes, you are.
I agree!
If you don't want the Volvo, give it to me. I can put it to good use.
Don't you have a new Passat? lol
So then he'd have two cars instead of one car. Or one car and the thousands from selling the other one.
It's hard to pass up a free car.
True that. :rockon:
QuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
They offered to buy you a $14,000 car and you turned them down? And then you're calling other people spoiled?
QuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
They offered to buy you a $14,000 car and you turned them down? And then you're calling other people spoiled?
My first car was a Chevy Impala. I could never get comfortable in it, the seats made my back hurt, but it was better than the big red Chevy Venture, so I was all about it, lol.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
Well, yes, you are.
I agree!
If you don't want the Volvo, give it to me. I can put it to good use.
Don't you have a new Passat? lol
Passat's going back soon, and I can get a real sports car if I have a Volvo wagon at home.
Yea, my car is only worth like $3000 or $4000. It has an auto too, which is for the better, it would be in the shop right now if it had a manual. That would be way too much for my sister to handle.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
Well, yes, you are.
I agree!
If you don't want the Volvo, give it to me. I can put it to good use.
You're even more spoiled. :rolleyes:
I never said that I wasn't. Who knows spoiled better than a spoiled kid?
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
They offered to buy you a $14,000 car and you turned them down? And then you're calling other people spoiled?
My first car was a Chevy Impala. I could never get comfortable in it, the seats made my back hurt, but it was better than the big red Chevy Venture, so I was all about it, lol.
Did you have to pay for it yourself? I think not, so in my book that makes you a spoiled (especially since it must have been fairly new and it was well equipped).
QuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
They offered to buy you a $14,000 car and you turned them down? And then you're calling other people spoiled?
actually, they want me to get a used one for about $5000. I never said it was new, U-Haul. And for that money, i could get an MK1 MR-2.
QuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
You aren't getting any sympathy from me, a free first car is more than any teenager deserves (and that is coming from a teenager!)
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
They offered to buy you a $14,000 car and you turned them down? And then you're calling other people spoiled?
My first car was a Chevy Impala. I could never get comfortable in it, the seats made my back hurt, but it was better than the big red Chevy Venture, so I was all about it, lol.
Did you have to pay for it yourself? I think not, so in my book that makes you a spoiled (especially since it must have been fairly new and it was well equipped).
Someone sounds bitter. <_<
QuoteYea, my car is only worth like $3000 or $4000. It has an auto too, which is for the better, it would be in the shop right now if it had a manual. That would be way too much for my sister to handle.
The 850 T-5 wagon is one of the most coveted Volvos of all time. Suck it up.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
Well, yes, you are.
I agree!
If you don't want the Volvo, give it to me. I can put it to good use.
Don't you have a new Passat? lol
So then he'd have two cars instead of one car. Or one car and the thousands from selling the other one.
It's hard to pass up a free car.
Especiallty if you are a cheapskate. ;) :lol:
Free is free.
QuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
You aren't getting any sympathy from me, a free first car is more than any teenager deserves (and that is coming from a teenager!)
I don't need your sympathy. That's why i'm getting the bike, so i can save up for my own car that I will pay for by MYSELF.
My first car was a Buick Skyhawk T-Type, and I paid for it myself. :praise:
Its was a POS, but I was happy to have it. If I had an impala, Volvo V70, Passat, or whatever I would have been more than happy.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
You aren't getting any sympathy from me, a free first car is more than any teenager deserves (and that is coming from a teenager!)
I don't need your sympathy. That's why i'm getting the bike, so i can save up for my own car that I will pay for by MYSELF.
Then why are you complaining about your parents offering "just" a Corolla? :rolleyes:
QuoteMy first car was a Buick Skyhawk T-Type, and I paid for it myself. :praise:
Its was a POS, but I was happy to have it. If I had an impala, Volvo V70, Passat, or whatever I would have been more than happy.
I only disliked the Impala because it killed my back. But I couldn't afford a car of my own. So I went with it and appreciated it none the less. No matter what, it was still painful to drive, free or not.
QuoteYea, my car is only worth like $3000 or $4000. It has an auto too, which is for the better, it would be in the shop right now if it had a manual. That would be way too much for my sister to handle.
More like $7000-$8000 unless it is in just really bad shape (top value for an average condition 850 is $8600, for an excellent it is $10,000). Also, the 850-R was auto only.
QuoteMy first car was a Buick Skyhawk T-Type, and I paid for it myself. :praise:
Its was a POS, but I was happy to have it. If I had an impala, Volvo V70, Passat, or whatever I would have been more than happy.
Glad to hear that I am not the only one stuck with cheap parents ;) :lol:. I don't have a problem with kids getting nice cars, but I do have a problem with them complaining about those cars.
Man I need a job so I dont have to get some auto-econobox from my parents.
QuoteQuoteMy first car was a Buick Skyhawk T-Type, and I paid for it myself. :praise:
Its was a POS, but I was happy to have it. If I had an impala, Volvo V70, Passat, or whatever I would have been more than happy.
Glad to hear that I am not the only one stuck with cheap parents ;) :lol:. I don't have a problem with kids getting nice cars, but I do have a problem with them complaining about those cars.
I was raised by cheap parents, look where it's gotten me. :(
They want me to have one of their cars (nominally so they can justify the repairs they put into it, officially so that they can use it when they want but not have it clutter their own driveway) but they still expect me to pay for it.
At least it's cheap. :rockon:
O crap, I never would have thought it was worth up to $8000, let alone 10 grand.
QuoteMan I need a job so I dont have to get some auto-econobox from my parents.
Man, I need to shave.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
You aren't getting any sympathy from me, a free first car is more than any teenager deserves (and that is coming from a teenager!)
I don't need your sympathy. That's why i'm getting the bike, so i can save up for my own car that I will pay for by MYSELF.
Then why are you complaining about your parents offering "just" a Corolla? :rolleyes:
Because, i don't want an auto, FWD car. I want an MR2 MK1 with the 5-speed. then i can go drifting. :praise:
QuoteQuoteMy first car was a Buick Skyhawk T-Type, and I paid for it myself. :praise:
Its was a POS, but I was happy to have it. If I had an impala, Volvo V70, Passat, or whatever I would have been more than happy.
Glad to hear that I am not the only one stuck with cheap parents ;) :lol:. I don't have a problem with kids getting nice cars, but I do have a problem with them complaining about those cars.
Parents ween't cheap, they just couldn't afford something like that back then.
My mom recently bought a Tiburon (5MT) for my brother for around 8k. I am sure if they could have afforded that for me when I was his age they would have.
QuoteQuoteMan I need a job so I dont have to get some auto-econobox from my parents.
Man, I need to shave.
9 o clock shadow?
While we're on the subject...
Yes, I am spoiled.
BTW, I had two options. I could either have spent around ~$20K on a car and it would have been 100% mine. I chose to take the other choice and get a brand-new A4 or E90 that's still technically my dad's car and trade every now and then with him since he likes to drive a fun car and give me the X3 every once in a while. I told my dad that under this option, I wanna buy it off of him when I'm done with undergrad and I get a real job. I don't know if he's going to let me pay a cent, but whatever.
Wow, I just realized that the 325i and the X3 2.5i (My dad's car) have the EXACT same MSRP.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
You aren't getting any sympathy from me, a free first car is more than any teenager deserves (and that is coming from a teenager!)
I don't need your sympathy. That's why i'm getting the bike, so i can save up for my own car that I will pay for by MYSELF.
Then why are you complaining about your parents offering "just" a Corolla? :rolleyes:
Because, i don't want an auto, FWD car. I want an MR2 MK1 with the 5-speed. then i can go drifting. :praise:
Once again, you're complaining about your parents not offering you a better car.
Moreover, they seem to have a very logical approach there. You wouldn't be encouraged to behave unsafely in a boring automatic economy sedan.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
You aren't getting any sympathy from me, a free first car is more than any teenager deserves (and that is coming from a teenager!)
I don't need your sympathy. That's why i'm getting the bike, so i can save up for my own car that I will pay for by MYSELF.
Then why are you complaining about your parents offering "just" a Corolla? :rolleyes:
Because, i don't want an auto, FWD car. I want an MR2 MK1 with the 5-speed. then i can go drifting. :praise:
Once again, you're complaining about your parents not offering you a better car.
No, he's complaining about his parents not letting him get something he'd like a lot more with the same money.
It isn't his money, it is their money therefore he has no right to complain.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's nerdy and not very cool. Hehe, I'm acting spoiled :rolleyes:
You ARE spoiled. My parents want me to get a Corolla. An automatic one at that. :( :(
You aren't getting any sympathy from me, a free first car is more than any teenager deserves (and that is coming from a teenager!)
I don't need your sympathy. That's why i'm getting the bike, so i can save up for my own car that I will pay for by MYSELF.
Then why are you complaining about your parents offering "just" a Corolla? :rolleyes:
Because, i don't want an auto, FWD car. I want an MR2 MK1 with the 5-speed. then i can go drifting. :praise:
Once again, you're complaining about your parents not offering you a better car.
No, he's complaining about his parents not letting him get something he'd like a lot more with the same money.
If they were telling him how to spend his $5,000, that's one thing. But he's telling them that the way they planned to spend their $5,000 on him just won't do because he can't drift a Corolla is being not only spoiled, but utterly juvenile and foolish.
QuoteMoreover, they seem to have a very logical approach there. You wouldn't be encouraged to behave unsafely in a boring automatic economy sedan.
That's an incorrect notion. If you're going to drive unsafely, you're going to do it whether you drive a 2002 E320 or a 1991 Buick Regal Custom.
QuoteQuoteMoreover, they seem to have a very logical approach there. You wouldn't be encouraged to behave unsafely in a boring automatic economy sedan.
That's an incorrect notion. If you're going to drive unsafely, you're going to do it whether you drive a 2002 E320 or a 1991 Buick Regal Custom.
Quotei don't want an auto, FWD car. I want an MR2 MK1 with the 5-speed. then i can go drifting.
It sounds to me like buying the sportier car would in fact lead to more-dangerous driving conditions.
Who says you can't drift in a Corolla?
QuoteWho says you can't drift in a Corolla?
Where's the sport in that? <_<
QuoteQuoteWho says you can't drift in a Corolla?
Where's the sport in that? <_<
I was actually looking for an '83-84 Corolla GTS.
QuoteQuoteQuoteMoreover, they seem to have a very logical approach there. You wouldn't be encouraged to behave unsafely in a boring automatic economy sedan.
That's an incorrect notion. If you're going to drive unsafely, you're going to do it whether you drive a 2002 E320 or a 1991 Buick Regal Custom.
Quotei don't want an auto, FWD car. I want an MR2 MK1 with the 5-speed. then i can go drifting.
It sounds to me like buying the sportier car would in fact lead to more-dangerous driving conditions.
He'll still drive unsafely in the Corolla, it just won't be as suited to it, and he'll probably fuck himself and the car up majorly. I remember what it's like to have just gotten your license, if. I know how kids can be, no matter what they drive. Remember that douche that killed himself racing an Explorer? You think the fact that the Explorer isn't suited to that kind of driving ever crossed his mind?
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteMoreover, they seem to have a very logical approach there. You wouldn't be encouraged to behave unsafely in a boring automatic economy sedan.
That's an incorrect notion. If you're going to drive unsafely, you're going to do it whether you drive a 2002 E320 or a 1991 Buick Regal Custom.
Quotei don't want an auto, FWD car. I want an MR2 MK1 with the 5-speed. then i can go drifting.
It sounds to me like buying the sportier car would in fact lead to more-dangerous driving conditions.
He'll still drive unsafely in the Corolla, it just won't be as suited to it, and he'll probably fuck himself and the car up majorly. I remember what it's like to have just gotten your license, if. I know how kids can be, no matter what they drive. Remember that douche that killed himself racing an Explorer? You think the fact that the Explorer isn't suited to that kind of driving ever crossed his mind?
What raza said. i'd probably drive the corolla even worse because i wouldn't really care about it, whereas if i had an mr2, i'd take more care in driving, etc.
QuoteQuoteWho says you can't drift in a Corolla?
Where's the sport in that? <_<
Well, there isn't much unless you go back before 1987 when they were rear wheel driven. Or, take out the HVAC system and other unnecessary heavy things in a new one and you may be able to drift :lol:
QuoteQuoteQuoteWho says you can't drift in a Corolla?
Where's the sport in that? <_<
Well, there isn't much unless you go back before 1987 when they were rear wheel driven. Or, take out the HVAC system and other unnecessary heavy things in a new one and you may be able to drift :lol:
handbrake drifts.
If your parents give you a car or offer to give you a car you have nothing to complain about. You don't deserve a $1500 car much less a $50,000 one.
QuoteIf your parents give you a car or offer to give you a car you have nothing to complain about. You don't deserve a $1500 car much less a $50,000 one.
shut up, Tim.
QuoteQuoteIf your parents give you a car or offer to give you a car you have nothing to complain about. You don't deserve a $1500 car much less a $50,000 one.
shut up, Tim.
You certainly dont seem trustworthy enough to be given the responsibility of driving...if you claim that you will drift "in any car you get, so you might as well get a good drifter" you are a very foolish and immature child. Bad driving doesnt only put you in danger, it also puts other people in danger.
QuoteQuoteQuoteIf your parents give you a car or offer to give you a car you have nothing to complain about. You don't deserve a $1500 car much less a $50,000 one.
shut up, Tim.
You certainly dont seem trustworthy enough to be given the responsibility of driving...if you claim that you will drift "in any car you get, so you might as well get a good drifter" you are a very foolish and immature child. Bad driving doesnt only put you in danger, it also puts other people in danger.
No, see, i'm not like Faris, who drifts on highways. I've always wanted to go to Laguna Seca for a weekend, and just drift the hell out of a car. I don't see myself doing that in a corolla, so i want an MR-2. Id be scared as hell drifting in traffic. :ph34r:
QuoteNo, see, i'm not like Faris, who drifts on highways.
Oh, God...
In case you were wondering, it wasn't on purpose. :ph34r:
The accident's main cause was inexperience (And slightly worn tires), not idiocy.
The scary thing is that I started driving like an idiot AFTER my near-fatal accident.
Shit, I pulled a perfect 180 skid to do a u-turn one time in the middle of a street when I had 4 friends with me in the car. Take my advice and never do stupid shit like that, even if there is no oncoming traffic. I was such a stupid fuck. There were times when, on the way to school, I'd weave through traffic at over 90MPH on the highway. I did it once in heavy rain. Funny thing is, my sister wouldn't even get scared anymore. She thought I was a skilled driver, even if she didn't like it. I honestly don't know if I was really skilled or just a very lucky fucktard.
After a while, I settled down. I stopped driving like an idiot COMPLETELY after Autobahn gave me that lecture and bashed the hell out of me on C/D. After that, the only time I ever drifted was in empty parking lots / completely empty roads by myself, making sure I'd never put anyone else's life in danger.
The thing that proves that I changed was that I trusted myself and my friends [and their parents] trusted me to drive them 50 miles on I-294 [A truly hard highway to drive on due to very high speed of traffic and a lot of construction and a lot of Semis] to Six Flags with 5 guys, and in a 4Runner.
Nearly a year later, I have one conviction on my record (Stupid turn signal ticket), I'm under supervision for speeding, and my insurance premium is a lot higher than I'd like it to be. I'd say, that given the way I used to drive, I got off lucky.
QuoteQuoteNo, see, i'm not like Faris, who drifts on highways.
Oh, God...
In case you were wondering, it wasn't on purpose. :ph34r:
it sure sounded like it was on purpose when you were bragging about it on C/D.
QuoteQuoteQuoteNo, see, i'm not like Faris, who drifts on highways.
Oh, God...
In case you were wondering, it wasn't on purpose. :ph34r:
it sure sounded like it was on purpose when you were bragging about it on C/D.
You're talking about the accident or what?
I never drifted on a highway. I thought you were referring to the accident...
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteNo, see, i'm not like Faris, who drifts on highways.
Oh, God...
In case you were wondering, it wasn't on purpose. :ph34r:
it sure sounded like it was on purpose when you were bragging about it on C/D.
You're talking about the accident or what?
I never drifted on a highway. I thought you were referring to the accident...
No, not the accident. On C/D one night, we all bashed you soundly after you bragged that you've done 180's in traffic, drifted on the highway at over 100 mph with 4 friends and the stereo blasting, yada yada yada...
I never did any of that, you must be mistaken.
I always made sure that when I did do stuff like that the road was clear, etc.
Still doesn't mean I wasn't a fucktard, though.
Shit, I've drifted on the highway before (it was more lift throttle oversteer at 110) but it was all good. I get the back end of my Passat out whenever I can (usually in the wet). without the handbrake. Stupid shit isn't stupid if you practice it first. If a kid tries to jump the wall and steal a home run, he'll probably break a wrist and bruise a rib. But Major Leaguers do it all the time.
Christ, you guys are crazy! I just drive really fast, I'v never done a 180 or any of that. :blink:
QuoteI never did any of that, you must be mistaken.
I always made sure that when I did do stuff like that the road was clear, etc.
Still doesn't mean I wasn't a fucktard, though.
nonono, you said that you've had the speakers blaring with 4 friends while drifting in heavy traffic and stuff. I remember it cause i was pretty surprised at you for doing htat.
QuoteChrist, you guys are crazy! I just drive really fast, I'v never done a 180 or any of that. :blink:
When your first car is a 221bhp sedan that is surprisingly fast and handles surprisingly well and you've taken some performance safety courses, done plenty of parking lot performance practice, you can be in control of the car quite easily. Lift throttle on the Passat is obviously a little harder, but with some prodding the back end likes to play around. It can also be done at low speeds, unlike rear drive drifts, unless you've Tiff Needell's Morris.
QuoteI never did any of that, you must be mistaken.
I always made sure that when I did do stuff like that the road was clear, etc.
Still doesn't mean I wasn't a fucktard, though.
HA! i got your post in which you got owned by Autobahn and you apologized to everyone...
Quote
A lot has changed since then. For one, I'll bet that when it comes to driving skill and car control, I'm in America's top 3%.
Ask my friends... I've pulled perfect drifts and snow skids with the stereo blasted and 5 people in the car. I've done 90MPH weaves in traffic on the highway that would leave most other people dead. I practiced my ass off after I got the A4 back, and it's paid off. I can shift without the clutch at any given time: Any gear, up or down.
That's how well I know my car.
I used to scare my sister silly with my 110+ bursts on the highway in the morning and my crazy drifts. She doesn't even care anymore.
And while I may do crazy shit, I'm not one to drive like a moron, push the limits, or act like an idiot.
That said, I need a cop radar, because one of these days I'm going to get pulled over for either reckless driving or excessive speeding, even though I'm still less of a hazard to other drivers than the soccer mom rumbling along at the speed limit in her huge-ass SUV.
I plan on taking some performance driving schools and such next summer. Which ones did you do? I am curious as to what you thought.
QuoteI plan on taking some performance driving schools and such next summer. Which ones did you do? I am curious as to what you thought.
I'm hoping to do Skip Barber or Bondurant, but so far other than drivers' ed, I've done a BMW thing where I go to tear apart and drift an X3.
So, anyhoo, back on topic; how were the test-drives? The weekend is up, what did you choose?
Quote
HA! i got your post in which you got owned by Autobahn and you apologized to everyone...
Right. I never drifted on the highway or in heavy traffic.
QuoteSo, anyhoo, back on topic; how were the test-drives? The weekend is up, what did you choose?
I didn't bother my dad about it yesterday or today, so nothing happened. However, I'm going to service the X3 tomorrow, so I might test-drive a 325i.
I know the feeling about bother my dad about buying a car. It took my dad a year or so to decide which car he wanted, most weekends I would bother him about buying a car.
Bring your camera to the dealer!
QuoteI know the feeling about bother my dad about buying a car. It took my dad a year or so to decide which car he wanted, most weekends I would bother him about buying a car.
Bring your camera to the dealer!
Amen that, I am also going to the Porsche dealer today to help my friend look for a used Porsche...you can expect lots of pictures, and I'm going to no less than three dealers, so you may perhaps be getting some of a GT3, GT2, or even a Carrera GT.
QuoteI know the feeling about bother my dad about buying a car. It took my dad a year or so to decide which car he wanted, most weekends I would bother him about buying a car.
Bring your camera to the dealer!
But that's about HIS car, not yours.
True
QuoteQuoteI know the feeling about bother my dad about buying a car. It took my dad a year or so to decide which car he wanted, most weekends I would bother him about buying a car.
Bring your camera to the dealer!
But that's about HIS car, not yours.
It's family, if. I was heavily involved in the buying of my mom's car, my brother's car, and my aunt's car, and I will be in my dad's next purchase, and finally, maybe, my own. Of course, no one listened to me in the end (I can't blame my brother, because I was 12 at the time, but as the years passed, he agreed with me), but it's still something that affects everyone, and the advice should be at least considered.
I practically did all of the shopping when we bought the Subaru, my dad sat in them at the auto show and decided that all of the ones I liked were too expensive but we did end up with my pick from the two finalists :)
My dad said to research all of the mid-size SUV's and told me to pick which one to buy.
When was that?
Exactly, my dad test drove the cars and such, but I told him all the facts, which one in other people's point of view is best etc. He was relying on my really, to tell him which car to buy. What bothered me is that he KNEW which one he was going to get for 3 months or so (after he said that he was going to get the 545i), he just put it off. That bothered me because the Infiniti M35x is a very popular car and will be hard to get the longer he waits, and I really wanted him to get the actual car before the summer started. That of course, did not happen, and he is getting the car at the very end of August. He was just putting it off for no reason which bothered me, so I bothered him. In the end, it I do not have full rights to the Volvo until he gets his car, and I wanted it for the summer.
My aunt is buying a new car soon, so I am sure going to be helping her with that :)
She's looking at the 3er, TL, etc.
QuoteExactly, my dad test drove the cars and such, but I told him all the facts, which one in other people's point of view is best etc. He was relying on my really, to tell him which car to buy. What bothered me is that he KNEW which one he was going to get for 3 months or so (after he said that he was going to get the 545i), he just put it off. That bothered me because the Infiniti M35x is a very popular car and will be hard to get the longer he waits, and I really wanted him to get the actual car before the summer started. That of course, did not happen, and he is getting the car at the very end of August. He was just putting it off for no reason which bothered me, so I bothered him.
Maybe he thinks he'll get a better deal that way.
He got $400 off the price...whatta deal! In all honesty, he should know, he's a smart man, that a brand new car is very tough to get a good deal on.
QuoteMy aunt is buying a new car soon, so I am sure going to be helping her with that :)
She's looking at the 3er, TL, etc.
One of my mom's friends is going to buy a new car soon and get to help her (she's in the process of getting divorced and needs something with better gas mileage than her '05 Suburban). I'll try to her into a GM, Ford, or Sonata but if that fails I'll probably be forced to recommend an Avalon :angry: :P
QuoteQuoteWhen was that?
2002
Good, because if it was recent you could've made a better choice ;) :lol:
QuoteQuoteExactly, my dad test drove the cars and such, but I told him all the facts, which one in other people's point of view is best etc. He was relying on my really, to tell him which car to buy. What bothered me is that he KNEW which one he was going to get for 3 months or so (after he said that he was going to get the 545i), he just put it off. That bothered me because the Infiniti M35x is a very popular car and will be hard to get the longer he waits, and I really wanted him to get the actual car before the summer started. That of course, did not happen, and he is getting the car at the very end of August. He was just putting it off for no reason which bothered me, so I bothered him.
Maybe he thinks he'll get a better deal that way.
He probably will. August is a notorious month for dealers giving away cars, basically. The new model year is coming in soon, or already trickling in, and they want to get the old models off their lot.
But the M was launched as an '06.
QuoteBut the M was launched as an '06.
Really?
Oh. Then. Well.
Summer is the best time to buy AWD cars.
QuoteQuoteQuoteWhen was that?
2002
Good, because if it was recent you could've made a better choice ;) :lol:
An SRX V6 would've been nice. :praise:
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteWhen was that?
2002
Good, because if it was recent you could've made a better choice ;) :lol:
An SRX V6 would've been nice. :praise:
Magnum
:rockon:
SUVs.. :blink: :rolleyes:
Car based SUVs.. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteWhen was that?
2002
Good, because if it was recent you could've made a better choice ;) :lol:
An SRX V6 would've been nice. :praise:
Magnum
:rockon:
SUVs.. :blink: :rolleyes:
Car based SUVs.. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
My dad deosnt' like chrysler... In fact, he doesn't like american brands at all, but i probably could've convinced him to get an SRX.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteWhen was that?
2002
Good, because if it was recent you could've made a better choice ;) :lol:
An SRX V6 would've been nice. :praise:
Magnum
:rockon:
SUVs.. :blink: :rolleyes:
Car based SUVs.. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
My dad deosnt' like chrysler... In fact, he doesn't like american brands at all, but i probably could've convinced him to get an SRX.
WRX Wagon, A6 Allroad, A4 Avant.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteWhen was that?
2002
Good, because if it was recent you could've made a better choice ;) :lol:
An SRX V6 would've been nice. :praise:
Magnum
:rockon:
Amen!
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteWhen was that?
2002
Good, because if it was recent you could've made a better choice ;) :lol:
An SRX V6 would've been nice. :praise:
Magnum
:rockon:
SUVs.. :blink: :rolleyes:
Car based SUVs.. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
My dad deosnt' like chrysler... In fact, he doesn't like american brands at all, but i probably could've convinced him to get an SRX.
WRX Wagon, A6 Allroad, A4 Avant.
and he wanted something with a 3rd seat. ;)
Althogh a WRX wagon would've been sweet. :praise:
Your daddy probably can't drive stick. Magnum would have been good.
I'm starting my E55 Estate penny jar now. If anyone wants to contribute...
QuoteYour daddy probably can't drive stick. Magnum would have been good.
I'm starting my E55 Estate penny jar now. If anyone wants to contribute...
:D
very nice Raza, beware of inflation though.
Didn't get the BMW serviced, no test drive.
QuoteDidn't get the BMW serviced, no test drive.
The car will get serviced eventually, you'll just have to be patient.
QuoteQuoteDidn't get the BMW serviced, no test drive.
The car will get serviced eventually, you'll just have to be patient.
I don't mind. The service dept. is booked for this week, and they were only taking appointments for next week. Meaning my mom'll service it (And me and my dad don't have to trade cars :lol: :praise:) since school will have started for me.
Your school starts NEXT WEEK!? I still have about 3.5-4 weeks of summer left!
QuoteYour school starts NEXT WEEK!? I still have about 3.5-4 weeks of summer left!
Same here.
School started here Monday.
You must have gotten out in May though. Is it starting to get colder there (Dave, Faris, or TBR) yet?
QuoteYou must have gotten out in May though. Is it starting to get colder there (Dave, Faris, or TBR) yet?
Not really, its raining a lot here now.
Yeah, it let out in mid-May, and it is still bloody hot here (91 degrees despite an afternoon shower earlier).
Damn, its a cool 76 today. The storming last weekend made the temperature cool off. Last time it was sunny, it was 98.
We're running a little cold, around 75 and change. But it's been raining on and off all day.
QuoteYou must have gotten out in May though. Is it starting to get colder there (Dave, Faris, or TBR) yet?
I got out Jun11.
Nope, still pretty much normal Chicago summer weather... High 80s.
And this year it's been a real drought.
QuoteYeah, it let out in mid-May, and it is still bloody hot here (91 degrees despite an afternoon shower earlier).
wow... Mid may? we got out a month later...
I saw one today on the highway in the opposite direction. It was the exact same color as the one I havce in my sig that I can't seem to figure out.
I'm thinking it's the graphite and that the grey takes a bluish tint in real life.
QuoteI saw one today on the highway in the opposite direction. It was the exact same color as the one I havce in my sig that I can't seem to figure out.
I'm thinking it's the graphite and that the grey takes a bluish tint in real life.
you should get black. :praise:
QuoteQuoteI saw one today on the highway in the opposite direction. It was the exact same color as the one I havce in my sig that I can't seem to figure out.
I'm thinking it's the graphite and that the grey takes a bluish tint in real life.
you should get black. :praise:
He should get monaco blue. B)
QuoteQuoteQuoteI saw one today on the highway in the opposite direction. It was the exact same color as the one I havce in my sig that I can't seem to figure out.
I'm thinking it's the graphite and that the grey takes a bluish tint in real life.
you should get black. :praise:
He should get monaco blue. B)
Monaco Blue (or Monacoblau) is the color of my 330i in GT4. Nice.
If I get a 330i, it'll be black (come to think of it, so would an RX-8)
Still waiting....
Actually haven't seen many new 3s around here. I saw one in black the other day and was pleasantly surprised by the fact that it really doesn't look any bigger than the previous-gen 3-Series in darker colors.
I want the color in my sig: Sparkling Graphite.
My dad still favors the Audi.
the bmw is the way to go.
I just saw a couple more new 3ers the other day.
Quotethe bmw is the way to go.
That's how I feel.
QuoteI just saw a couple more new 3ers the other day.
I've seen more '06 A4s than '06 3ers.
QuoteQuoteI just saw a couple more new 3ers the other day.
I've seen more '06 A4s than '06 3ers.
It's a 2 to 5 here. Not many new A4s on the road. Oddly enough, one of the two I saw was a stick 2.0T
QuoteQuoteI just saw a couple more new 3ers the other day.
I've seen more '06 A4s than '06 3ers.
So have I, but it's been out several months longer.
QuoteQuoteQuoteI just saw a couple more new 3ers the other day.
I've seen more '06 A4s than '06 3ers.
It's a 2 to 5 here. Not many new A4s on the road. Oddly enough, one of the two I saw was a stick 2.0T
The number of manual-transmission '06 325is in the Chicagoland area can still be counted on my fingers.
There's actually a good selection of '06 A4 6-Speeds.
I'm seeing an equal amount of A4s and 3ers.
I've seen 1 3er and 1 A4. I've seen about 4 A3's though.
QuoteI've seen 1 3er and 1 A4. I've seen about 4 A3's though.
I saw my first A3 on the road yesterday.
If they sell the A3 Sportback 3.2 Quattro with a stickshift here, I'll trade whatever car I have at the time for it.
Have you decided yet? I see in your sig it says coming soon so I guess you ordered a 3.
QuoteQuoteQuoteI just saw a couple more new 3ers the other day.
I've seen more '06 A4s than '06 3ers.
So have I, but it's been out several months longer.
I definitely see more 06 A4's than 06 3ers, they have simply been out longer.
As for your choice...you really can't go wrong either way. If I had to choose between and auto 325i and 6MT A4 2.0T I would take the A4. In fact one year ago that's exactly the decision I made in a 325i vs A4 1.8T choice.
QuoteQuoteI've seen 1 3er and 1 A4. I've seen about 4 A3's though.
I saw my first A3 on the road yesterday.
If they sell the A3 Sportback 3.2 Quattro with a stickshift here, I'll trade whatever car I have at the time for it.
just get a Rex wagon or an RX8
QuoteQuoteQuoteI've seen 1 3er and 1 A4. I've seen about 4 A3's though.
I saw my first A3 on the road yesterday.
If they sell the A3 Sportback 3.2 Quattro with a stickshift here, I'll trade whatever car I have at the time for it.
just get a Rex wagon or an RX8
I don't see myself realistically purchasing either. I had a talk with my dad, and we agreed that the inaccessibility of Mazda dealerships makes owning the RX-8 too much trouble when over half the year I'll be living in the middle of nowhere (but a middle of nowhere with a Benz and Bimmer and Triumph! dealership) getting to a Mazda dealer is too hard. Unless when I drive it it grabs a hold of me like the 350Z Roadster or Boxster S did, and the 330i doesn't, then I'll be in a tough spot.
Do you like the way the z roadsters rear end looks? I personally cant stand it.
QuoteDo you like the way the z roadsters rear end looks? I personally cant stand it.
I can stand it, but I certainly agree with you its not good looking. Somewhere between the transition from a hatchback/fastback coupe to roadster, something went wrong. And many coupes dont translate well into roadsters.
QuoteQuoteDo you like the way the z roadsters rear end looks? I personally cant stand it.
I can stand it, but I certainly agree with you its not good looking. Somewhere between the transition from a hatchback/fastback coupe to roadster, something went wrong. And many coupes dont translate well into roadsters.
It's all fat and bloated. the one ion my sig 0wns though. :praise:
QuoteDo you like the way the z roadsters rear end looks? I personally cant stand it.
Yes, I do. It doesn't look bad with the top up, either, though not as purely designed as the S2000's top, but the design is beautiful, though not as artful as the TT. I really love it.
QuoteQuoteDo you like the way the z roadsters rear end looks? I personally cant stand it.
Yes, I do. It doesn't look bad with the top up, either, though not as purely designed as the S2000's top, but the design is beautiful, though not as artful as the TT. I really love it.
have you ever driven an S2K?
QuoteQuoteQuoteDo you like the way the z roadsters rear end looks? I personally cant stand it.
Yes, I do. It doesn't look bad with the top up, either, though not as purely designed as the S2000's top, but the design is beautiful, though not as artful as the TT. I really love it.
have you ever driven an S2K?
Not yet. I haven't been to a Honda dealer that isn't full of assholes.
Is the S2000 on your consideration list for your next car?
QuoteIs the S2000 on your consideration list for your next car?
i hope so. It's better than the Z.
It's like a more powerful miata, from what i've heard.
QuoteIs the S2000 on your consideration list for your next car?
In passing. I prefer the Z's torquey six to the high revving four of the S2000. Plus, the 350Z's got a better interior, and more power, more room, and it's more stylish.
QuoteQuoteIs the S2000 on your consideration list for your next car?
In passing. I prefer the Z's torquey six to the high revving four of the S2000. Plus, the 350Z's got a better interior, and more power, more room, and it's more stylish.
You think the Z has a better interior? :o
Will you drive it before deciding?
QuoteQuoteQuoteIs the S2000 on your consideration list for your next car?
In passing. I prefer the Z's torquey six to the high revving four of the S2000. Plus, the 350Z's got a better interior, and more power, more room, and it's more stylish.
You think the Z has a better interior? :o
Yes--the materials are roughly the same, and the design of the 350 is better. It's also roomier, much roomier. And that matters. I've wide shoulders.
QuoteWill you drive it before deciding?
Of course.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIs the S2000 on your consideration list for your next car?
In passing. I prefer the Z's torquey six to the high revving four of the S2000. Plus, the 350Z's got a better interior, and more power, more room, and it's more stylish.
You think the Z has a better interior? :o
Yes--the materials are roughly the same, and the design of the 350 is better. It's also roomier, much roomier. And that matters. I've wide shoulders.
nooo... The Z's interior is cheap and plasticky. The s2k's is simple.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIs the S2000 on your consideration list for your next car?
In passing. I prefer the Z's torquey six to the high revving four of the S2000. Plus, the 350Z's got a better interior, and more power, more room, and it's more stylish.
You think the Z has a better interior? :o
Yes--the materials are roughly the same, and the design of the 350 is better. It's also roomier, much roomier. And that matters. I've wide shoulders.
nooo... The Z's interior is cheap and plasticky. The s2k's is simple.
And full of cheap plastics.
Have you been in either? Did some real dash stroking? The 350Z, post 2003, is much better than it used to be.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIs the S2000 on your consideration list for your next car?
In passing. I prefer the Z's torquey six to the high revving four of the S2000. Plus, the 350Z's got a better interior, and more power, more room, and it's more stylish.
You think the Z has a better interior? :o
Yes--the materials are roughly the same, and the design of the 350 is better. It's also roomier, much roomier. And that matters. I've wide shoulders.
nooo... The Z's interior is cheap and plasticky. The s2k's is simple.
And full of cheap plastics.
Have you been in either? Did some real dash stroking? The 350Z, post 2003, is much better than it used to be.
I sat in both, and I love the S2k's much better. The door cover on the Z broke off because its just a cheap, brittle piece of plastic.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIs the S2000 on your consideration list for your next car?
In passing. I prefer the Z's torquey six to the high revving four of the S2000. Plus, the 350Z's got a better interior, and more power, more room, and it's more stylish.
You think the Z has a better interior? :o
Yes--the materials are roughly the same, and the design of the 350 is better. It's also roomier, much roomier. And that matters. I've wide shoulders.
nooo... The Z's interior is cheap and plasticky. The s2k's is simple.
And full of cheap plastics.
Have you been in either? Did some real dash stroking? The 350Z, post 2003, is much better than it used to be.
I sat in both, and I love the S2k's much better. The door cover on the Z broke off because its just a cheap, brittle piece of plastic.
What year?
I personally prefer the s2k over the z roadster but i have a slight problem: I'm 6'1 and dont fit comfortably :)
QuoteI personally prefer the s2k over the z roadster but i have a slight problem: I'm 6'1 and dont fit comfortably :)
Same here. I'd take an S2K over a Z any day of the week. But same problem: I don't fit very comfortably.
QuoteQuoteI personally prefer the s2k over the z roadster but i have a slight problem: I'm 6'1 and dont fit comfortably :)
Same here. I'd take an S2K over a Z any day of the week. But same problem: I don't fit very comfortably.
Tough luck. Miata's are even smaller. I saw a guy get stuck in the 700,000th Miata ever made. HIs friend had to come and wedge him out of the car. :rolleyes: :lol:
QuoteQuoteQuoteI personally prefer the s2k over the z roadster but i have a slight problem: I'm 6'1 and dont fit comfortably :)
Same here. I'd take an S2K over a Z any day of the week. But same problem: I don't fit very comfortably.
Tough luck. Miata's are even smaller. I saw a guy get stuck in the 700,000th Miata ever made. HIs friend had to come and wedge him out of the car. :rolleyes: :lol:
I tried to sit in a Miata once... It hurt.
Although I can't believe how fun it must be to drive a car of that size.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI personally prefer the s2k over the z roadster but i have a slight problem: I'm 6'1 and dont fit comfortably :)
Same here. I'd take an S2K over a Z any day of the week. But same problem: I don't fit very comfortably.
Tough luck. Miata's are even smaller. I saw a guy get stuck in the 700,000th Miata ever made. HIs friend had to come and wedge him out of the car. :rolleyes: :lol:
I tried to sit in a Miata once... It hurt.
Although I can't believe how fun it must be to drive a car of that size.
Have you tried to sit in a Z4 or the new SLK? I would guess they are a bit roomier.
I'm 5'10" so I fit perfectly in just about any car. However I have a tall cousin (~6'4") and it was funny as heck watching him drive in my Z3. :lol:
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIs the S2000 on your consideration list for your next car?
In passing. I prefer the Z's torquey six to the high revving four of the S2000. Plus, the 350Z's got a better interior, and more power, more room, and it's more stylish.
You think the Z has a better interior? :o
Yes--the materials are roughly the same, and the design of the 350 is better. It's also roomier, much roomier. And that matters. I've wide shoulders.
nooo... The Z's interior is cheap and plasticky. The s2k's is simple.
And full of cheap plastics.
Have you been in either? Did some real dash stroking? The 350Z, post 2003, is much better than it used to be.
I sat in both, and I love the S2k's much better. The door cover on the Z broke off because its just a cheap, brittle piece of plastic.
What year?
'04.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI personally prefer the s2k over the z roadster but i have a slight problem: I'm 6'1 and dont fit comfortably :)
Same here. I'd take an S2K over a Z any day of the week. But same problem: I don't fit very comfortably.
Tough luck. Miata's are even smaller. I saw a guy get stuck in the 700,000th Miata ever made. HIs friend had to come and wedge him out of the car. :rolleyes: :lol:
I tried to sit in a Miata once... It hurt.
Although I can't believe how fun it must be to drive a car of that size.
Have you tried to sit in a Z4 or the new SLK? I would guess they are a bit roomier.
I'm 5'10" so I fit perfectly in just about any car. However I have a tall cousin (~6'4") and it was funny as heck watching him drive in my Z3. :lol:
Yeah, I fit well into those cars. I actually don't sit very far back. I sit a lot more forward than my height would suggest. But I'm still way too big for a Miata, etc.
Z4... There's a part of me that would do anything for one. I really don't need a sedan... I'm moving downtown next year...
I'm gonna try to convince my dad to let me get a Z4 2.5i... Not gonna happen but it's worth a failing effort.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIs the S2000 on your consideration list for your next car?
In passing. I prefer the Z's torquey six to the high revving four of the S2000. Plus, the 350Z's got a better interior, and more power, more room, and it's more stylish.
You think the Z has a better interior? :o
Yes--the materials are roughly the same, and the design of the 350 is better. It's also roomier, much roomier. And that matters. I've wide shoulders.
nooo... The Z's interior is cheap and plasticky. The s2k's is simple.
And full of cheap plastics.
Have you been in either? Did some real dash stroking? The 350Z, post 2003, is much better than it used to be.
I sat in both, and I love the S2k's much better. The door cover on the Z broke off because its just a cheap, brittle piece of plastic.
What year?
'04.
Did you do some real dash stroking? Because if you had, you'd have seen that the difference between the two is minimal.
The Z4 3.0i is still a possibility, I imagine. I'd prefer it over the Z.
I'm probably getting the 3 very soon... As early as tomorrow.
QuoteI'm probably getting the 3 very soon... As early as tomorrow.
Wow, be sure to post some pictures! :)
Go Faris! B) :rockon:
QuoteQuoteI'm probably getting the 3 very soon... As early as tomorrow.
Wow, be sure to post some pictures! :)
lol don't worry. But that's if I can catch it at home... My dad's likely gonna toss me the X3 for a while and claim it for himself right when he sees it (Can't blame him, his everyday trip to work is a great drive). And he's gonna do that a lot. I made him promise that it's ALL MINE when it's college time next year. I'm not driving an X3 downtown.
I guess that's good... Means I don't have to break it in. :lol:
I currently have a gas allowance though... He better increase it if I'm gonna drive the X3 as opposed to my A4 or the 325.
Called my uncle (I'm going with him since he knows a manager at the BMW dealership)...
Looks like I'm going tomorrow...
The prospect of an '06 325i in the driveway is... great.
It's great being a spoiled brat with high ACT scores.
QuoteCalled my uncle (I'm going with him since he knows a manager at the BMW dealership)...
Looks like I'm going tomorrow...
The prospect of an '06 325i in the driveway is... great.
It's great being a spoiled brat with high ACT scores.
:lol: Good luck tomorrow :)
Black or gray. And black or terra (?) interior. :praise:
Jeezus, you're spoiled.
Congrats anyway. :praise:
QuoteJeezus, you're spoiled.
Congrats anyway. :praise:
And your not ;) (joking of course)
I wish I'd been spoiled. :( :P
And I can't even afford a 10 year old Maxima... ;) :lol:
QuoteAnd I can't even afford a 10 year old Maxima... ;) :lol:
Neither can I. :lol:
I want the color in my sig (I think it's Graphite) and a beige leatherette or gray leather interior.
Here's the deal: I can get whatever I want to as long as I end up paying my car (trade) +$25K.
You should've gotten an elise...
QuoteYou should've gotten an elise...
If $25K over my Audi would get me an Elise, the thought MIGHT cross my mind.
But I have no idea how I'd survive in an Elise through Chicago winters. And driving that thing downtown would be a pain in the ass.
Funny thing is a few days back my dad was talking about waiting for the Xi's to come out.
I told him I'd take an A4 over a 325xi any day of the week.
QuoteQuoteYou should've gotten an elise...
If $25K over my Audi would get me an Elise, the thought MIGHT cross my mind.
But I have no idea how I'd survive in an Elise through Chicago winters. And driving that thing downtown would be a pain in the ass.
why would it be a pain? it's so small....
How much did you get for the Audi?
The Elise has a very narrow powerband, no luggage room, a high noise level, and a rough ride, you would have to be insane (or Raza ;)) to use one as a daily driver.
QuoteThe Elise has a very narrow powerband, no luggage room, a high noise level, and a rough ride, you would have to be insane (or Raza ;)) to use one as a daily driver.
I would use one as a daily driver. I don't mind stiff suspension.
That is easy for you to say when there is no chance you will have the opprotunity to use one as a daily driver in the near future.
QuoteThat is easy for you to say when there is no chance you will have the opprotunity to use one as a daily driver in the near future.
I say that because every car i've been in/driven has felt a bit wallowy, even the RX-8.
Have you driven any of those cars on a daily basis? Nope. Shut-up until you get some real experience.
QuoteHave you driven any of those cars on a daily basis? Nope. Shut-up until you get some real experience.
Maybe you just don't know me....
I think I know you well enough to determine how stupid you are being here. You can't make a claim like you did until you have experience to back it up. Yes, I have no more experience than you do, but I don't go around making idiotic statements either (for the most part anyway ;)).
QuoteI think I know you well enough to determine how stupid you are being here. You can't make a claim like you did until you have experience to back it up. Yes, I have no more experience than you do, but I don't go around making idiotic statements either (for the most part anyway ;)).
if you say so...
QuoteThe Elise has a very narrow powerband, no luggage room, a high noise level, and a rough ride, you would have to be insane (or Raza ;)) to use one as a daily driver.
:praise:
True.
Not that they are necessarly mutually exclusive...
;) :lol:
Wow Tim that was mean...
Trust me Ragh... Once you start driving on an everyday basis, especially if you live downtown (I will most likely be next year), you'll never even consider an Elise even if you can easily afford one.
My A4 annoyed me downtown... Mainly because of Turbo lag, and that's not nearly as bad as the Elise's power band...
That's actually one of the reasons I'm going for the Bimmer... I'd rather have a straight-six than a turbo four for downtown driving. The Audi's power is awesome, but only after 2000RPM.
I thought the new 2.0t was pretty much lag free?
QuoteNot that they are necessarly mutually exclusive...
;) :lol:
Also true.
:praise:
QuoteI thought the new 2.0t was pretty much lag free?
No turbo is lag free.
That being said I drive through heavy traffic almost everyday and it doesn't bother me. The 2.0T supposedly has less lag than the 1.8T.
I'm with 850csi on this though. I would love to own an Elise, but not as a daily driver. I appreciate the refinement of my A4 over my mother's TSX. Going to an Elise would just be crazy for me. :P
Obviously it is still going to have some turbo lag, but I thought that it was barely noticeable in the 2.0t.
QuoteObviously it is still going to have some turbo lag, but I thought that it was barely noticeable in the 2.0t.
Depends on your definition of barely noticable.
Its not necessarily the lag that is going to be noticable, more likely its those times when he is under 2k RPMs (in traffic for instance).
QuoteWow Tim that was mean...
Trust me Ragh... Once you start driving on an everyday basis, especially if you live downtown (I will most likely be next year), you'll never even consider an Elise even if you can easily afford one.
My A4 annoyed me downtown... Mainly because of Turbo lag, and that's not nearly as bad as the Elise's power band...
That's actually one of the reasons I'm going for the Bimmer... I'd rather have a straight-six than a turbo four for downtown driving. The Audi's power is awesome, but only after 2000RPM.
I guess if you've had a rough day at work, you wouldn't want a car that beats you up again, but i don't care. Besides, i love small cars, and driving SUV's, etc, is really scares me.
SUV's really arent that bad. I obviously prefer cars but sometimes i like the height of SUV's heh
QuoteSUV's really arent that bad. I obviously prefer cars but sometimes i like the height of SUV's heh
I prefer something that's more enclosed, not like a huge SUV cabin...
The second car I ever drove was an SUV, a 1997 or 98 Mountaineer. I was 12 at the time, so it seemed massive. I don't like them, not because of size, but because of dynamic incapability.
QuoteCalled my uncle (I'm going with him since he knows a manager at the BMW dealership)...
Looks like I'm going tomorrow...
The prospect of an '06 325i in the driveway is... great.
::waits::
QuoteThe second car I ever drove was an SUV, a 1997 or 98 Mountaineer. I was 12 at the time, so it seemed massive. I don't like them, not because of size, but because of dynamic incapability.
wow, you got to drive so early??? lucky.
Not gonna happen, because I don't want it to.
Here's what went down...
I went that night with my uncle to a local dealer... They had a 6MT S.Graphite (my color of choice) 325i with Sport Package... Not gonna happen. I'm not driving in Chicago with performance tires. The sticker on that car was $33K.
They have another more basic model coming on soon with a $31.5K sticker.
Black book value on my A4 is only 4,300 and even less since mine's a stick. I'm gonna be lucky to get anything near $5K for it on a trade-in. I'm probably gonna sell it myself, looking for around 7-8K (And probably not gonna get it).
However, none of that had anything to do with my decision.
I gave it some thought, and I just felt wrong walking out of the dealership that night even not having bought or even testdrove anything...
The basic thought?
Who the fuck am I to be driving a $30K+ car?
I mean, okay, so I got a top 1% score on a highly overrated test (and not really out of my own hard work; I didn't really study that hard, else I might have pulled a 35 or 36). Big Deal. How does that make me successful in life?
I already feel guilty about the fact that my dad is likely going to be paying $30K+ a year to send me off to college since my #1 choice, Northwestern, doesn't grant merit-based scholarships, and I won't get a penny of Financial Aid from the government. My parents would shoot me even if I became crazy enough and tried to take out a student loan.
If I came home one day and found a new 325i in the driveway and my dad came out and said "it's yours", I might just be fine with it. But the fact that I'm asking for a car that I really feel I have done nothing special to deserve is bothering me.
I made the decision to cut the amount I'm spending on my new car to nearly half of the ~$32K I was gonna spend on a new 3.
In short, I'm now looking for a nice luxury sedan/coupe for around $17-$18K under Certified Pre-Owned Warranty. I'll make it even more clear:
I want a 325Ci. I do NOT want an E46 sedan.
I found one I really like:
2001 BMW 325Ci 5MT (http://www.autotrader.com/dealers/dda/detail.jsp?car_id=188651500&dealer_id=45445211&car_year=2001&sort_type=make_modelASC&dealership_view_name=carsourceusa&cardist=null#vdptop)
Whaddya guys think?
It appears to be in excellent condition with 50K miles and another 50K or two years until the warranty expires. Of course, reliability is a concern, but E46s are generallly known to have been mechanically excellent (Correct me if I'm wrong) and plagued by relatively rare electrical gremlins here and there.
I could probably get that car for around $18K or even closer to $17K. If it was my decision to make right away, I'd run a carfax on it, and have my uncle go over it and check it out. I'd buy the damn thing in a heartbeat.
QuoteThe second car I ever drove was an SUV, a 1997 or 98 Mountaineer. I was 12 at the time, so it seemed massive. I don't like them, not because of size, but because of dynamic incapability.
I took my Mom's 4Runner out today... I was REALLY worried about the enormous blindspots for the first few miles but you get used to it really fast. The only other worry you have when driving those things is how vague steering is.
Hmm you know what... An '02 A4 might not be such a bad idea... Especially if I can get a 3.0 quattro for a good price...
Hmm... 3.0s are too expensive...
Mtl_A4... How's your A4 treating you? Have you ever driven any models of the previous bodystyle (like mine)? How do they compare?
'02 A4 1.8T (http://cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp?tracktype=usedcc&searchType=21&paId=176054028&pageNumber=1&numResultsPerPage=50&largeNumResultsPerPage=0&sortorder=ascending&sortfield=PRICE+ascending%2CDISPLAY_BODYSTYLE+ascending&certifiedOnly=false&recnum=55&leadExists=true&criteria=K-%7CE-%7CM-_4_%7CD-_21_%7CN-N%7CR-30%7CI-1%7CP-PRICE+ascending%2CDISPLAY_BODYSTYLE+ascending%7CQ-ascending%7CZ-60527&aff=national)
^Crap... That thing weighs nearly 200lbs more than my car.
How exactly does Certified Pre-Owned work? Can you get your car certified and covered by warranty after the original?
How is that one 325 a CPO if its not being sold through a BMW dealership?
If you guys didn't get the clue, the chances of me buying another German car not covered under warranty are very slim.
*Confessions of a BMW troll...*
I never really liked the E46 sedan much... The design falls apart at the rear. The coupe, on the other hand, is a work of art...
(http://www.navidazimi.com/albums/bmw325/three_quarter_back.jpg)
wow, you went from $30k to $18k??? at least you understand the guilt feeling. I do to, just at a much, much lower level that the guys here don't understand. :rolleyes:
Yeah, i guess a 325Ci would be a good bet. Would you look at an S2000? Maybe a base RX-8?
Quotewow, you went from $30k to $18k??? at least you understand the guilt feeling. I do to, just at a much, much lower level that the guys here don't understand. :rolleyes:
Yeah, i guess a 325Ci would be a good bet. Would you look at an S2000? Maybe a base RX-8?
Its different feeling guilty about buying an expensive car. You were claiming in the Chat Thread a few days back that a 1985 Corolla was the best car you could buy when given 20K dollars. You know you wanted this issue to be settled and not come up again, and yet you keep mentioning it. If you want to respond to this, then do it in the chat thread, and lets not hijack this thread.
That said, a 325ci would be a nice bet for your money in the 18K range. Just to give you some other choices, you can look into buying a old BMW M3, BMW M Coupe, or Porsche Boxster for around that much money. But you'll be able to buy a fairly new and covered under warranty 325ci for around 18K.
Here is a 325ci Convertible for 14,999 in Rockwood, PA. I know thats not near where you live, but its still a example of what you would be able to get. Its got 47K and is only 14,999, in perfect condition inside and out:
(http://images.autotrader.com/images/2005/9/5/188/769/1770043446.188769719.IM1.03.565x421_A.562x421.jpg)
Here is a 2004 330ci going for 19K in Maryland, with 42K miles.
(http://images.autotrader.com/images/2005/9/7/188/459/1772604039.188459365.IM1.MAIN.565x421_A.562x421.jpg)
6 speed stick, great condition inside and out. I am sure there are deals like this nearer to where you live.
Here is one in Canton OH:
(http://images.autotrader.com/images/2005/9/4/188/725/1766109635.188725053.IM1.02.565x421_A.562x421.jpg)
17K with only about 8K miles.
Quote2004 BMW 330I, 8,685 mi, air bag, abs, ac, ps, cc, lthr, p/seats, p/windows, stereo, pdl, p/mirrors, $17,000, 606-341-2231
I'm going to look only for certified pre owned vehicles now.
Yeah, ok, let's not talk about this.
The last car seems like a great deal.
QuoteYeah, ok, let's not talk about this.
The last car seems like a great deal.
I agree, I dont know why its such a good deal. Its also relatively near Illonois, so Faris might be able to check it out. I think he should give the guy a call, and check it out. 8K miles is almost brand new.
QuoteHmm... 3.0s are too expensive...
Mtl_A4... How's your A4 treating you? Have you ever driven any models of the previous bodystyle (like mine)? How do they compare?
I've never driven your model of A4, but compared to a 325ci my A4 is a front-heavy understeering pig. :ph34r:
I think a CPO 325ci is a good bet, and it will indeed save you some nice coin. I wouldn't suggest getting a newer Audi. Its not going to perform any better than your current car, and you are taking a big chance on reliability with VW/Audi.
QuoteQuoteYeah, ok, let's not talk about this.
The last car seems like a great deal.
I agree, I dont know why its such a good deal. Its also relatively near Illonois, so Faris might be able to check it out. I think he should give the guy a call, and check it out. 8K miles is almost brand new.
is it a salvage?
QuoteQuoteYeah, ok, let's not talk about this.
The last car seems like a great deal.
I agree, I dont know why its such a good deal. Its also relatively near Illonois, so Faris might be able to check it out. I think he should give the guy a call, and check it out. 8K miles is almost brand new.
Actually, 8k is better than brand new. It's just been broken in!
Meh, I would have stuck with the 32K new 325i. Your choice though, have fun.
Grow up with this guilt shit. It's very "mature" of you, but if your parents are willing to pay for it, then get it. If you really like the 325Ci more, then get it, but don't make a decision out of guilt.
QuoteGrow up with this guilt shit. It's very "mature" of you, but if your parents are willing to pay for it, then get it. If you really like the 325Ci more, then get it, but don't make a decision out of guilt.
I don't think 'guilt' is the right word to describe it.
And there's a difference...
Had I bought the new '06, it wasn't really going to be MINE... I was still going to have to share it with my dad and I wasn't really MY car.
This would be MY car.
And you know what, I'd rather save the glory of driving off a lot with a $30K car for when it's actually MY money that's being spent.
Guys, some of those deals you're posting are quite simply unrealistic...
There's gotta be something up with those cars, they're too good to be true.
TMV private party value on a '01 325Ci is around $17-$18K.
QuoteGuys, some of those deals you're posting are quite simply unrealistic...
There's gotta be something up with those cars, they're too good to be true.
TMV private party value on a '01 325Ci is around $17-$18K.
I agree, man. Those deals are
way too good to be true. You probably open the door and find a gutted or water-damaged interior. Kudos to you on not making your parents spend all that cash despite what Raza says. You'll have plenty of other cars ahead of you that you can buy on your own. Make a nice, new 30K car a present to yourself somewhere down the road after college that's--what I plan to do. Best of luck with your purchase, whatever it may be.
Faris, will you look at an RX-8 or S2000?
QuoteFaris, will you look at an RX-8 or S2000?
RX-8s gas mileage automatically eliminates it, and I'm already having a tough enough time convincing my dad to let me get a coupe, a 2-Seater is out of the question.
TOO MANY DAMN AUTOMATICS...
BTW, how exactly does CPO work?
Can you get a car certified?
QuoteQuoteFaris, will you look at an RX-8 or S2000?
RX-8s gas mileage automatically eliminates it, and I'm already having a tough enough time convincing my dad to let me get a coupe, a 2-Seater is out of the question.
I thought you could get whatever you want? And besides, i think your dad would be more than happy to, as it'll cost a lot less than a new 3er.
QuoteBTW, how exactly does CPO work?
Can you get a car certified?
When you sell the car, i think they run an inspection on it, and if they need to, they'll fix minor parts, but if your car is crappy, then it doesn't become eligible to become CPO'd.
Quote
I thought you could get whatever you want?
If that was true, this is what I'd be buying:
THIS (http://autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=187780318&dealer_id=56776221&car_year=1991&make=ACURA&distance=0&lang=en&max_price=23000&model=NSX&end_year=2006&min_price=1&certified=&bkms=1126324183598&address=60527&search_type=both&advanced=&start_year=1981&isp=y&cardist=933#vdptop)
QuoteQuoteBTW, how exactly does CPO work?
Can you get a car certified?
When you sell the car, i think they run an inspection on it, and if they need to, they'll fix minor parts, but if your car is crappy, then it doesn't become eligible to become CPO'd.
I'm thinking more that if I buy an '01 or '02 325Ci that's not certified, if I CAN get it certified...
I'm assuming that I can if any of the original warranty is left?
QuoteGuys, some of those deals you're posting are quite simply unrealistic...
There's gotta be something up with those cars, they're too good to be true.
TMV private party value on a '01 325Ci is around $17-$18K.
I agree, man. Those deals are
way too good to be true. You probably open the door and find a gutted or water-damaged interior. Kudos to you on not making your parents spend all that cash despite what Raza says. You'll have plenty of other cars ahead of you that you can buy on your own. Make a nice, new 30K car a present to yourself somewhere down the road after college that's--what I plan to do. Best of luck with your purchase, whatever it may be.
QuoteQuote
I thought you could get whatever you want?
If that was true, this is what I'd be buying:
THIS (http://autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=187780318&dealer_id=56776221&car_year=1991&make=ACURA&distance=0&lang=en&max_price=23000&model=NSX&end_year=2006&min_price=1&certified=&bkms=1126324183598&address=60527&search_type=both&advanced=&start_year=1981&isp=y&cardist=933#vdptop)
I wouldn't. $18k is waay too low for a car with 19k miles on it. And besides, the seller thinks the NSX is AWD... :rolleyes:
QuoteQuoteQuoteBTW, how exactly does CPO work?
Can you get a car certified?
When you sell the car, i think they run an inspection on it, and if they need to, they'll fix minor parts, but if your car is crappy, then it doesn't become eligible to become CPO'd.
I'm thinking more that if I buy an '01 or '02 325Ci that's not certified, if I CAN get it certified...
I'm assuming that I can if any of the original warranty is left?
I dunno if you can get it certified, but you may be able to buy an extended warranty...
I kind of wish that I could get an '02 A4 but the fact that it's 200lbs heavier than my car and turbo lag from a 4-cyl. is extremely annoying downtown has basically eliminated it.
QuoteQuoteQuote
I thought you could get whatever you want?
If that was true, this is what I'd be buying:
THIS (http://autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=187780318&dealer_id=56776221&car_year=1991&make=ACURA&distance=0〈=en&max_price=23000&model=NSX&end_year=2006&min_price=1&certified=&bkms=1126324183598&address=60527&search_type=both&advanced=&start_year=1981&isp=y&cardist=933#vdptop)
I wouldn't. $18k is waay too low for a car with 19k miles on it. And besides, the seller thinks the NSX is AWD... :rolleyes:
Hmmm... Didn't see that.
You CAN get a ~'92 NSX with around 80-90k miles for around $20K, though.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteBTW, how exactly does CPO work?
Can you get a car certified?
When you sell the car, i think they run an inspection on it, and if they need to, they'll fix minor parts, but if your car is crappy, then it doesn't become eligible to become CPO'd.
I'm thinking more that if I buy an '01 or '02 325Ci that's not certified, if I CAN get it certified...
I'm assuming that I can if any of the original warranty is left?
I dunno if you can get it certified, but you may be able to buy an extended warranty...
3rd party warranties usually suck.
I would suggest RSX, but i'm afraid you'd think it's ricer-ish.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteBTW, how exactly does CPO work?
Can you get a car certified?
When you sell the car, i think they run an inspection on it, and if they need to, they'll fix minor parts, but if your car is crappy, then it doesn't become eligible to become CPO'd.
I'm thinking more that if I buy an '01 or '02 325Ci that's not certified, if I CAN get it certified...
I'm assuming that I can if any of the original warranty is left?
I dunno if you can get it certified, but you may be able to buy an extended warranty...
Aftermarket warranties usually suck.
Even from the manufacturere?
QuoteI would suggest RSX, but i'm afraid you'd think it's ricer-ish.
FWD.
QuoteQuoteI would suggest RSX, but i'm afraid you'd think it's ricer-ish.
FWD.
I'm surprised Rag would suggest that himself since he despises FWD. Maybe he's tired. :lol:
QuoteQuoteI would suggest RSX, but i'm afraid you'd think it's ricer-ish.
FWD.
Now THAT sire, is a valid reason. :praise:
What about an STi? Too ricer-ish?
QuoteQuoteQuoteI would suggest RSX, but i'm afraid you'd think it's ricer-ish.
FWD.
I'm surprised Rag would suggest that himself since he despises FWD. Maybe he's tired. :lol:
Not everyone hates FWD, i'm just running options by him.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI would suggest RSX, but i'm afraid you'd think it's ricer-ish.
FWD.
I'm surprised Rag would suggest that himself since he despises FWD. Maybe he's tired. :lol:
Not everyone hates FWD, i'm just running options by him.
Yeah, I know. What about a used G35, Faris?
Faris, get the car in my sig...
QuoteQuoteQuoteI would suggest RSX, but i'm afraid you'd think it's ricer-ish.
FWD.
Now THAT sire, is a valid reason. :praise:
What about an STi? Too ricer-ish?
I'm a dash-stroker.
However, I assure you, If I am successful, I will own an STi one day...
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI would suggest RSX, but i'm afraid you'd think it's ricer-ish.
FWD.
I'm surprised Rag would suggest that himself since he despises FWD. Maybe he's tired. :lol:
Not everyone hates FWD, i'm just running options by him.
Yeah, I know. What about a used G35, Faris?
I'll look at 'em, but even if I manage to like one enough to buy one, my dad'll be pretty upset once I get home and he finds out the damn thing's a ROCKET.
Okay, had one decisive talk with my dad before heading out to the used car lots tomorrow...
I'm going to spend up to or a bit over $15K over whatever my car gets (I would like to spend less, though... It all depends). Seeing that my car will get at least around $5K in any case, that means I have at least around $20K to spend (Wow, that's still a lot of cash...).
-No convertibles (I would kill for one, but my dad's not even willing to argue about it)
-No 2-Seaters
-Nothing too fast (0-60 slower than 6.5 is fine)
-MUST be under warranty
-Lower-Mileage cars preferred.
And the search begins...
I want a 325Ci with low miles.
I'll keep you guys updated.
After some research, I still like This (http://autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=188651500&dealer_id=45445211&car_year=2001&search_type=used&make=BMW&transmission=Manual&distance=25&model=325CI&address=60527&make2=&certified=&advanced=y&max_mileage=&max_price=&bkms=1126231588798&min_price=&end_year=2004&color=&start_year=2000&drive=&isp=y&engine=&doors=&fuel=&lang=en&cardist=7#vdptop) one more than anything else.
A bit older with a bit more mileage than I'd like, but its price reflects it... I might be able to steal that one for well under $18K.
You can get a car inspected and then get a warranty, which is pretty much all CPO means anyway.
What about an IS300?
QuoteWhat about an IS300?
That's a good choice. :praise:
what about a Supra?
Quotewhat about a Supra?
Quote-No 2-Seaters
-Nothing too fast (0-60 slower than 6.5 is fine)
-MUST be under warranty
:rolleyes:
QuoteWhat about an IS300?
I hate the old IS with a passion. Ugly on the outside, ugly on the inside.
What ever happened to that A6 you spoke about after you took your A4 for a spin? Is that not something you're interested in now?
I know both are automatic but what about a C43 AMG, or C36 AMG, or a last generation CLK?
Wowzers... (http://luxurymotors.com/inventory_detailed.php?id=11143A&nhs=0&make=BMW&model=530&ext_color=&stockno=&eyear=2006&syear=1940&eprice=&sprice=&keywords=&location=&type=&rtd=&ob=pr&desc=&t=2001+BMW+530)
If I can get a good warranty on that thing and it's clean (Pictures make it seem that the leather's in bad condition), it's likely mine.
I can get that car for CHEAP cash because I know the guy who owns that dealership.
QuoteWhat ever happened to that A6 you spoke about after you took your A4 for a spin? Is that not something you're interested in now?
Too frikkin heavy.
QuoteI know both are automatic but what about a C43 AMG, or C36 AMG, or a last generation CLK?
AMGs are too fast. And I'd take a 3-Series coupe over a last-gen CLK any day of the week.
QuoteWowzers... (http://luxurymotors.com/inventory_detailed.php?id=11143A&nhs=0&make=BMW&model=530&ext_color=&stockno=&eyear=2006&syear=1940&eprice=&sprice=&keywords=&location=&type=&rtd=&ob=pr&desc=&t=2001+BMW+530)
If I can get a good warranty on that thing and it's clean (Pictures make it seem that the leather's in bad condition), it's likely mine.
I can get that car for CHEAP cash because I know the guy who owns that dealership.
Looks nice, but since when do 530is have quad exhaust? <_<
QuoteQuoteWowzers... (http://luxurymotors.com/inventory_detailed.php?id=11143A&nhs=0&make=BMW&model=530&ext_color=&stockno=&eyear=2006&syear=1940&eprice=&sprice=&keywords=&location=&type=&rtd=&ob=pr&desc=&t=2001+BMW+530)
If I can get a good warranty on that thing and it's clean (Pictures make it seem that the leather's in bad condition), it's likely mine.
I can get that car for CHEAP cash because I know the guy who owns that dealership.
Looks nice, but since when do 530i's have quad exhaust? <_<
And since when do they have an M5 appearance package? ;)
I'm sure that's it, but it wasn't listed under packages/accessories.
QuoteQuoteGuys, some of those deals you're posting are quite simply unrealistic...
There's gotta be something up with those cars, they're too good to be true.
TMV private party value on a '01 325Ci is around $17-$18K.
I agree, man. Those deals are way too good to be true. You probably open the door and find a gutted or water-damaged interior. Kudos to you on not making your parents spend all that cash despite what Raza says. You'll have plenty of other cars ahead of you that you can buy on your own. Make a nice, new 30K car a present to yourself somewhere down the road after college that's--what I plan to do. Best of luck with your purchase, whatever it may be.
Right, because down the road, everyone who
wants to become successful
actually does become successful. All dreams come true. I'll buy myself a brand new Ferrari before my 30th birthday and I'll retire with my supermodel wife who is smart and funny too by the time I turn 35, and I'll live 3 months out of the year on my yacht, and the other nine I'll live in a 18,000 sq ft mansion that has a flat panel in every room.
:rolleyes:
I'm not saying the kid's gonna have the world by the balls or anything, but judging from his family's apparent wealth, his apparent intelligence, (and from his posts, I glean that he seems to be a responsible guy), I'd imagine that he'll do well enough to buy himself a new 3-series somewhere down the line. You don't have to be a millionaire to buy a 3-series, Raza.
QuoteI'm not saying the kid's gonna have the world by the balls or anything, but judging from his family's apparent wealth, his apparent intelligence, (and from his posts, I glean that he seems to be a responsible guy), I'd imagine that he'll do well enough to buy himself a new 3-series somewhere down the line. You don't have to be a millionaire to buy a 3-series, Raza.
You need at least 6 figures to pull that kind of car and live in a decent area. A 40K car isn't just a 40K car--it's also rent/mortgage, taxes, living expenses, et al. Living is fucking expensive. The first car I end up buying new on my own will no way be over 30 grand, even if I pull a good job out of college.
QuoteQuoteI'm not saying the kid's gonna have the world by the balls or anything, but judging from his family's apparent wealth, his apparent intelligence, (and from his posts, I glean that he seems to be a responsible guy), I'd imagine that he'll do well enough to buy himself a new 3-series somewhere down the line.? You don't have to be a millionaire to buy a 3-series, Raza.
You need at least 6 figures to pull that kind of car and live in a decent area. A 40K car isn't just a 40K car--it's also rent/mortgage, taxes, living expenses, et al. Living is fucking expensive. The first car I end up buying new on my own will no way be over 30 grand, even if I pull a good job out of college.
I said down the road after college, not
right after college. By the age of 30 maybe, and I said about 30K, not 40K he doesn't need the NAV and variable cruise for God sakes.
QuoteQuoteQuoteI'm not saying the kid's gonna have the world by the balls or anything, but judging from his family's apparent wealth, his apparent intelligence, (and from his posts, I glean that he seems to be a responsible guy), I'd imagine that he'll do well enough to buy himself a new 3-series somewhere down the line. You don't have to be a millionaire to buy a 3-series, Raza.
You need at least 6 figures to pull that kind of car and live in a decent area. A 40K car isn't just a 40K car--it's also rent/mortgage, taxes, living expenses, et al. Living is fucking expensive. The first car I end up buying new on my own will no way be over 30 grand, even if I pull a good job out of college.
I said down the road after college, not right after college. By the age of 30 maybe.
I guess you all think there are no complications in life. By the time most of us are 30, we've got another person or two to worry about and a family of our own. 30's so far down the road, we don't even know if we're going to see it. Damn it, live for the moment. Have you never listened to James Dean?
Oh, shut up Raza. Don't rain on his parade just because he has a conscience and didn't want to gouge his parents for 30K. So according to your logic, your parents must be making, oh... a quarter of a million to afford that E-Class, huh? Give me a break.
QuoteOh, shut up Raza. Don't rain on his parade just because he has a conscience and didn't want to gouge his parents for 30K. So according to your logic, your parents must be making, oh a quarter of a million to afford that E-Class, huh? Give me a break.
Pretty much, yeah. If they weren't making over a quarter of a million, how could they afford $2000 a month in car payments, plus insurance on four drivers, 2 under 25, a mortgage, utilities (which was over $1000 last month), and all the other expenses that go into running a household? Life's fucking expensive and we don't always get our way. I'm sorry a little
veritas et ratio gets you so flustered, but it's not cheap to own anything.
So what do you parents do anyway? I'm really curious, not just trying to be an ass.
QuoteSo what do you parents do anyway? I'm really curious, not just trying to be an ass.
Real estate management and development--in short, we've got our own business.
QuoteQuoteSo what do you parents do anyway? I'm really curious, not just trying to be an ass.
Real estate management and development--in short, we've got our own business.
Ah, very nice.
And just to clarify, I'm not suggesting that "we always get our way", and I don't really appreciate you implying that I'm being childish on the matter. Trust me, I'll have no trouble enjoying the finer things in life. I'm not busting my hump in college for mediocrity, my friend.
QuoteQuoteQuoteSo what do you parents do anyway? I'm really curious, not just trying to be an ass.
Real estate management and development--in short, we've got our own business.
Ah, very nice.
And just to clarify, I'm not suggesting that "we always get our way", and I don't really appreciate you implying that I'm being childish on the matter. Trust me, I'll have no trouble enjoying the finer things in life. I'm not busting my hump in college for mediocrity, my friend.
Yeah, sorry. I just took it as you attacking my stance, so I had to defend it, and it seems like everyone thinks we have certain guarentees in life when we really don't.
QuoteOh, shut up Raza. Don't rain on his parade just because he has a conscience and didn't want to gouge his parents for 30K. So according to your logic, your parents must be making, oh... a quarter of a million to afford that E-Class, huh? Give me a break.
I would never buy a car more than 40K if I was making a quater mil. Raza is right, life is too expensive to buy a car that nice with roughly 150K (after taxes) coming in each year. Also, the money you make right after college-the middle of your 30's is the MOST IMPORTANT to save because it goes the furthest in the long term.
Yes, it is good to be conservative with your income, but you certainly don't need to make $250,000+ a year to be able to afford a $40,000 car (depending on what area you live in, maybe in California where real estate prices are real high, but pretty much everywhere else $100,000 is plenty if your by yourself and $150,000 is plenty if you have a family).
Lots of people can afford expensive cars through the wonders of financing. It's simply a horrible mistake for many of them to do so.
Mustang?
No.
QuoteNo.
I think faris will agree too. <_<
QuoteLots of people can afford expensive cars through the wonders of financing. It's simply a horrible mistake for many of them to do so.
I agree with that, but in most areas there is no reason why a single person with 100k income can't afford a $40,000 car (actually, one could argue the same for someone with a 80k income). It isn't like with that much money you would barely be able to make ends meet or anything.
QuoteQuoteNo.
I think faris will agree too. <_<
Does it take less than 6.5 seconds to get to 60? I believe so. Did you even read his post?
The V6 would meet the requirement. But a Mustang sounds like the opposite of the 325Ci in everything but door count and price, I doubt it's what he'd want.
And TBR, people can technically afford a car whose MSRP represents a very large portion of their annual income. If I financed and cut down other expenses, I could be driving a 330i right now. But it wouldn't be too bright.
QuoteWowzers... (http://luxurymotors.com/inventory_detailed.php?id=11143A&nhs=0&make=BMW&model=530&ext_color=&stockno=&eyear=2006&syear=1940&eprice=&sprice=&keywords=&location=&type=&rtd=&ob=pr&desc=&t=2001+BMW+530)
If I can get a good warranty on that thing and it's clean (Pictures make it seem that the leather's in bad condition), it's likely mine.
I can get that car for CHEAP cash because I know the guy who owns that dealership.
Can you get a new steering wheel for it? :ph34r:
Other than the wheel, it looks pretty sweet. :D
And how can you have a car that's "too" fast? That's not possible! :P
QuoteThe V6 would meet the requirement. But a Mustang sounds like the opposite of the 325Ci in everything but door count and price, I doubt it's what he'd want.
And TBR, people can technically afford a car whose MSRP represents a very large portion of their annual income. If I financed and cut down other expenses, I could be driving a 330i right now. But it wouldn't be too bright.
I know, but it is ludicrous to say that you can't afford a $40,000 car if you don't make over $250,000. Frankly, I think it is much more irresponsible finiancially to rent on a longterm basis than it is to buy an expensive car.
Unrelated, but I'm inclined to agree.
Long-term renters puzzle me.
QuoteBTW, how exactly does CPO work?
Can you get a car certified?
Certified Pre Owned vehicles have to pass a lengthy inspection, after which they are certified by the dealer. They then come with a hefty warranty, but generally cost more than other used cars.
QuoteQuoteBTW, how exactly does CPO work?
Can you get a car certified?
Certified Pre Owned vehicles have to pass a lengthy inspection, after which they are certified by the dealer. They then come with a hefty warranty, but generally cost more than other used cars.
but are worth it too.
You guys have been arguing over this financing and crap when the solution is simple: 2 year lease. Case and point
There was a reason that 530i was so cheap...
Salvage title.
I was going to buy it and called the dealership to make sure it was available. This is Chicago's biggest dealership (One of the world's biggest). The salesman told me on the phone "It's available, but I'm gonna be honest with you: That thing has a salvage title; it was rebuilt by a body shop and they threw that M5 kit on there".
I'm still considering it, though...
Given the salvage title, I could get that car for $17K. It's not worth much more. It was involved in an accident, and the body shop threw on the M5 kit when they fixed it.
Both of my uncles are car wizards... One is saying that if it drives like a 5 should, there shouldn't be any real problem. Resale will suck, but I'm holding onto this car for a while. The other is saying it's not a good idea to buy a car that has a salvage title due to damage. He thinks that means it must have been nearly completely demolished.
I really don't know what to think... I mean, if even an Audi engineer drove my A4, they would never be able to tell that my car had terrible frame damage at the front. Some shops fix it right, and some others screw around.
I'll have to see.
325Ci is out mainly because it's going to cost $100 or more per 6-months to insure the damn thing over a normal 3-Series... aaargh...
Then again, isn't a car with a salvage title going to result in sky-high insurance rates? Or am I wrong...
Through my searches, I'm finding that BMWs hold their value ridiculously well...
It's looking like 530i from an auction. What do you guys think about that salvaged 530i?
It's so hard to say no to a car like that... M5 appearance with nearly every option on the list except for the auto...
Have you considered the E320's? I absolutly love that car and it seems like your in love with european cars as well. just a brainstorm
QuoteHave you considered the E320's? I absolutly love that car and it seems like your in love with european cars as well. just a brainstorm
Too many cars have been eliminated because of the Automatic Transmission. The E is another one.
It really depends on what the 530i looks likes/feels like in person. Go to the dealer and give it the proverbial kick of the tires, and take a good look at how all the exterior trim pieces are fitting. If the shop did a good job with replacing the panels/matching the colors, they likely did a good job all around. If you know a mechanic, try to drag him along to take a look. Personally, if I were you and the car seemed solid, I'd go for it. Especially now that you've ruled out the 3er coupe.
I see, well i personally loved the 325ci but not if its a huge premium in insurance. Well equipped cooper S, or is that too small?
QuoteI see, well i personally loved the 325ci but not if its a huge premium in insurance. Well equipped cooper S, or is that too small?
Too small. I'm a big guy.
As wierd as this may sound, I think I'm wanting an E90 again...
QuoteAs wierd as this may sound, I think I'm wanting an E90 again...
I think you need to take a step back, slap yourself a few times, and talk to your dad about this.
QuoteAs wierd as this may sound, I think I'm wanting an E90 again...
Dude, ask your dad what you think is best.
I'm surprised there is a "huge insurance premium" on a 325ci. When I checked here in Montreal there was no difference from a 325i or 325ci, and my A4 was about 50 bucks cheaper.
I pay about 2400 CAD a year BTW. My agent said about half of that is to cover theft.
The salvage title is a concern, but you are on a budget.
I know you don't want FWD, but maybe you should try it. You're not gonna be pushing it so hard that it woud really matter.
You can get a 9-5 Aero with a stick. Would probablky be better for the climate in chi town with the FWD.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2003-03-9-5...1QQcmdZViewItem (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2003-03-9-5-AERO-ONLY-40K-FACT-WARRANTY-5SPEED-BLK-BLK_W0QQitemZ4573872790QQcategoryZ31867QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)
That's a 2003 for $18k. It's not local for you, it's in Ohio, but it is an example. No salvage title either.
Saab 9-2X!!!
Or what about a Volvo S40 T5 AWD? You could get one new, they can be had for under 30k well equipped very easily. You wouldn't feel so bad about driving this $35,000 car, you'd be driving one around the price of a high end Accord instead, just better. :)
QuoteAs wierd as this may sound, I think I'm wanting an E90 again...
I would advise you to go with the E90, and put your 'guilt' behind you. If your parents wont go broke from spending 31K and they are willing to spend that much for you, then I can see you being extremely thankful and appreciative, but I dont see why you should feel guilty. Its not as if you are forcing them to spend it on you.
An E90 is simply everything you want. Period. Dont screw around with salvage cars, IMO, they are cars that have been demolished and rebuilt, and you are relying on some unknown bodyshop to hold your car together.
2001 BMW 530i 81,000 miles
$20,000
(http://images.autotrader.com/images/2005/7/27/186/587/1652742464.186587864.IM1.04.565x421_A.562x421.jpg)
(http://images.autotrader.com/images/2005/7/27/186/587/1652742463.186587864.IM1.03.565x421_A.562x421.jpg)
2001 530i, Sport Package, 5-speed. Orient Blue Metallic w/ tan leather interior. Recent Level I and II inspections. Responsibly driven by mature military aviator. Non-smoker car and you can tell! Smells new, drives new, looks new. Engine, exterior, and interior have been meticulously maintained. Feel free to eat off the engine cover! Zymol and Lexol-only treatment products used as required. Does, however, bare some road scars you would expect from a 5 year old vehicle. Standard in-dash single-CD player, heated power seats for both driver and passenger, and VA legal tint on all windows. A very quiet ride inside that will bring a smile to your face. Full-size spare with matching Sport wheel. Absoultely no problems at all. Continental tires still have plenty of wear left. Dynamic Stability Control, "Angel Eye" headlights, fog lamps, daytime running lights, security system and BMW's proven safety record provide a very safe vehicle that's surprising inexpensive to insure. Gas mileage? Not a problem. A recent 150 mile trip yielded 31 mpg! This car is a true pleasure to drive and you will not be dissapointed. She will be missed. I just want a sporty two seater! Have some questions? Feel free to e-mail them. Want a picture of something? Let me know. I'll send it off as soon as I can.
Driver Air Bag; Anti-Lock Brakes; Air Conditioning; Alloy Wheels; AM/FM Radio; Cruise Control; Compact Disc Player; Passenger Air Bag; Rear Window Defroster; Power Seats; Leather Seats; Power Door Locks; Power Mirrors; Power Windows; Power Steering; Side Air Bag; Sunroof/Moonroof; Tinted Glass; Tilt Wheel;
The above car is in Norfolk Virginia, so its probably too far for you.
Make a sacrifice, get the E90 Wagon where you will love the way it drives, but hate the way it's nerdy.
QuoteQuoteAs wierd as this may sound, I think I'm wanting an E90 again...
Dude, ask your dad what you think is best.
My dad really doesn't care...
But a $20K car is going to be a LOT more MINE over a $30K car which I'm going to have to share a lot and have to drive the X3 around.
I want a 530i...
QuoteThe salvage title is a concern, but you are on a budget.
I know you don't want FWD, but maybe you should try it. You're not gonna be pushing it so hard that it woud really matter.
You can get a 9-5 Aero with a stick. Would probablky be better for the climate in chi town with the FWD.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2003-03-9-5...1QQcmdZViewItem (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2003-03-9-5-AERO-ONLY-40K-FACT-WARRANTY-5SPEED-BLK-BLK_W0QQitemZ4573872790QQcategoryZ31867QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)
That's a 2003 for $18k. It's not local for you, it's in Ohio, but it is an example. No salvage title either.
I'll look into that, but I really think I want a Bimmer over anything else.
QuoteSaab 9-2X!!!
If I want a Subaru, I'll buy a Subaru, not a Subaru with a Saab bodykit.
QuoteOr what about a Volvo S40 T5 AWD? You could get one new, they can be had for under 30k well equipped very easily. You wouldn't feel so bad about driving this $35,000 car, you'd be driving one around the price of a high end Accord instead, just better. :)
I've never really liked the S40, even the new one.
QuoteThe above car is in Norfolk Virginia, so its probably too far for you.
81,000 miles.
That's a LOT.
The 5-Series got a slight facelift in '02, right?
QuoteQuoteSaab 9-2X!!!
If I want a Subaru, I'll buy a Subaru, not a Subaru with a Saab bodykit.
If it's mechanically identical but cheaper, why not?
QuoteQuoteQuoteSaab 9-2X!!!
If I want a Subaru, I'll buy a Subaru, not a Subaru with a Saab bodykit.
If it's mechanically identical but cheaper, why not?
I'm not a fan of wagons anyways...
It's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
QuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
QuoteQuoteAs wierd as this may sound, I think I'm wanting an E90 again...
I would advise you to go with the E90, and put your 'guilt' behind you. If your parents wont go broke from spending 31K and they are willing to spend that much for you, then I can see you being extremely thankful and appreciative, but I dont see why you should feel guilty. Its not as if you are forcing them to spend it on you.
An E90 is simply everything you want. Period. Dont screw around with salvage cars, IMO, they are cars that have been demolished and rebuilt, and you are relying on some unknown bodyshop to hold your car together.
I agree.
Buy an E90, dammit, and have fun with it. :praise:
QuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
QuoteQuoteQuoteSaab 9-2X!!!
If I want a Subaru, I'll buy a Subaru, not a Subaru with a Saab bodykit.
If it's mechanically identical but cheaper, why not?
It's more than just a body kit, anyway. It's got an upgraded interior, and a different suspension setup.
QuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
Its not luxury Faris is worried about. I have the same feeling he has, I simply dont want to be driving around in an Evo. It screams boy racer, and I would like to be seen in a car with more finesse.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
Its not luxury Faris is worried about. I have the same feeling he has, I simply dont want to be driving around in an Evo. It screams boy racer, and I would like to be seen in a car with more finesse.
That's why i suggested 9-2X, so it doesn't look too boy-racer-ish.
I think you should go check out the A4 2.0 again. It is the best for the money right now IMO. I know i would take it over the BMW any day.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
Its not luxury Faris is worried about. I have the same feeling he has, I simply dont want to be driving around in an Evo. It screams boy racer, and I would like to be seen in a car with more finesse.
That's why i suggested 9-2X, so it doesn't look too boy-racer-ish.
I agree, a 9-2x does look very nice, although I am not into wagons so much. :)
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
Its not luxury Faris is worried about. I have the same feeling he has, I simply dont want to be driving around in an Evo. It screams boy racer, and I would like to be seen in a car with more finesse.
That's precisely the idea that I'm grappling with at the moment as well, however I'm less concerned with what the lay people will think of me (a few moments of talking to me will dissuade them from any prior beliefs that I am simply a punk kid, either that or the fact that I listen to Coldplay ;)), but I'm more worried about those who carry guns, radar and otherwise.
QuoteI think you should go check out the A4 2.0 again. It is the best for the money right now IMO. I know i would take it over the BMW any day.
I believe he ruled that out already. Now its either a BMW E90, or E39 5er.
QuoteI think you should go check out the A4 2.0 again. It is the best for the money right now IMO. I know i would take it over the BMW any day.
No thrust.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
Its not luxury Faris is worried about. I have the same feeling he has, I simply dont want to be driving around in an Evo. It screams boy racer, and I would like to be seen in a car with more finesse.
That's precisely the idea that I'm grappling with at the moment as well, however I'm less concerned with what the lay people will think of me (a few moments of talking to me will dissuade them from any prior beliefs that I am simply a punk kid, either that or the fact that I listen to Coldplay ;)), but I'm more worried about those who carry guns, radar and otherwise.
Thats another thing, police or law enforcement may think you are a ricer/punk and will clamp down a lot harder than if you were driving, say, a BMW 3 series.
Would a 9-2x have a lower insurance rate than a WRX?
QuoteWould a 9-2x have a lower insurance rate than a WRX?
From what I hear they do have lower insurance rates.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
Its not luxury Faris is worried about. I have the same feeling he has, I simply dont want to be driving around in an Evo. It screams boy racer, and I would like to be seen in a car with more finesse.
That's precisely the idea that I'm grappling with at the moment as well, however I'm less concerned with what the lay people will think of me (a few moments of talking to me will dissuade them from any prior beliefs that I am simply a punk kid, either that or the fact that I listen to Coldplay ;)), but I'm more worried about those who carry guns, radar and otherwise.
Thats another thing, police or law enforcement may think you are a ricer/punk and will clamp down a lot harder than if you were driving, say, a BMW 3 series.
Precisely my concern.
QuoteQuoteWould a 9-2x have a lower insurance rate than a WRX?
From what I hear they do have lower insurance rates.
then a 9-2x wouldn't be a bad bet...
QuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
No it doesn't, you just think it does. I can't count the times I have heard you say that you NEED a sunroof and hate cloth seats. Both sunroofs and leather seats are luxuries (ones that I really want in my first car :) ), you have just become so used to them that you don't consider them as such.
Speaking of which, the 2006 WRX will have a Limited model that includes both a sunroof and leather.
QuoteQuoteQuoteWould a 9-2x have a lower insurance rate than a WRX?
From what I hear they do have lower insurance rates.
then a 9-2x wouldn't be a bad bet...
He doesn't care for 5 door hatchbacks though.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteWould a 9-2x have a lower insurance rate than a WRX?
From what I hear they do have lower insurance rates.
then a 9-2x wouldn't be a bad bet...
He doesn't care for 5 door hatchbacks though.
Yeah.... :(
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
Its not luxury Faris is worried about. I have the same feeling he has, I simply dont want to be driving around in an Evo. It screams boy racer, and I would like to be seen in a car with more finesse.
That's precisely the idea that I'm grappling with at the moment as well, however I'm less concerned with what the lay people will think of me (a few moments of talking to me will dissuade them from any prior beliefs that I am simply a punk kid, either that or the fact that I listen to Coldplay ;)), but I'm more worried about those who carry guns, radar and otherwise.
Thats another thing, police or law enforcement may think you are a ricer/punk and will clamp down a lot harder than if you were driving, say, a BMW 3 series.
Or it could go the other way and think of you as a bratty kid :P
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
No it doesn't, you just think it does. I can't count the times I have heard you say that you NEED a sunroof and hate cloth seats. Both sunroofs and leather seats are luxuries (ones that I really want in my first car :) ), you have just become so used to them that you don't consider them as such.
Speaking of which, the 2006 WRX will have a Limited model that includes both a sunroof and leather.
I hate sunroofs, and i hate leather with a passion.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
Its not luxury Faris is worried about. I have the same feeling he has, I simply dont want to be driving around in an Evo. It screams boy racer, and I would like to be seen in a car with more finesse.
That's precisely the idea that I'm grappling with at the moment as well, however I'm less concerned with what the lay people will think of me (a few moments of talking to me will dissuade them from any prior beliefs that I am simply a punk kid, either that or the fact that I listen to Coldplay ;)), but I'm more worried about those who carry guns, radar and otherwise.
Thats another thing, police or law enforcement may think you are a ricer/punk and will clamp down a lot harder than if you were driving, say, a BMW 3 series.
Or it could go the other way and think of you as a bratty kid :P
Police arent one to make assumptions about someones financial background. If he is driving a regular sedan, they arent going to think hes some punk or idiot out to cause trouble.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
No it doesn't, you just think it does. I can't count the times I have heard you say that you NEED a sunroof and hate cloth seats. Both sunroofs and leather seats are luxuries (ones that I really want in my first car :) ), you have just become so used to them that you don't consider them as such.
Speaking of which, the 2006 WRX will have a Limited model that includes both a sunroof and leather.
I hate sunroofs, and i hate leather with a passion.
I would prefer neither too.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
No it doesn't, you just think it does. I can't count the times I have heard you say that you NEED a sunroof and hate cloth seats. Both sunroofs and leather seats are luxuries (ones that I really want in my first car :) ), you have just become so used to them that you don't consider them as such.
Speaking of which, the 2006 WRX will have a Limited model that includes both a sunroof and leather.
I hate sunroofs, and i hate leather with a passion.
I would prefer neither too.
Yeah, the sunroof is a bit noisy, and the leather gets super cold on cold winter nights and all boiling on hot summer days...
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
No it doesn't, you just think it does. I can't count the times I have heard you say that you NEED a sunroof and hate cloth seats. Both sunroofs and leather seats are luxuries (ones that I really want in my first car :) ), you have just become so used to them that you don't consider them as such.
Speaking of which, the 2006 WRX will have a Limited model that includes both a sunroof and leather.
Luxury in that sense, but I don't need super high quality materials and Audi-fit-and-finish. Aircon is a luxury, but I wouldn't buy a car without it. We're beginning to mince words.
Yes, the WRX Limited sounds good, if it weren't too ugly now. Maybe I'll get used to it. Maybe I'll see it in person and love it. Maybe I'll just get the 330i or Evo.
Ideally I want a car with a Targa top. Leather is cool.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteIt's only cheaper under the Employee Discount, under which inventories are very low.
Inventories are non existant now. Saab dealers in my area have 0 inentory of 2005's, which is what the discount applies to. To that I say woo hoo!
I couldn't see Farizzle in a 9-2x or a WRX though. It's not upscale enough for him.
It's a shame that at this age the discernment of vehicles come down to luxury. Even in my list, a self professed pampered and spoiled individual, luxury comes last in priorities.
Its not luxury Faris is worried about. I have the same feeling he has, I simply dont want to be driving around in an Evo. It screams boy racer, and I would like to be seen in a car with more finesse.
That's precisely the idea that I'm grappling with at the moment as well, however I'm less concerned with what the lay people will think of me (a few moments of talking to me will dissuade them from any prior beliefs that I am simply a punk kid, either that or the fact that I listen to Coldplay ;)), but I'm more worried about those who carry guns, radar and otherwise.
Thats another thing, police or law enforcement may think you are a ricer/punk and will clamp down a lot harder than if you were driving, say, a BMW 3 series.
Or it could go the other way and think of you as a bratty kid :P
Police arent one to make assumptions about someones financial background. If he is driving a regular sedan, they arent going to think hes some punk or idiot out to cause trouble.
Yeah, it's not as if they have binoculars. With all the reflection car windows get, if it's closed they can't even see me. And I look older from afar.
I know this doesnt meet all your dads requirements but raza just reminded me of a great idea. How about a G35 coupe?
QuoteI know this doesnt meet all your dads requirements but raza just reminded me of a great idea. How about a G35 coupe?
He wants something more practical.
I believe he doesn't like the G35, otherwise the 298bhp sedan would be quite a choice.
QuoteI believe he doesn't like the G35, otherwise the 298bhp sedan would be quite a choice.
Actually, he said he was considering the sedan, but that he likely couldn't get his dad to agree to it because of that HP rating.
How is the g35 coupe not practical? Im 6"1 and i fit in the back.....
QuoteQuoteI believe he doesn't like the G35, otherwise the 298bhp sedan would be quite a choice.
Actually, he said he was considering the sedan, but that he likely couldn't get his dad to agree to it because of that HP rating.
He should tell him that Japanese horses are smaller, or make up some new SAE net bullshit that it's really only 210.
B)
Hell, I'm considering the sedan, still.
QuoteQuoteQuoteI believe he doesn't like the G35, otherwise the 298bhp sedan would be quite a choice.
Actually, he said he was considering the sedan, but that he likely couldn't get his dad to agree to it because of that HP rating.
He should tell him that Japanese horses are smaller, or make up some new SAE net bullshit that it's really only 210.
B)
Hell, I'm considering the sedan, still.
:D
QuoteQuoteQuoteI believe he doesn't like the G35, otherwise the 298bhp sedan would be quite a choice.
Actually, he said he was considering the sedan, but that he likely couldn't get his dad to agree to it because of that HP rating.
He should tell him that Japanese horses are smaller, or make up some new SAE net bullshit that it's really only 210.
B)
Hell, I'm considering the sedan, still.
:lol:
QuoteQuoteQuoteI believe he doesn't like the G35, otherwise the 298bhp sedan would be quite a choice.
Actually, he said he was considering the sedan, but that he likely couldn't get his dad to agree to it because of that HP rating.
He should tell him that Japanese horses are smaller, or make up some new SAE net bullshit that it's really only 210.
My dad'll take it out, floor it, and never let me spend a cent of his cash ever again.
I'm going to start calling around BMW dealerships in the area this week, seeing if they have any manual E90s.
It's whichever I find first, either an E90 that fits my requirements or a 530i that fits my requirements.
Of course, I'll probably change my mind soon enough. :lol:
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI believe he doesn't like the G35, otherwise the 298bhp sedan would be quite a choice.
Actually, he said he was considering the sedan, but that he likely couldn't get his dad to agree to it because of that HP rating.
He should tell him that Japanese horses are smaller, or make up some new SAE net bullshit that it's really only 210.
My dad'll take it out, floor it, and never let me spend a cent of his cash ever again.
Rig the car with a more restrictive intake and exhaust, and try to pull out the spark plugs for two of the cylinders. He'll floor it, and get to 60 in two days. :devil:
G35s feel alot faster than they really are. Tell him that (because it is true).
QuoteG35s feel alot faster than they really are. Tell him that (because it is true).
Well, honestly though... That interior is still just too ugly for me to live with.
What about an Acura CL? It is no 330ci, but it still probably handles better than your car and would be better in downtown driving than your A4 is.
I was thinking... it's not a very wise decision to buy a car that's 5 years old ('01 530i) and with an old bodystyle and 40K+ miles for ~$21K when I'm looking at a brand-new 3-Series with a brand-new bodystyle for as low as $30-31K.
Another thing I'm noticing is that in both auctions and retail sale '01 325i is worth only around $2-3K less than an '01 530i of similar mileage.
If I buy an '01 530i today for $20K and decide to sell it 6 years down the road after putting 60,000 miles on it, it's likely not going to be worth more than $9K if I'm lucky (Think about it... How much is a '95 5-Series with 100K+ miles worth?). So I'd lose around half the car's cost or MORE, around $11-12K. If I buy a brand-new 325i today and put 60,000 miles on it, it's reasonable to assume that it'll be worth around $15-16K or more if I sell it 6 years down the road. Also consider the fact that it will be under warranty for at least the next 4 years. And when warranty's up (2007-2008 for a certified 5er, 2010 for a 325), I won't be driving a car that's 6 years old (Certified 5er), I'll be driving a car that's only 4 years old. That's important, because that means I'll have a warranty for at least until I'm done with college.
What I'm basically saying is that it's going to cost me/my dad (:lol:) the same money (or only a bit more for a brand-new 3) when you factor in everything in the long run to own a 2001 530i or a 2006 325i. I think the choice is rather simple, then. BTW you can get a car certified and extend the warranty 2 years for cheap cash once the original warranty is over as long as the car is in good mechanical condition, correct?
Buying a newer used 325i is out of the question, because even through the auction, you're paying $24-25K for a 2003 or 2004. A 5-Series of the same age is going to cost similar money to a new 3.
Which all actually begs the question: Why would anyone buy a used BMW? They're too damn expensive unless you get an older one, in which case you're rolling the dice with german age and reliability, and losing as much on depriciation as you would on a much newer car.
QuoteWhat about an Acura CL? It is no 330ci, but it still probably handles better than your car and would be better in downtown driving than your A4 is.
Handles better than the A4? Possibly. C&D said "It has the best FWD system of any car ever built".
I really should think about one, but then again, insurance on coupes seems to be a B****.
It wouldn't be as bad as the 325ci.
If you want the E90, don't skimp out, and enjoy it. YOur parents think that you deserve it, so take advantage of it.
Here is a nice CL for a great price:
http://autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=1...rdist=32#vdptop (http://autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=188737234&dealer_id=1361145&car_year=2003&search_type=both&make=ACURA&transmission=Manual&model=3.2CL&distance=200&address=60411&make2=&advanced=y&certified=&max_mileage=&bkms=1126499125875&max_price=&min_price=&end_year=2006&color=&start_year=1981&drive=&isp=y&engine=&doors=&fuel=&lang=en&cardist=32#vdptop)
This one is certified and has low mileage:
http://autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=1...rdist=57#vdptop (http://autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=187266645&dealer_id=1002147&car_year=2003&search_type=both&make=ACURA&transmission=Manual&model=3.2CL&distance=200&address=60411&make2=&advanced=y&certified=&max_mileage=&bkms=1126499125875&max_price=&min_price=&end_year=2006&color=&start_year=1981&drive=&isp=y&engine=&doors=&fuel=&lang=en&cardist=57#vdptop)
Forgive me for being blind, but I reallly just want a Bimmer.
Does anyone see any holes in my long-tem scenario that has found the prospect of buying used completely senseless?
I agree that buying a used BMW is senseless, but I am not quite so sure that the same applies to a car of a different make.
A 3.2Cl-S will likely be worth $13k in 4 years, so even with the most expensive 6-speed in your area you will lose only $10k to depreciation compared to $15-16k for the 325i. And if you go with a cheaper, uncertified car (not a big deal since it is an Acura) you will only lose $7000 or so.
QuoteIf I buy an '01 530i today for $20K and decide to sell it 6 years down the road after putting 60,000 miles on it, it's likely not going to be worth more than $9K if I'm lucky (Think about it... How much is a '95 5-Series with 100K+ miles worth?). So I'd lose around half the car's cost or MORE, around $11-12K. If I buy a brand-new 325i today and put 60,000 miles on it, it's reasonable to assume that it'll be worth around $15-16K or more if I sell it 6 years down the road.
You lose 50% or more of the car's initial cost in your second scenario as well. ;)
QuoteForgive me for being blind, but I reallly just want a Bimmer.
Does anyone see any holes in my long-tem scenario that has found the prospect of buying used completely senseless?
I sympathize with you there as well, there is just a feeling in me that begs for a Bimmer. I completely understand the feeling. Its not that other cars arent compelling, its just a special feeling that begs for a Bimmer.
Once again, I think your best bet is to go with the new 325i. It will be a newer car, and and there will be less problems that might occur with it. I think you should go to the dealer pronto and pick up the first manual 325i that you see that you like.
I'm seeing tons and tons of new 3ers on the road, so I gather they are selling very well.
What about the Mercedes-Benz C230? The new 2.5 is in it, you can get the six speed.
QuoteQuoteG35s feel alot faster than they really are. Tell him that (because it is true).
Well, honestly though... That interior is still just too ugly for me to live with.
Refer to my previous post.... :rolleyes:
QuoteQuoteWhat about an Acura CL? It is no 330ci, but it still probably handles better than your car and would be better in downtown driving than your A4 is.
Handles better than the A4? Possibly. C&D said "It has the best FWD system of any car ever built".
I really should think about one, but then again, insurance on coupes seems to be a B****.
FWD system? That sounds like bullshit to me. How is it a system?
QuoteI agree that buying a used BMW is senseless, but I am not quite so sure that the same applies to a car of a different make.
Only the 3 series, since the car is in such high demand. You stand to save a bundle on 7ers, 5ers, and the like.
QuoteQuoteQuoteWhat about an Acura CL? It is no 330ci, but it still probably handles better than your car and would be better in downtown driving than your A4 is.
Handles better than the A4? Possibly. C&D said "It has the best FWD system of any car ever built".
I really should think about one, but then again, insurance on coupes seems to be a B****.
FWD system? That sounds like bullshit to me. How is it a system?
I suppose because it has a LSD.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteWhat about an Acura CL? It is no 330ci, but it still probably handles better than your car and would be better in downtown driving than your A4 is.
Handles better than the A4? Possibly. C&D said "It has the best FWD system of any car ever built".
I really should think about one, but then again, insurance on coupes seems to be a B****.
FWD system? That sounds like bullshit to me. How is it a system?
I suppose because it has a LSD.
It's not a system, it's a differential. Bloody fools. This is why I don't read C&D anymore.
QuoteI agree that buying a used BMW is senseless, but I am not quite so sure that the same applies to a car of a different make.
True, but then again the BMW thing seems to apply only to 1-5 year-old 3ers.
QuoteQuoteIf I buy an '01 530i today for $20K and decide to sell it 6 years down the road after putting 60,000 miles on it, it's likely not going to be worth more than $9K if I'm lucky (Think about it... How much is a '95 5-Series with 100K+ miles worth?). So I'd lose around half the car's cost or MORE, around $11-12K. If I buy a brand-new 325i today and put 60,000 miles on it, it's reasonable to assume that it'll be worth around $15-16K or more if I sell it 6 years down the road.
You lose 50% or more of the car's initial cost in your second scenario as well. ;)
True, but when you narrow it down over the long run and factor in the possibility of expensive out-of-warranty repairs on an older 5-Series, the difference between a brand-new 3 and a 5-year-old 530i seems to be no more than $2-3K. I'll also be able to keep the 3 for a lot longer.
Whaddya think, ifcar?
I mean, you seem to suggest the most practical solutions...
QuoteQuoteForgive me for being blind, but I reallly just want a Bimmer.
Does anyone see any holes in my long-tem scenario that has found the prospect of buying used completely senseless?
I sympathize with you there as well, there is just a feeling in me that begs for a Bimmer. I completely understand the feeling. Its not that other cars arent compelling, its just a special feeling that begs for a Bimmer.
Once again, I think your best bet is to go with the new 325i. It will be a newer car, and and there will be less problems that might occur with it. I think you should go to the dealer pronto and pick up the first manual 325i that you see that you like.
I'm seeing tons and tons of new 3ers on the road, so I gather they are selling very well.
Yeah, I've loved 'em since I was a kid. Hell, my mom drove a 7-Series for a good part of my life.
They actually don't seem to be selling very well in the Chicagoland area... I'm seeing VERY few of them.
QuoteWhat about the Mercedes-Benz C230? The new 2.5 is in it, you can get the six speed.
I might check it out. I heard the new C handles very well and the new MB 6-Speeds are a delight to drive.
Then again, the C-Klasse is getting replaced soon...
QuoteQuoteQuoteWhat about an Acura CL? It is no 330ci, but it still probably handles better than your car and would be better in downtown driving than your A4 is.
Handles better than the A4? Possibly. C&D said "It has the best FWD system of any car ever built".
I really should think about one, but then again, insurance on coupes seems to be a B****.
FWD system? That sounds like bullshit to me. How is it a system?
I could be mistaken, they might have said "setup" rather than "system".
You get the point.
QuoteQuoteI agree that buying a used BMW is senseless, but I am not quite so sure that the same applies to a car of a different make.
Only the 3 series, since the car is in such high demand. You stand to save a bundle on 7ers, 5ers, and the like.
Yeah, that's true.
I could very well see it reasonable to buy a 3-4 year old 7 or 5 as long as you're not planning on keeping it for too long and you have the financial flexibility to change cars when you want to or to do repairs on it.
Laurel BMW has a Black/Black 6MT with Heated Seats and Satellite Prep.
I could get a good deal on any car at that dealership.
I would go buy it today, but they have the exact same one with Sparkling Graphite coming in sometime soon (They already have one like that but it has sport package :(). It's worth waiting for the Graphite IMO...
Gonna go today get something taken care of for the A4. I'm likely either going to let my uncles sell it off for me or put it on Autotrader. I can't right now because there's a problem with the Title (Long story, I'll post it somewhere tonight).
Laurel BMW has a Black/Black 6MT with Heated Seats and Satellite Prep.
I could get a good deal on any car at that dealership.
I would go buy it today, but they have the exact same one with Sparkling Graphite coming in sometime soon (They already have one like that but it has sport package :(). It's worth waiting for the Graphite IMO...
Gonna go today get something taken care of for the A4. I'm likely either going to let my uncles sell it off for me or put it on Autotrader. I can't right now because there's a problem with the Title (Long story, I'll post it somewhere tonight).
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteWhat about an Acura CL? It is no 330ci, but it still probably handles better than your car and would be better in downtown driving than your A4 is.
Handles better than the A4? Possibly. C&D said "It has the best FWD system of any car ever built".
I really should think about one, but then again, insurance on coupes seems to be a B****.
FWD system? That sounds like bullshit to me. How is it a system?
I suppose because it has a LSD.
It's not a system, it's a differential. Bloody fools. This is why I don't read C&D anymore.
sys?tem Audio pronunciation of "system" ( P ) Pronunciation Key (sstm)
n.
1. A group of interacting, interrelated, or interdependent elements forming a complex whole.
http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=system (http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=system)
QuoteLaurel BMW has a Black/Black 6MT with Heated Seats and Satellite Prep.
I could get a good deal on any car at that dealership.
I would go buy it today, but they have the exact same one with Sparkling Graphite coming in sometime soon (They already have one like that but it has sport package :(). It's worth waiting for the Graphite IMO...
Gonna go today get something taken care of for the A4. I'm likely either going to let my uncles sell it off for me or put it on Autotrader. I can't right now because there's a problem with the Title (Long story, I'll post it somewhere tonight).
I happen to think Black is very nice, but if what you want is sparkling graphite, then by all means, wait for it. No point in not buying the color you think is best. :)
QuoteQuoteLaurel BMW has a Black/Black 6MT with Heated Seats and Satellite Prep.
I could get a good deal on any car at that dealership.
I would go buy it today, but they have the exact same one with Sparkling Graphite coming in sometime soon (They already have one like that but it has sport package :(). It's worth waiting for the Graphite IMO...
Gonna go today get something taken care of for the A4. I'm likely either going to let my uncles sell it off for me or put it on Autotrader. I can't right now because there's a problem with the Title (Long story, I'll post it somewhere tonight).
I happen to think Black is very nice, but if what you want is sparkling graphite, then by all means, wait for it. No point in not buying the color you think is best. :)
Unless you're my dad. :rolleyes:
QuoteLaurel BMW has a Black/Black 6MT with Heated Seats and Satellite Prep.
I could get a good deal on any car at that dealership.
I would go buy it today, but they have the exact same one with Sparkling Graphite coming in sometime soon (They already have one like that but it has sport package :(). It's worth waiting for the Graphite IMO...
Gonna go today get something taken care of for the A4. I'm likely either going to let my uncles sell it off for me or put it on Autotrader. I can't right now because there's a problem with the Title (Long story, I'll post it somewhere tonight).
I don't understand why you wouldn't want the sport package. Its not a harsh ride by any means of the imagination, you get better seats, better suspension, better wheels, and a better steering wheel. Its 1600 but that is hardly unreasonable, and frankly you would make most of that up when you re-sell it.
Just get this:
(http://cfserver.mjmi.com/desimone/images/preowned/1670_1.jpg)
(http://cfserver.mjmi.com/desimone/images/preowned/1670_5.jpg)
Or if you don't like white get this one instead:
(http://cfserver.mjmi.com/desimone/images/preowned/1710_1.jpg)
Oh baby! the white one is SEXAY!
NO you idiot, theyre BOTH sexy!
PS. If you are this worried about price and practicality, you should probably consider getting something other than a German car.
At under 30k anything from Audi and BMW is just an "image" car. A TSX, Volvo S40 T5, or even an Accord Coupe would be better choices. You'd get alot more equipment, just as sporty of a ride, and you'd save a pretty penny to boot.
When you are buying the German makes most of the time you are going to pay alot more money to get marginal improvements. If you have to ask yourself if those small improvements are worth it then they probably aren't.
PPS. I don't mean getting a German car requires an uplevel engine BTW. I would be more than happy with a 525i sport 6MT. But getting a BMW with no options is just silly IMHO.
That's the place where I bought my Z3 (in Jersey). Great staff, no hassle. I got to test drive a brand spankin new 530i when they first came out when i had my Z3 in for service. The guy knew i wasn't going to buy (told him up front) but he let me take it for a spin anyway. :praise:
QuoteQuoteLaurel BMW has a Black/Black 6MT with Heated Seats and Satellite Prep.
I could get a good deal on any car at that dealership.
I would go buy it today, but they have the exact same one with Sparkling Graphite coming in sometime soon (They already have one like that but it has sport package :(). It's worth waiting for the Graphite IMO...
Gonna go today get something taken care of for the A4. I'm likely either going to let my uncles sell it off for me or put it on Autotrader. I can't right now because there's a problem with the Title (Long story, I'll post it somewhere tonight).
I don't understand why you wouldn't want the sport package. Its not a harsh ride by any means of the imagination, you get better seats, better suspension, better wheels, and a better steering wheel. Its 1600 but that is hardly unreasonable, and frankly you would make most of that up when you re-sell it.
Performance tires in the Chicago Winter...
That's playing with fire.
QuoteBut getting a BMW with no options is just silly IMHO.
If I could option it the way I want to, I'd get the premium package and nothing else. It comes pretty well equipped in base form.
QuoteQuoteQuoteLaurel BMW has a Black/Black 6MT with Heated Seats and Satellite Prep.
I could get a good deal on any car at that dealership.
I would go buy it today, but they have the exact same one with Sparkling Graphite coming in sometime soon (They already have one like that but it has sport package :(). It's worth waiting for the Graphite IMO...
Gonna go today get something taken care of for the A4. I'm likely either going to let my uncles sell it off for me or put it on Autotrader. I can't right now because there's a problem with the Title (Long story, I'll post it somewhere tonight).
I don't understand why you wouldn't want the sport package. Its not a harsh ride by any means of the imagination, you get better seats, better suspension, better wheels, and a better steering wheel. Its 1600 but that is hardly unreasonable, and frankly you would make most of that up when you re-sell it.
Performance tires in the Chicago Winter...
That's playing with fire.
You're supposed to get a second set of tires/wheels for winter. I know people in NJ that do this with RWD cars.
That being said, I am pretty sure the "performance tires" on the sport package are actually performance all-seasons.
Actually it just occurred to me...you are going to spend 30k+ on a sport sedan and then intentionally give it non-performance tires?
You need to consider that you aren't getting the right car for your situation.
QuoteActually it just occurred to me...you are going to spend 30k+ on a sport sedan and then intentionally give it non-performance tires?
You need to consider that you aren't getting the right car for your situation.
well said. :praise:
QuoteActually it just occurred to me...you are going to spend 30k+ on a sport sedan and then intentionally give it non-performance tires?
You need to consider that you aren't getting the right car for your situation.
I'm with SJZ3 here. If you are so scared of snow, get the Audi and stop complaining.
QuoteQuoteActually it just occurred to me...you are going to spend 30k+ on a sport sedan and then intentionally give it non-performance tires?
You need to consider that you aren't getting the right car for your situation.
I'm with SJZ3 here. If you are so scared of snow, get the Audi and stop complaining.
or get a new corolla.
QuotePerformance tires not recommended for driving in snow and ice.
I know people who have nearly been killed in the snow mainly because they didn't have winter tires.
If it was my money, I'd probably get the Sport Package and get a set of winter tires. My dad doesn't like that solution.
QuoteQuotePerformance tires not recommended for driving in snow and ice.
I know people who have nearly been killed in the snow mainly because they didn't have winter tires.
If it was my money, I'd probably get the Sport Package and get a set of winter tires. My dad doesn't like that solution.
why not?
Perhaps because it would cost him $2000-2500 more :rolleyes:
QuotePerhaps because it would cost him $2000-2500 more :rolleyes:
$1700,but yeah, that's the main reason.
QuoteQuotePerhaps because it would cost him $2000-2500 more :rolleyes:
$1700,but yeah, that's the main reason.
When you're buying such an expensive car, $1.7k isn't much.
QuoteQuotePerhaps because it would cost him $2000-2500 more :rolleyes:
$1700,but yeah, that's the main reason.
That's just the cost of the sport package, you would also have to get snow tires and possibly new wheels. And, Rag, $2000 is a lot of money no matter how expensive the car is. I tell you, kids these days have the most skewed ideas about money... ;)
QuoteQuoteQuotePerhaps because it would cost him $2000-2500 more :rolleyes:
$1700,but yeah, that's the main reason.
That's just the cost of the sport package, you would also have to get snow tires and possibly new wheels. And, Rag, $2000 is a lot of money no matter how expensive the car is. I tell you, kids these days have the most skewed ideas about money... ;)
I"m not skewed.
Anyone who buys cheap used cars recognizes the signifcance of $1,700. :D
Anyone who has their parents buy them a car, particularly a very nice one, will put a much lower value on that amount.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuotePerhaps because it would cost him $2000-2500 more :rolleyes:
$1700,but yeah, that's the main reason.
That's just the cost of the sport package, you would also have to get snow tires and possibly new wheels. And, Rag, $2000 is a lot of money no matter how expensive the car is. I tell you, kids these days have the most skewed ideas about money... ;)
I"m not skewed.
If you think $2000 isn't much than you most definitely are skewed.
2000 on the price of a new 30k+ sport sedan isn't that big of a deal.
Also, its not really reasonable to count snow tires as an additional expense any more than if you counted a second set of tires you are going to have to buy eventually anyway as an extra expense. You don't throw out your regular tires when you put on snow tires, you just put them away until spring. Over a long enough period of time (3-4 years) there really is no additional expense for using snow tires.
I personally have two sets of tires for my cars, one summer and one winter. Its not that big of a deal.
Anyway its 850csi's choice. If he wants a 325i sans sport package its up to him, its still a pretty fun car. I just know if it was me it wouldn't even be a consideration, I would just get the sport package.
If for some reason I couldn't get the sport package on the BMW, I would seriously consider getting the A4 2.0T w/ sport package instead. It would be cheaper anyway and it would be about as fun to drive, and be even better for the winter. Ride wouldn't be as comfy (A4 vs 325i), but its still reasonably good IMHO.
The only concern I wonder about in his case is if he can really afford this car. If 1700 can make or break you financially its not the right type of car for you. Its its simply a matter of personal guilt over spending money, its again not the right car for you (you can find much better featured cars that are still plenty fun for quite a bit less money).
His dad is buying it and can afford the $1700, I think that he just doesn't want o spend that much. And, good point about the tire, but he still might have to buy a new set of wheels.
QuoteHis dad is buying it and can afford the $1700, I think that he just doesn't want o spend that much. And, good point about the tire, but he still might have to buy a new set of wheels.
It was more expensive to get a set of snow tires to match my wheels than it was to get a second set of wheels/snow tires. Snow tires for 16 inch wheels are alot cheaper than snow tires for 17 inch wheels.
That being said, I didn't spend 50k (CAD, including taxes) to drive around half the year on 16 inch steelies. :lol: I was more than happy to spend the extra 2 hundred bucks to just get 17 inch tires for the winter.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuotePerhaps because it would cost him $2000-2500 more :rolleyes:
$1700,but yeah, that's the main reason.
That's just the cost of the sport package, you would also have to get snow tires and possibly new wheels. And, Rag, $2000 is a lot of money no matter how expensive the car is. I tell you, kids these days have the most skewed ideas about money... ;)
I"m not skewed.
If you think $2000 isn't much than you most definitely are skewed.
Do you think a buyer of a $30k sports sedan will care?
QuoteThe only concern I wonder about in his case is if he can really afford this car. If 1700 can make or break you financially its not the right type of car for you. Its its simply a matter of personal guilt over spending money, its again not the right car for you (you can find much better featured cars that are still plenty fun for quite a bit less money).
The money isn't really the issue.
I asked my dad today if he would want me to get one with sport package and gave him the details, he said "defenitely not".
(http://www.zr.ru/imgblock/148/sky.jpg)
Should be getting a new car within a few weeks... Once I get my corrected title from the Secretary of State and sell the Audi.
QuoteShould be getting a new car within a few weeks... Once I get my corrected title from the Secretary of State and sell the Audi.
Definitely the E90 3 or what?
QuoteQuoteThe only concern I wonder about in his case is if he can really afford this car. If 1700 can make or break you financially its not the right type of car for you. Its its simply a matter of personal guilt over spending money, its again not the right car for you (you can find much better featured cars that are still plenty fun for quite a bit less money).
The money isn't really the issue.
I asked my dad today if he would want me to get one with sport package and gave him the details, he said "defenitely not".
why not?
QuoteQuoteQuoteThe only concern I wonder about in his case is if he can really afford this car. If 1700 can make or break you financially its not the right type of car for you. Its its simply a matter of personal guilt over spending money, its again not the right car for you (you can find much better featured cars that are still plenty fun for quite a bit less money).
The money isn't really the issue.
I asked my dad today if he would want me to get one with sport package and gave him the details, he said "defenitely not".
why not?
Maybe he doesn't like the idea of the run-flat tires or the larger wheels and I wouldn't pay $1,700 just for larger rims and a sport suspension either. I imagine this package would lead to a measurable loss of ride comfort.
Farizzle, what's up with the new car?
Well, we went to the Audi and BMW dealerships today and decided on the 325i.
We actually test-drove a 330i because it was the only manual they had in stock. It's a frikkin monster. I didn't drive, but that thing was FAST.
We ordered a Jet Black (non-metallic) 325i 6MT. Should be in within the next few days. I won't get to drive it for a while, but whatever. Only option on it is heated seats.
We're paying $30,870.
:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:
God, you bastard.
Taking a slightly more positive spin off of Secret Chimp's comment... good for you Faris! Have fun with that and be sure to take pics! B)
Woohoo! Congrats! Too bad the Audi didn't win over, but either one is a winner. Enjoy it! Seems like you got a damn fine deal, too. Especially considering I just bought a friggin pickup truck for my company for the same dough! :rolleyes:
Count the days til it you get the "hand me down"!
Congrats! B)
QuoteGod, you bastard.
Thanks. :lol:
QuoteTaking a slightly more positive spin off of Secret Chimp's comment... good for you Faris! Have fun with that and be sure to take pics! B)
Will do.
QuoteWoohoo! Congrats! Too bad the Audi didn't win over, but either one is a winner. Enjoy it! Seems like you got a damn fine deal, too. Especially considering I just bought a friggin pickup truck for my company for the same dough! :rolleyes:
Count the days til it you get the "hand me down"!
My dad drove both the A4 and the 330i, and putting speed aside (well, the 325i is still a lot faster than the A4 2.0), he still said "The BMW is CLEARLY the superior car", and he had actually been favoring the Audi all along. (Keep in mind though, that the 330 had the sport package. It still rode very nicely even with that package and the 18" wheels it had).
He was impressed by the Audi overall, as it drives a lot nicer than mine and has a better transmission (he said the clutch was a lot better in the new one). However, he said the new one actually had MORE body roll than mine. Mine has the sport package, but it still rolls A LOT. Audi had an incredible lease program on the A4 2.0Ts, though.
Guys, does anyone have experience with non-metallic paint? I really don't know what the Jet Black looks like... Actually, I've never seen a metallic black and normal black side-by-side so I really don't know. The 330 we drove was black but I don't know if it was metallic or not...
And, here's the thing... Maybe it was because there wasn't a sales guy with us during the bimmer test drive and my dad really pushed it hard (well, he managed to make the audi's tires skid and there was a salesman with us)... whitle I felt very normal riding in the back of the Audi, the Bimmer put a really big smile on my face. That 330 was telepathic. Haven't felt that way in a car since i drove the M3.
Congrats man. Sounds like you got a killer deal too. A base 325i is only a little less IIRC.
Hmmm looking at used BMWs for sale, it seems that a large majority of black BMWs sold are the non-metallic type...
no worries, then, I guess.
QuoteCongrats man. Sounds like you got a killer deal too. A base 325i is only a little less IIRC.
Yeah, this is pretty much a base model with heated seats (pretty much all of 'em come with heated seats.)
MSRP on this one is $32,095. Invoice is $29,450. True Market Value is $31,550...
So I guess we got a good $1200 off MSRP and nearly $700 lower than the TMV. Not bad, considering they gave us that price without any real bargaining. He just told us "this is the lowest I'm able to sell it for".
We were treated very well at both the Audi and BMW dealerships, btw.
I read your first post too fast and thought you said you testdrove and bought a 330i. Still a good deal.
REgarding the stock suspension - that's why I have Eibach Pro-Kit springs installed - lower and stiffer. I'm an obvious Audi fan, but I wish they'd take some of the Buick out of the stock suspensions! Gotta buy the sport suspension or do the aftermarket thing (a cheap and effective fix, but I hear ya!)
BTW, my A6 is non-metallic black. Looks gorgeous when clean and waxed (back in '03 I think! ;) ) I love the color - looks very deep and rich. I actually prefer it to the metallic finishes.
Congrats, fool.
Congrats man! You deserve it
QuoteCongrats man! You deserve it
That's debatable... :lol:
QuoteQuoteCongrats man! You deserve it
That's debatable... :lol:
Yeah, i'd say that you deserve it more, TBR, but , that's not the point. :lol:
Of course I do.... ;) But, no teenager deserves a $30,000 car, and Faris knows that (I think).
QuoteOf course I do.... ;) But, no teenager deserves a $30,000 car, and Faris knows that (I think).
:praise: But you work for everything that you can get. I don't think he does...
Anyways, do some drifts dude.
QuoteOf course I do.... ;) But, no teenager deserves a $30,000 car, and Faris knows that (I think).
I dont really believe that...if the parents have money, and the teenager has done very well in school, and on standardized tests, there is no reason not to reward them. If the kid is an asshole, then he shouldnt even get a Honda.
I see some completely screwed up kids who do not try at all driving brand new BMW's. Faris deserves it a helluva a lot more than they do.
I'll agree with that, but I still say that no teenager deserves to have a 30k car given to them. But, let's not get into this here...
QuoteI'll agree with that, but I still say that no teenager deserves to have a 30k car given to them. But, let's not get into this here...
to be continued (for those who wish to) in Chat.
I agree with TBR.
QuoteI agree with TBR.
:o
Never mind then B)
Look at it this way. The BMW 325i is a reliable, well-built, economical, safe car. Maybe Faris plans to own it for years and drive it a long time. It's not like he will treat it like crap and get a new one every year. More of a long-term investment I would think.
I am certainly not blaming him, as long as he knows he doesn't deserve it then I am happy, my problem is with people that don't realize that.
QuoteI am certainly not blaming him, as long as he knows he doesn't deserve it then I am happy, my problem is with people that don't realize that.
Agreed. I feel bad for people like that.
QuoteLook at it this way. The BMW 325i is a reliable, well-built, economical, safe car. Maybe Faris plans to own it for years and drive it a long time. It's not like he will treat it like crap and get a new one every year. More of a long-term investment I would think.
Yeah, I'll keep this car for a while because it's really everything I want in a car and I'll be driving a current-bodystyle car for the next 6 years...
I'll get an extended warranty after the original is done, too.
QuoteI am certainly not blaming him, as long as he knows he doesn't deserve it then I am happy, my problem is with people that don't realize that.
I really dont. The people I have a problem with are those that think they are gods gift to the world. Sure no one absolutely DESERVES a 30K car, I see your point in that sense.
QuoteI am certainly not blaming him, as long as he knows he doesn't deserve it then I am happy, my problem is with people that don't realize that.
No, I don't
deserve a $30K car, which is why I was very hesitant about buying one (remember?). But since my parents are willing to buy me one and I think it's a good investment, I'll take it.
If I was in my parents' position, I
might do the same thing.
Hell, my parents are getting me a lot more than a $30K car. I'm going to be paying $30K every year for college tuition and I'm getting an apartment downtown to share with one or two of my friends.
I'm spoiled rotten like that. But I'm going to try to at least use that 'spoiling' to my advantage and produce results.
QuoteThe people I have a problem with are those that think they are gods gift to the world.
Yeah, I have a problem with those people.
I also have a problem with people who are spoiled and act like brats as a result.
I also have a problem with people who don't know what they have or are never satisfied.
QuoteQuoteI am certainly not blaming him, as long as he knows he doesn't deserve it then I am happy, my problem is with people that don't realize that.
No, I don't deserve a $30K car, which is why I was very hesitant about buying one (remember?). But since my parents are willing to buy me one and I think it's a good investment, I'll take it.
If I was in my parents' position, I might do the same thing.
Hell, my parents are getting me a lot more than a $30K car. I'm going to be paying $30K every year for college tuition and I'm getting an apartment downtown to share with one or two of my friends.
I'm spoiled rotten like that. But I'm going to try to at least use that 'spoiling' to my advantage and produce results.
QuoteI'm spoiled rotten like that. But I'm going to try to at least use that 'spoiling' to my advantage and produce results.
Thast the kind of spoiled kid I like...keep your head on straight like this :rockon:
ah 850 you are SUCH an asshole! :D
Quoteah 850 you are SUCH an asshole! :D
GO PATRIOTS
THATS the spirit!!!!
Looking forward to the Buffalo game, I go to school an hour-2 away from the bell of the beast so I am going to have a great time giving the locals shit after they get stomped. get ready for the RETURN OF BRUSHCI!
I always root for the Patriots when I'm not busy with the Bears...
Honestly, I don't think they're going to repeat this year (although it would be awesome if they did). But they're still going to be division champs and have one of the best records of any team out there.
With Bruschi, Dillon, and Seymour back, they're a much better team than the one that lost to Denver the way it did. Are people over there calling for Duane Starks's head?
And I'm concerned that the Patriots' secondary may never be what it was. Harrison's injury is unbelievably bad... He may never be his old self ever again.
Congrats.
As for body roll...my opinion when picking between the B6 A4 and E46 325i was that a "sport package" A4 handled about as well as a non-sport 325i. The 325i had a better ride with or without the sport package though.
As for the paint colors...Jet Black is nicer looking but it will be harder to keep "like new" or to keep clean. Metallic finishes are shinier and more resistant to fade. If I had a garage I would prefer jet black, but if I was going to be parking outside year-round I would prefer the metallic finish.
QuoteQuoteI am certainly not blaming him, as long as he knows he doesn't deserve it then I am happy, my problem is with people that don't realize that.
No, I don't deserve a $30K car, which is why I was very hesitant about buying one (remember?). But since my parents are willing to buy me one and I think it's a good investment, I'll take it.
If I was in my parents' position, I might do the same thing.
Hell, my parents are getting me a lot more than a $30K car. I'm going to be paying $30K every year for college tuition and I'm getting an apartment downtown to share with one or two of my friends.
I'm spoiled rotten like that. But I'm going to try to at least use that 'spoiling' to my advantage and produce results.
Exactly. Those who are spoiled and
realize they are spoiled are the ones that get much further in life. Those who are spoiled and are never satisfied are just irritating people.
Awesome, why didn't you ask for a used 330?
I'm totally spoiled. But you all knew that, and knew I knew that, but there have been newcomers since I've last been called spoiled, so I thought it apt to reiterate.
B)
QuoteI always root for the Patriots when I'm not busy with the Bears...
Honestly, I don't think they're going to repeat this year (although it would be awesome if they did). But they're still going to be division champs and have one of the best records of any team out there.
With Bruschi, Dillon, and Seymour back, they're a much better team than the one that lost to Denver the way it did. Are people over there calling for Duane Starks's head?
And I'm concerned that the Patriots' secondary may never be what it was. Harrison's injury is unbelievably bad... He may never be his old self ever again.
Yes, people are basically willing to murder Starks, and IMO justifiably so. Some try to write it off saying mangini is new to his job but that's a load of BS, he's been Crennel's understudy for years and years so this is not a new defensive scheme. I think Scott Pioli had a rare bad call trading a third round pick for Starks.
QuoteQuoteOf course I do.... ;) But, no teenager deserves a $30,000 car, and Faris knows that (I think).
I dont really believe that...if the parents have money, and the teenager has done very well in school, and on standardized tests, there is no reason not to reward them. If the kid is an asshole, then he shouldnt even get a Honda.
ARe you saying that Honda's are bad? <_< :rolleyes:
Against a BMW, most definitely.
QuoteAgainst a BMW, most definitely.
At least they're more reliable.
Come on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
QuoteCome on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
Except for the S2000. :praise:
QuoteQuoteCome on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
Except for the S2000. :praise:
The S2000 isn't even the same kind of car, dingus.
QuoteCome on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
Are you kidding me? I'd take a 130i over any Accord V6 they could throw at me.
QuoteQuoteCome on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
Are you kidding me? I'd take a 130i over any Accord V6 they could throw at me.
Me too, but the way DAve was implying it, he was saying that Honda is a piece of junk. <_<
QuoteQuoteCome on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
Are you kidding me? I'd take a 130i over any Accord V6 they could throw at me.
Or even a 120d :praise:
QuoteQuoteQuoteCome on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
Are you kidding me? I'd take a 130i over any Accord V6 they could throw at me.
Or even a 120d :praise:
That's stretching it too much for me.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteCome on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
Are you kidding me? I'd take a 130i over any Accord V6 they could throw at me.
Or even a 120d :praise:
That's stretching it too much for me.
What's wrong with diesels?
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteCome on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
Are you kidding me? I'd take a 130i over any Accord V6 they could throw at me.
Or even a 120d :praise:
That's stretching it too much for me.
What's wrong with diesels?
Acceleration.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteCome on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
Are you kidding me? I'd take a 130i over any Accord V6 they could throw at me.
Or even a 120d :praise:
That's stretching it too much for me.
Speed isn't everything. An Accord can't touch a BMW in sport even if it may be a little faster.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteCome on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
Are you kidding me? I'd take a 130i over any Accord V6 they could throw at me.
Or even a 120d :praise:
That's stretching it too much for me.
Speed isn't everything. An Accord can't touch a BMW in sport even if it may be a little faster.
True, but I don't like the 1 series all that much.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteCome on rag, a BMW (3 series on up) is most certainly better than a Honda. No need to defend it.
Are you kidding me? I'd take a 130i over any Accord V6 they could throw at me.
Or even a 120d :praise:
That's stretching it too much for me.
What's wrong with diesels?
Acceleration.
It's adequete, and pluse, you get tons of torque, and great MPG also.
I neglected to say the 1-series because it is arguably better than the Accord V6 rather than it being set it stone, so I just left it out. I agree that the 1-series is better though.
QuoteAwesome, why didn't you ask for a used 330?
Thanks.
Because an E90 325i is nearly as fast as an E46 330. And I don't need the speed anyways.
QuoteQuoteI always root for the Patriots when I'm not busy with the Bears...
Honestly, I don't think they're going to repeat this year (although it would be awesome if they did). But they're still going to be division champs and have one of the best records of any team out there.
With Bruschi, Dillon, and Seymour back, they're a much better team than the one that lost to Denver the way it did. Are people over there calling for Duane Starks's head?
And I'm concerned that the Patriots' secondary may never be what it was. Harrison's injury is unbelievably bad... He may never be his old self ever again.
Yes, people are basically willing to murder Starks, and IMO justifiably so. Some try to write it off saying mangini is new to his job but that's a load of BS, he's been Crennel's understudy for years and years so this is not a new defensive scheme. I think Scott Pioli had a rare bad call trading a third round pick for Starks.
Yep.
Well at least they won tonight. But, man... They need some work on defense. It was really their D that won them those rings. I mean, the Patriots have an awesome offensive punch, but they can't go anywhere without their defense.
QuoteQuoteQuoteI always root for the Patriots when I'm not busy with the Bears...
Honestly, I don't think they're going to repeat this year (although it would be awesome if they did). But they're still going to be division champs and have one of the best records of any team out there.
With Bruschi, Dillon, and Seymour back, they're a much better team than the one that lost to Denver the way it did. Are people over there calling for Duane Starks's head?
And I'm concerned that the Patriots' secondary may never be what it was. Harrison's injury is unbelievably bad... He may never be his old self ever again.
Yes, people are basically willing to murder Starks, and IMO justifiably so. Some try to write it off saying mangini is new to his job but that's a load of BS, he's been Crennel's understudy for years and years so this is not a new defensive scheme. I think Scott Pioli had a rare bad call trading a third round pick for Starks.
Yep.
Well at least they won tonight. But, man... They need some work on defense. It was really their D that won them those rings. I mean, the Patriots have an awesome offensive punch, but they can't go anywhere without their defense.
Tell me about it, Mcgahee was drilling up the middle all night, and the only person in the secondary actually playing well was Samuel, who had an AMAZING night.
Oh, and while we were on the subject of spoiled people...
One of the girls at my school drives a brand-new A4 V6 quattro convertible, fully loaded (Her family is EXTREMELY rich, but they're all modest). She never drops the top near the school and goes home right after school. That's a near-$50K car, and very few even know its hers.
QuoteOh, and while we were on the subject of spoiled people...
One of the girls at my school drives a brand-new A4 V6 quattro convertible, fully loaded (Her family is EXTREMELY rich, but they're all modest). She never drops the top near the school and goes home right after school. That's a near-$50K car, and very few even know its hers.
I was definitely more extroverted than that. One more than one occasion my actions led to police presence the next day.
QuoteQuoteOh, and while we were on the subject of spoiled people...
One of the girls at my school drives a brand-new A4 V6 quattro convertible, fully loaded (Her family is EXTREMELY rich, but they're all modest). She never drops the top near the school and goes home right after school. That's a near-$50K car, and very few even know its hers.
I was definitely more extroverted than that. One more than one occasion my actions led to police presence the next day.
:lol: :rolleyes: :lol:
I wouldn't buy a new 330i. I have driven both the new 325 and the new 330, and I was not impressed by the 330 considering all the hype I had heard about it. The 325 on the other hand I was more impressed by, and my own internal acceleration meter told me the 330i didn't feel that much faster than the 325. Basically, good choice man. :praise:
QuoteI wouldn't buy a new 330i. I have driven both the new 325 and the new 330, and I was not impressed by the 330 considering all the hype I had heard about it. The 325 on the other hand I was more impressed by, and my own internal acceleration meter told me the 330i didn't feel that much faster than the 325. Basically, good choice man. :praise:
Oh, I got to drive them back to back (many times in fact) and I definitely felt the difference.
I probably wouldn't spring for the the 330i either though. 215 HP is quite a bit for a car this small. Unless drag-racing is a weekend hobby its hard to imagine many circumstances where 215 HP won't be more than enough HP.
The one thing that makes me think twice about getting the 330i are those fantastic sport package wheels. I love em. Buying them after-market wouldn't cost much more than to simply upgrade to the 330i anyway (assuming you want the things that are "standard" on the 330i but are optional on the 325i...).
Since when is the E90 a small car?
QuoteSince when is the E90 a small car?
:rolleyes:
Yes we know its bigger than the E46, but its still smaller than the Cobalt, Jetta, or Mazda 3. The 3-series is a premium
compact sedan.
its really smaller than those other cars? Thats cool!
QuoteQuoteSince when is the E90 a small car?
:rolleyes:
Yes we know its bigger than the E46, but its still smaller than the Cobalt, Jetta, or Mazda 3. The 3-series is a premium compact sedan.
The interior volume is a hair away from the last generation 5 series. The car looks and feels cavernous.
QuoteQuoteQuoteSince when is the E90 a small car?
:rolleyes:
Yes we know its bigger than the E46, but its still smaller than the Cobalt, Jetta, or Mazda 3. The 3-series is a premium compact sedan.
The interior volume is a hair away from the last generation 5 series. The car looks and feels cavernous.
That just means BMW did a great job of packaging.
Like I said the 3er is smaller than alot of mainstream compact cars, and smaller than my A4 which is also a compact.
Its only marginally larger than the new Civic (1.5 inches longer) and its almost identical in size to the Toyota Corolla (its actually .1 inch shorter).
QuoteQuoteQuoteSince when is the E90 a small car?
:rolleyes:
Yes we know its bigger than the E46, but its still smaller than the Cobalt, Jetta, or Mazda 3. The 3-series is a premium compact sedan.
The interior volume is a hair away from the last generation 5 series. The car looks and feels cavernous.
You seem to like small cars though. I didn't consider the 5 series cavernous by any means. It was smaller than a Camry, interior space wise. And the Camry isn't a big car. A Crown Vic is a big car. An Avalon is a big car. They definitely make the 3 series look small by comparison. There are several more cars that are larger than the 3 than that are smaller.
To state it simply:
THIS THING IS FRIKKIN UNBELIEVABLE
We went and picked it up today. I didn't get to drive it on the way back because I had to be somewhere and because of my knee...
I just took it out for a spin...
Clutch and gearbox are unbelievably smooth. Actually, to the point where it's almost annoying to someone like me who's used to the Audi gearbox, which makes every little mistake you make VERY known.
What struck me was how dead quiet it is... Unless you floor it, in which case you're met with an inline-6 roar. Even the 325 like mine has great power at all ranges... This thing is fast.
Steering is better than nearly every car I have ever driven, second to only the M3, possibly as good as the E36. That's probably because mine doesn't have sport package.
Body roll is very contained, certainly way less than my sport-package Audi. But it's not a 645 with ARS (That thing was ridiculous... Like point-and-shoot).
One thing really struck me behind the wheel. Aside from the cockpit being superbly laid out, just HOW SOLID it feels put together.
Black/Black looks great. The Leatherette feels almost like the real thing (My dad's X3 is real black leather, So I would know).
Pictures tomorrow because it's already dark out and my camera doesn't like the dark.
I'm a spoiled bastard.
QuoteQuoteQuoteSince when is the E90 a small car?
:rolleyes:
Yes we know its bigger than the E46, but its still smaller than the Cobalt, Jetta, or Mazda 3. The 3-series is a premium compact sedan.
The interior volume is a hair away from the last generation 5 series. The car looks and feels cavernous.
It feels just right for a 6'2" guy like me.
I forgot dude, why did you dump the Audi?
Guys, how long should i let this thing break in? What should I keep it under? 4000?
QuoteGuys, how long should i let this thing break in? What should I keep it under? 4000?
whatever the manual says!
QuoteI forgot dude, why did you dump the Audi?
90K miles on a late 90s german car = asking for trouble
And this is basically my graduation present. My dad promised me a new 325i if I got a 34 ACT (1530 SAT) [and a shot at getting into Northwestern], and viola, that's what I got on my second time.
So we decided, why wait? Sell the Audi NOW and buy the Bimmer ASAP.
Which is what I'm doing... Still working on the Audi's paperwork though (Bad title).
If the manual doesn't give you enough information, 4000 should be just about right. Also, stay under 85mph and avoid cruise control, and highways altogether. No jackrabbit starts, and be slow when you release the clutch.
Heh, glad you like it! Yeah, I would stick to the manual. Nothing more, nothing less. Btw, did you trade in the Audi? Or did you say you will keep it since the BMW will be driven by your parents somewhat?
edit- nm, you just answered.
QuoteQuoteGuys, how long should i let this thing break in? What should I keep it under? 4000?
whatever the manual says!
I'm an idiot. I forgot the manual would say something about that.
Under 4000 miles? I always thought that once you hit 1000 miles you're pretty much in the clear.
Congrats! Sounds like an incredible ride. Col Cadillac, I imagine the 4000 = max rpms for break-in. You have to go easy on the moving parts till they all wear in properly. After 1,000 miles and an oil change, treat it like it should be treated - with love, respect and a heavy foot (but only after appropriate warm-up to get the oil moving). :rockon:
Happy travels, Faris! You lucky bastage! :lol:
QuoteGuys, how long should i let this thing break in? What should I keep it under? 4000?
It cant hurt to let the engine get worn in a little more...i would do a oil change after 1K to get the metal shavings out of of the engine (advice i got from my neighbor)...i'm doin an extended break in just because it cant hurt...the '05 is getting to the stage where it is ready for a 100mph run...now if only gas wasnt so friggin expensive :angry:
Treat it like a baby...love it and it will treat you right...
mabey thats why my relationships always suck....i love our vehicals too much :D
QuoteIf the manual doesn't give you enough information, 4000 should be just about right. Also, stay under 85mph and avoid cruise control, and highways altogether. No jackrabbit starts, and be slow when you release the clutch.
manual says under 100, under 4500 for the first 1000 miles, easy on the clutch for the first 300
As predicted, my dad took it already.
So now I can't drive it for another 4 or 5 months
I actually don't think I'm ever going to see it so now I have to go back to the 4000 lb SUV my dad bought for absolutely no reason.
:(
QuoteMy dad promised me a new 325i if I got a 34 ACT (1530 SAT) [and a shot at getting into Northwestern], and viola, that's what I got on my second time.
A viola is a musical instrument.
Voil? is the word you're thinking of. (literally translates to "there, see")
^yeah, misspelled it
QuoteAs predicted, my dad took it already.
So now I can't drive it for another 4 or 5 months
I actually don't think I'm ever going to see it so now I have to go back to the 4000 lb SUV my dad bought for absolutely no reason.
:(
Does your dad take the car and leave for 4-5 months at a time?
No... But I'm not going to able to walk for a few months after surgery.
What surgery?
I think he tore his ACL. And, where are the pics?!?!?
Ouch. My brother did that. But he didn't need surgery.
Torn ACL.
Pics... it gets dark so fast and I haven't had time... Will try soon.
The more I drive this thing, the more I realize that, for me, it really is the perfect car.
I'm eyeing the X3s real leather and power seats as opposed to the 3er's leatherette and manual seats...
Time to steal 'em. :lol:
My dad gave the A4 to a family member, btw... It's gone now... But I"m still teaching him how to drive stick.
(i'm still stuck with the X3)
You got leatherette and manual seats in the 325i?
QuoteYou got leatherette and manual seats in the 325i?
I think he said the only option was heated seats...?
For me...if I was getting black/black I think I would actually prefer the leathertte/vinyl interior to the real leather. Far more durable, and honestly I can't tell the difference unless i have both of them sitting right there.
Only reason for me to want the leather in a 3-series is for getting the better colors...grey or brown (terra?).
QuoteQuoteYou got leatherette and manual seats in the 325i?
I think he said the only option was heated seats...?
For me...if I was getting black/black I think I would actually prefer the leathertte/vinyl interior to the real leather. Far more durable, and honestly I can't tell the difference unless i have both of them sitting right there.
Only reason for me to want the leather in a 3-series is for getting the better colors...grey or brown (terra?).
Now that I've had both (and the leatherette in the Volkswagen is excellent, it's fooled practically everyone) I really do prefer leather.
Never had Leatherette, how is it different?
QuoteNever had Leatherette, how is it different?
Its vinyl basically, but much more refined than what most people think about when they think vinyl.
Its soft and grippy like leather, but it doesn't "breathe" as well as leather. This can be annoying on hot days. On the flip side its far more durable than leather. You want to keep it clean but it doesn't need to be conditioned religiously like leather, and its less likely to wear/fade/crack over time.
Actually if someone would introduce perforated leathertte that would be ideal. My mom's TSX has perforated leather which I prefer over regular leather.
I hadn't even realized that the TSX had leatherette.
QuoteI hadn't even realized that the TSX had leatherette.
It doesn't. ;) He said leather.
QuoteQuoteI hadn't even realized that the TSX had leatherette.
It doesn't. ;) He said leather.
Sorry about that. I meant to say perforated leather would be great because it would solve the one issue it really has...no breathability.
I just used the TSX to point out my preference for for perforated leather.
It's all about the cloth. :praise:
QuoteQuoteQuoteYou got leatherette and manual seats in the 325i?
I think he said the only option was heated seats...?
For me...if I was getting black/black I think I would actually prefer the leathertte/vinyl interior to the real leather. Far more durable, and honestly I can't tell the difference unless i have both of them sitting right there.
Only reason for me to want the leather in a 3-series is for getting the better colors...grey or brown (terra?).
Now that I've had both (and the leatherette in the Volkswagen is excellent, it's fooled practically everyone) I really do prefer leather.
BMW's new leatherette looks and feels as good as or better than even most competitors' real leather. Have you had a chance to check it out, I was very pleasantly surprised by it.
QuoteIt's all about the cloth. :praise:
I agree. Saab had some great cloth in the 80s and 90s. Buick's cloth is very nice too. The seats are another thing.
QuoteYou got leatherette and manual seats in the 325i?
Yeah. The manual versions come optioned wierd.
QuoteQuoteYou got leatherette and manual seats in the 325i?
Only reason for me to want the leather in a 3-series is for getting the better colors...grey or brown (terra?).
Same here.
The X3 is black leather, the 3er is black leatherette...
You really can't tell the difference.
Faris, we're dying for pics. :P :angry:
Cloth is better than leather and leatherette anyday. No frozen or scalded asses. :praise:
That's why heated (and now cooled) seats are so popular. But I personally prefer cloth's durability.
QuoteThat's why heated (and now cooled) seats are so popular. But I personally prefer cloth's durability.
Yeah, but i'd rather not have to have a warmer warm it up for me. I"ll still be freezing till it heats up (and ti takes a while in the MDX).
More and more cars have a remote starter to get the car warmed up before you get in. And cloth seats would be cold too without heaters, though not to the same extent.
Wups, I misread, you said perferated leather.
Anyhoo, Faris! Come on here, 42 pages and no pics????
QuoteCloth is better than leather and leatherette anyday. No frozen or scalded asses. :praise:
I love leather, and if I have my options, won't buy another car without it. A truck would be a different matter. The seat heaters I've used are pretty fast... you've got maybe a minute of cool time, but once they heat up, it's nice. I just like the feel of leather better than cloth, I guess. I'm not a huge fan of it during the summer, the older camry has dark navy leather, which might as well be black if you park it in Wal-Mart parking lot when it's 102 outside for anything more than five minutes. Get's a nice oven effect going rather quickly, but if you've got good A/C, or are really lucky and have a nice enough car to have ventilated seats, then you don't have any more discomfort in the heat than in a car with cloth.
QuoteMore and more cars have a remote starter to get the car warmed up before you get in. And cloth seats would be cold too without heaters, though not to the same extent.
Well, our MDX doesn't have that and the Accord doesn't have ANY heaters at all. Besides, cloth doesn't ever feel cold, unless it's like below 0 degrees.
QuoteQuoteMore and more cars have a remote starter to get the car warmed up before you get in. And cloth seats would be cold too without heaters, though not to the same extent.
Well, our MDX doesn't have that and the Accord doesn't have ANY heaters at all. Besides, cloth doesn't ever feel cold, unless it's like below 0 degrees.
I have a remote starter, and that's on a 92. <_< The 2000 was a bit more complicated to do, and would have voided warranty, but that was a while back.. I might consider installing one now. They're fun toys, if nothing else.
QuoteQuoteQuoteMore and more cars have a remote starter to get the car warmed up before you get in. And cloth seats would be cold too without heaters, though not to the same extent.
Well, our MDX doesn't have that and the Accord doesn't have ANY heaters at all. Besides, cloth doesn't ever feel cold, unless it's like below 0 degrees.
I have a remote starter, and that's on a 92. <_< The 2000 was a bit more complicated to do, and would have voided warranty, but that was a while back.. I might consider installing one now. They're fun toys, if nothing else.
Well, the Acura or Honda doesn't have any, and i just consider leather, heaters and starters gimmicks. <_<
QuoteQuoteThat's why heated (and now cooled) seats are so popular. But I personally prefer cloth's durability.
Yeah, but i'd rather not have to have a warmer warm it up for me. I"ll still be freezing till it heats up (and ti takes a while in the MDX).
ah you big baby <_< ...you wusses with your seat warmers/coolers
j/king :lol:
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteMore and more cars have a remote starter to get the car warmed up before you get in. And cloth seats would be cold too without heaters, though not to the same extent.
Well, our MDX doesn't have that and the Accord doesn't have ANY heaters at all. Besides, cloth doesn't ever feel cold, unless it's like below 0 degrees.
I have a remote starter, and that's on a 92. <_< The 2000 was a bit more complicated to do, and would have voided warranty, but that was a while back.. I might consider installing one now. They're fun toys, if nothing else.
Well, the Acura or Honda doesn't have any, and i just consider leather, heaters and starters gimmicks. <_<
No, I meant I installed it myself. I don't believe anything came with a remote starter in 92. I installed it primarily because of how hot the interior would get in the summer or cold in the winter (yeah, partially due to the leather) and since I park it under the carport, I can walk to the front living room, press the button, wait five minutes, and the car's ready to go. I guess I could keep it in the garage, if I ever get the other half cleaned out. At any rate, there's nothing gimmicky about leather. "Leather" in some older dodges, fords, and chevy's felt like glorified vinyl and I truly hated that stuff, but real, good, leather is very nice, and a matter of preference. Not a gimmick.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteMore and more cars have a remote starter to get the car warmed up before you get in. And cloth seats would be cold too without heaters, though not to the same extent.
Well, our MDX doesn't have that and the Accord doesn't have ANY heaters at all. Besides, cloth doesn't ever feel cold, unless it's like below 0 degrees.
I have a remote starter, and that's on a 92. <_< The 2000 was a bit more complicated to do, and would have voided warranty, but that was a while back.. I might consider installing one now. They're fun toys, if nothing else.
Well, the Acura or Honda doesn't have any, and i just consider leather, heaters and starters gimmicks. <_<
No, I meant I installed it myself. I don't believe anything came with a remote starter in 92. I installed it primarily because of how hot the interior would get in the summer or cold in the winter (yeah, partially due to the leather) and since I park it under the carport, I can walk to the front living room, press the button, wait five minutes, and the car's ready to go. I guess I could keep it in the garage, if I ever get the other half cleaned out. At any rate, there's nothing gimmicky about leather. "Leather" in some older dodges, fords, and chevy's felt like glorified vinyl and I truly hated that stuff, but real, good, leather is very nice, and a matter of preference. Not a gimmick.
I said I CONSIDER. ;)
QuoteQuoteQuoteThat's why heated (and now cooled) seats are so popular. But I personally prefer cloth's durability.
Yeah, but i'd rather not have to have a warmer warm it up for me. I"ll still be freezing till it heats up (and ti takes a while in the MDX).
ah you big baby <_< ...you wusses with your seat warmers/coolers
j/king :lol:
Meh, i don't use em. :praise:
You live in California dude.
QuoteYou live in California dude.
So? The leather still gets too cold, which is pretty lame. That's why i prefer cloth.
QuoteQuoteYou live in California dude.
So? The leather still gets too cold, which is pretty lame. That's why i prefer cloth.
What's the low temperature there in the winter?
QuoteQuoteQuoteYou live in California dude.
So? The leather still gets too cold, which is pretty lame. That's why i prefer cloth.
What's the low temperature there in the winter?
I'm not speaking from experience or anything, but you'd probably be surprised how cool it gets in California. The ocean currents come from up north by the Alaskan shoreline and depending on what area of the state he's in, it can get very windy as well. I'd say 40 degrees isn't uncommon.
It gets down to 40 sometimes in San Diego at night.
Wow, I am DEFINITELY getting a remote starter for Christmas. That would be SOO sick.
QuoteIt gets down to 40 sometimes in San Diego at night.
Wow, I am DEFINITELY getting a remote starter for Christmas. That would be SOO sick.
Oh, I knew it'd be cool, but considering that I'm not in northern Minnesota or anything and it can get in the single digits or occasionally below zero here was going to give me cause to throw back that he didn't have much to whine about.
Remote starters are more fun than anything, but installing them can be interesting. Mine was a bit more complex than some because I bought a combo unit, keyless entry/alarm/remote start system with trunk release, none of which the car originally had, so I had to get all kinds of wiring diagrams, remove a few sections of dash, drill some holes, etc. It took me about 8 hours to install it. If you do a remote starter on a newer vehicle with a factory alarm, you'll have to wire it to bypass the alarm, which may require an additional module. For some reason factory alarms don't like it when a vehicle starts without any reason. ;) It shouldn't be terribly hard, but don't attempt it without good wiring diagrams and a knowledge of what you're doing.
Or buy a vehicle with a factory-installed remote starter. More and more cars have them now, it's not just GMs and luxury sedans. ;)
QuoteOr buy a vehicle with a factory-installed remote starter. More and more cars have them now, it's not just GMs and luxury sedans. ;)
$200 max versus buying a new car. <_< You missed my point. :D
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteYou live in California dude.
So? The leather still gets too cold, which is pretty lame. That's why i prefer cloth.
What's the low temperature there in the winter?
I'm not speaking from experience or anything, but you'd probably be surprised how cool it gets in California. The ocean currents come from up north by the Alaskan shoreline and depending on what area of the state he's in, it can get very windy as well. I'd say 40 degrees isn't uncommon.
I live in Northern California, and while it can get cold, i never feel it... Until i sit on a leather seat... :o :lol: ;)
Pics... what can i do...
My dad has the car and the sun sets around here before 5... My dad never gets home before 6 or 7.
This weekend.
Yea, I was thinking I could get a remote starter and then take it to the Volvo dealer for them to install. I am not terribly good at installing those types of things and feel like I could end up messing something important up. I think they would do it, but how much do you think it would cost for them to install? I was thinking of just getting a relatively simple one with door lock/unlock feature (and the remote starter), but that's it. The Volvo doesn't have the "panic function" or a "trunk release" which may or may not be easier.
Why do you want a remote starter? To warm up the engine?
QuoteQuoteIt's all about the cloth. :praise:
I agree. Saab had some great cloth in the 80s and 90s. Buick's cloth is very nice too. The seats are another thing.
I can't stand Buick cloth, that is why I was so adament about leather when I was thinking about getting an old Buick.
Damn...40 degrees is still top down weather! You Californians are so pampered.
QuoteI can't stand Buick cloth, that is why I was so adamant about leather when I was thinking about getting an old Buick.
(http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/traurig/sad-smiley-028.gif)
You've obviously never been in a Buick with velour seats...
Yes I have, I hate that velour crap.
WHAT?!
Are you kidding me?!
QuoteDamn...40 degrees is still top down weather! You Californians are so pampered.
So? I wear shorts and stuff when it's less than 30 out. But cold leather just kills me.
Not one bit.
WTF is velour exactly?
(http://images.autotrader.com/images/2005/11/3/191/807/1930064179.191807518.IM1.03.240x180_A.240x180.jpg)
Not bad looking actually. B)
QuoteQuoteOr buy a vehicle with a factory-installed remote starter. More and more cars have them now, it's not just GMs and luxury sedans. ;)
$200 max versus buying a new car. <_< You missed my point. :D
I was kidding. It would be like buying a new car because you want a better stereo, or your car doesn't have floormats.
QuoteYes I have, I hate that velour crap.
:angry:
Velour is the greatest fabric ever devised by man
P I C T U R E S
(There was a bit of rain the other day, the kind that makes cars dirty :()
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I took a lot of redundant pictures but whatever.
Congrats fool.
Looks beautiful, man. :rockon: I'm surprised, but I like the wood combo better than the aluminum, actually.
I really like the rims, I didn't know those were standard. I also didn't realize that satellite (I'm assuming that's what's on the roof) and steering wheel-mounted controls were standard.
I wasn't going to buy the car if it had aluminum. I wanted wood no matter what.
Yeah, the fin, moonroof, and the steering controls are all standard.
Very nice car :)
Absolutely gorgeous! :o :rockon:
I don't really like the wheels or the brake dust on teh wheels.
I like the wheels, they are extremely nice IMO. And I am happy to report that almost every new 3er I have seen has been a manual :praise:
The sport package wheels are much nicer. imo.
Does it smell good?
Some good photography, there, Faris.
Cool driveway, too. I've always wondered what a driveway that isn't tarmac feels like.
You've never driven on a concrete drive way? :o
QuoteYou've never driven on a concrete drive way? :o
I've driven on, but never lived with. I hear tire marks are nigh impossible to remove.
Thanks guys.
QuoteI don't really like the wheels or the brake dust on teh wheels.
I like the wheels, although bigger ones would have been nice [Oh well].
Brake dust... BMWs are notorious for that. The X3 is even worse.
I guess I just gotta whipe off the wheels every week or so.
QuoteDoes it smell good?
Yeah. Even though it's leatherette, it smells very nice. :lol:
QuoteQuoteYou've never driven on a concrete drive way? :o
I've driven on, but never lived with. I hear tire marks are nigh impossible to remove.
We've never really tried. Not really that big of a deal I guess.
2 of our last 3 houses have had concrete driveways. The other one was actually brick.
I kind of like the Audi-esque little info display between the tach and speedo. It gives you either average speed, remaining mileage to fill-up, or average mpg. And it allows you to edit some settings (like the brightness of the interior at night) and do a full-system check.
We were invited somewhere today in the north suburbs. Around a 60-70 mile round trip. On the way there, there was ridiculously heavy rain (The Audi def. feels a little more balanced in that situation, but I got used to it pretty fast), on the way back a very strong crosswind. It's going to be interesting to see what kind of gas mileage we're getting. I'm expecting around 25 because it's still breaking in.
It's got over 700 miles now, so only around 300 more to go before I don't feel guilty about a redline shift. I think my dad's letting me take it this week before next week's surgery.
QuoteQuoteYou've never driven on a concrete drive way? :o
I've driven on, but never lived with. I hear tire marks are nigh impossible to remove.
We've never had problems with tire marks, as long as you drive at reasonable speeds there is no reason they should be there in the first place.
QuoteQuoteDoes it smell good?
Yeah. Even though it's leatherette, it smells very nice. :lol:
The leatherette looks a-ok in the pics. Consider me fooled.
QuoteQuoteQuoteDoes it smell good?
Yeah. Even though it's leatherette, it smells very nice. :lol:
The leatherette looks a-ok in the pics. Consider me fooled.
It feels very similar too.
I actually kind of favor the leatherette only because it lasts longer and takes more punishment. I already have to worry about keeping a black car clean inside and out.
Actually, my biggest pet peeve right now is the color.
The black looks amazing on this car, but, wow, just a bit of rain makes it dirty. The Audi's red looked the same after a hail storm.
Leatherette is really the way to go if you dont absolutely "NEED" full scale leather. It looks basically the same, it takes more wear and tear, and its cheaper.
QuoteLeatherette is really the way to go if you dont absolutely "NEED" full scale leather. It looks basically the same, it takes more wear and tear, and its cheaper.
I haven't had a chance to see what BMW's leatherette is like... I'm kindof picky when it comes to leather (as much as I can be, anyway) but I've heard really good things about the leatherette. The only new 3 series I've been in had normal leather, but I'd like to see one with leatherette.
QuoteQuoteLeatherette is really the way to go if you dont absolutely "NEED" full scale leather. It looks basically the same, it takes more wear and tear, and its cheaper.
I haven't had a chance to see what BMW's leatherette is like... I'm kindof picky when it comes to leather (as much as I can be, anyway) but I've heard really good things about the leatherette. The only new 3 series I've been in had normal leather, but I'd like to see one with leatherette.
BMW's leatherette is so good that it comes to the point where there is almost no reason to spend a lot extra for the 'real deal.'
QuoteQuoteQuoteLeatherette is really the way to go if you dont absolutely "NEED" full scale leather.? It looks basically the same, it takes more wear and tear, and its cheaper.
I haven't had a chance to see what BMW's leatherette is like... I'm kindof picky when it comes to leather (as much as I can be, anyway) but I've heard really good things about the leatherette. The only new 3 series I've been in had normal leather, but I'd like to see one with leatherette.
BMW's leatherette is so good that it comes to the point where there is almost no reason to spend a lot extra for the 'real deal.'
Unfortunately, you're stuck if you want the premium package.
I pretty much don't care what the Volvo looks like, as long as there isn't a huge scrape or something similar down the side it's alright with me. The Audi or Infiniti...I would get pretty pissed even though they aren't my cars.
QuoteQuoteQuoteLeatherette is really the way to go if you dont absolutely "NEED" full scale leather.? It looks basically the same, it takes more wear and tear, and its cheaper.
I haven't had a chance to see what BMW's leatherette is like... I'm kindof picky when it comes to leather (as much as I can be, anyway) but I've heard really good things about the leatherette. The only new 3 series I've been in had normal leather, but I'd like to see one with leatherette.
BMW's leatherette is so good that it comes to the point where there is almost no reason to spend a lot extra for the 'real deal.'
Hmm. I'm intrigued.
I'm kind of glad I'm not the only one raving about how close BMW leatherette is to the real thing...
My Audi was leatherette, too... But there's a huge difference between Audi vinyl and Audi leather (Because the vinyl wasn't that great and their leather is incredible).
It's going to be interesting to see how the 3er's leatherette holds up in the coming years compared to the X3s leather.
QuoteI'm kind of glad I'm not the only one raving about how close BMW leatherette is to the real thing...
My Audi was leatherette, too... But there's a huge difference between Audi vinyl and Audi leather (Because the vinyl wasn't that great and their leather is incredible).
It's going to be interesting to see how the 3er's leatherette holds up in the coming years compared to the X3s leather.
My dad bought leatherette seats in my 84 3er back in september of 83-even after being used for 50K or so miles, and then being stored, the seats look like the day they were bought (besides the dust and what not). No rips, tears, or anything to speak of. BMW leatherette is truly very good.
Dave... who drives the '84 3er? How many miles?
QuoteI'm kind of glad I'm not the only one raving about how close BMW leatherette is to the real thing...
My Audi was leatherette, too... But there's a huge difference between Audi vinyl and Audi leather (Because the vinyl wasn't that great and their leather is incredible).
It's going to be interesting to see how the 3er's leatherette holds up in the coming years compared to the X3s leather.
I don't think Audi does leatherette on the "seating surfaces" anymore. Its basically cloth or leather.
I think the doors and seatbacks are "leatherette" though, but honestly I cannot tell one way or another. The leather of the actual seats are nice though. Soft, but not too squishy that they feel fragile. I just wish they had perforated leather like my mom's TSX. Overall though I have to say my mom's seats are inferior (though I wouldn't tell her that :P ).
Congrats on the car. It really is great looking. That Jet Black is going to be a pain to keep clean though. It will look better if you take care of it...back when I was buying my A4 I compared a Jet Black and Metallic Black right next to each other and very much preferred the Jet Black. I really dig it.
One thing I wish the 325i had though was the 18 inchers from the 330i. Those are the best looking wheels I have seen on any of the current models (5er and Z4 included). My second favorite though are the 17 inches that come with the 525i sport. I don't really care for the 18 inchers on the 530i sport.
^Yeah, the black is already starting to look dirty. It looks so good, though... Especially on cloudy days.
I think I'm going to get some Zano...
Once I get enough cash, I might buy bigger wheels and tint the rear windows.
QuoteDave... who drives the '84 3er? How many miles?
Sadly, no one :( Maybe my we'll fix it up and my brother will use it in College.
Youre not going to believe this, but it has 40K miles.
That thing would be fun.
QuoteThat thing would be fun.
Yup! Its not gone yet, I hope to revitalize it sometime :)
QuoteQuoteThat thing would be fun.
Yup! Its not gone yet, I hope to revitalize it sometime :)
What's wrong with it? 40K miles is a little soon too give out, even if it is 22 years old....and German. :lol:
QuoteQuoteQuoteThat thing would be fun.
Yup! Its not gone yet, I hope to revitalize it sometime :)
What's wrong with it? 40K miles is a little soon to give out, even if it is 22 years old....and German. :lol:
:D They can go to 200K easily...its still got lots of life left in it :lol:
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteThat thing would be fun.
Yup! Its not gone yet, I hope to revitalize it sometime :)
What's wrong with it? 40K miles is a little soon to give out, even if it is 22 years old....and German. :lol:
:D They can go to 200K easily...its still got lots of life left in it :lol:
True that. But my question was what's wrong with it? You said it would need to be fixed up.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteThat thing would be fun.
Yup! Its not gone yet, I hope to revitalize it sometime :)
What's wrong with it? 40K miles is a little soon to give out, even if it is 22 years old....and German. :lol:
:D They can go to 200K easily...its still got lots of life left in it :lol:
True that. But my question was what's wrong with it? You said it would need to be fixed up.
There was an aftermarket alarm system installed on the car...basically it prevented it from being stolen by cutting fuel to the engine. The alarm system has gone haywire, so every time the car starts, its shut right off by the alarm system. That would have to be disabled.
It also idles at about 2800 rpm, so the idle sensor would have to be reset or fixed.
Other than that, I dont know if theres anything else wrong with it. Maybe next summer its getting the full fix up job :rockon:
Ha ha, those are both pretty funny problems to have. :D From where I'm standing anyway.
A buddy of mine from high school had a speedo that was on the fritz. Said he was going 10 mph while sitting at a stoplight. I think he actually got pulled over once, showed the cop the speedometer and tried to convince him that he was actually going 5 over instead of 15.
"Since I start at 10 mph, you see?" :D
QuoteHa ha, those are both pretty funny problems to have. :D From where I'm standing anyway.
A buddy of mine from high school had a speedo that was on the fritz. Said he was going 10 mph while sitting at a stoplight. I think he actually got pulled over once, showed the cop the speedometer and tried to convince him that he was actually going 5 over instead of 15.
"Since I start at 10 mph, you see?" :D
Let me see if I can find a video of what the car does...
QuoteHa ha, those are both pretty funny problems to have. :D From where I'm standing anyway.
A buddy of mine from high school had a speedo that was on the fritz. Said he was going 10 mph while sitting at a stoplight. I think he actually got pulled over once, showed the cop the speedometer and tried to convince him that he was actually going 5 over instead of 15.
"Since I start at 10 mph, you see?" :D
Mine does that. Constantly stuck just below 20, I do 20 standing still, 20 on the highway...
Heres a video of what the car does:
Video (http://media.putfile.com/BMW88)
The wacky alarm shuts the engine off.
QuoteHeres a video of what the car does:
Video (http://media.putfile.com/BMW88)
The wacky alarm shuts the engine off.
It says it can't find the server.
QuoteQuoteHa ha, those are both pretty funny problems to have. :D From where I'm standing anyway.
A buddy of mine from high school had a speedo that was on the fritz. Said he was going 10 mph while sitting at a stoplight. I think he actually got pulled over once, showed the cop the speedometer and tried to convince him that he was actually going 5 over instead of 15.
"Since I start at 10 mph, you see?" :D
Mine does that. Constantly stuck just below 20, I do 20 standing still, 20 on the highway...
LOL. :lol:
QuoteHeres a video of what the car does:
Video (http://media.putfile.com/BMW88)
The wacky alarm shuts the engine off.
Wacky, ha ha. Well at least it's doing its job (albeit a little too well). That was a hell of a video Dave; so good, I ran out for popcorn.
That vid was a bit too short dave.
QuoteQuoteHeres a video of what the car does:
Video (http://media.putfile.com/BMW88)
The wacky alarm shuts the engine off.
Wacky, ha ha. Well at least it's doing its job (albeit a little too well). That was a hell of a video Dave; so good, I ran out for popcorn.
I do what I can :lol:
Okay, one thing about this car is really pissing me off...
I just can't make a smooth launch or 1-2 shift. It's ridiculously hard...
http://zeckhausen.com/cdv.htm#Theory%20of%20Operation (http://zeckhausen.com/cdv.htm#Theory%20of%20Operation)
^That's the reason.
I'm still trying to figure out why they throw the stupid Clutch Disengagement Valve in there.
And I really wish it didn't have Drive-By-Wire.
Can you modify that to be the way you like?
I think you can... Just takes some work and risking a warranty problem.
I want to find out more about this, though.
You see, today I actually had to floor it out of the toll booth (was nearly at rest) and I did a near-redline shift really fast from 1-2 and let off the clutch really fast (btw, my tires chirped... I get the feeling this thing can hit 60 in the mid-6s easy if not faster), something that would cause a lot of other cars to sustain clutch damage and rock. But the shift actually turned out very smooth...
QuoteBecause of this valve, no matter how quickly you lift your foot off the clutch pedal, the clutch engages the flywheel at a constant (slow) rate. In theory, it can save the drive train from shock, were an inexperienced (or teenage) driver to dump the clutch at high RPM.
If that's true, this could be great... Because it would mean even your fastest shifts would turn out smooth (except for the fact that torque is massive in 2nd gear).
It's sort of too good to be true, though...
I wouldn't really care about that kind of valve junk. I'm always easy on a clutch, and i dn't do redline shifts.
Hmm- wait till the warrantys up!
QuoteI wouldn't really care about that kind of valve junk. I'm always easy on a clutch, and i dn't do redline shifts.
Yeah. I am too. Problem is, this little bastard makes it ridiculously hard to make smooth shifts (and I'm going very easy on the car, still breaking it in). I'm thinking BMW has this thing in there, they don't even want you to try to make smooth shifts using the clutch's friction point, just let it go.
Like I said, I've been trying to avoid quick shifting, but it seems like no-brainer shifts are what the car wants you to do.
I'll try it out tomorrow.
If it keeps bothering me, I might have to remove it and buy a replacement that appears just like a normal one ($35 from Zeckenhausen), if only for warranty purposes.
I drive stick better than anyone I know (It got to a point in the A4 when people would go places with me and wouldn't notice until the end that the car was stick) and this thing is making me feel silly. This is the first time I've ever had to drive a car with a Clutch Delay Valve, and the little thing is a bitch.
QuoteI wouldn't really care about that kind of valve junk. I'm always easy on a clutch, and i dn't do redline shifts.
That's because you've never driven a MT car that you own... ;) :lol:
Well, it seems that with the Zeckenhausen mod, there's no way in hell the BMW guys will ever know you modified it - unless they're suspicious of the CDV in particular.
See, the problem is, I don't want to be concentrating on smooth shifts. It HAS to become second nature like it was before or I won't even think twice about throwing that piece of junk out of my car.
Go for it then
But, keep the old one so that if you ever have any clutch related problems you can swap it back in before you go to the dealer. :lol:
I'm hearing that it also increases clutch wear (so it's actually failing at its purpose) becasue it lets the clutch slip more.
QuoteBut, keep the old one so that if you ever have any clutch related problems you can swap it back in before you go to the dealer. :lol:
That's what I'm thinking.
Double-clutching is a possible solution...
Clutch Delay Valve, eh? That's actually quite ingenious. In theory it should make it even easier to drive, I would think. No worrying about friction points, just let off the clutch pedal and let it do the work.
Bet it makes takeoff from a standstill annoying though.
^See, that's the problem... "In theory"....
I'm going to start trying it out. Even if it works, I'm still going to be worried about clutch wear, because I still refuse to believe it's possible to have a fail-proof mechanism like that. If it turns out to be the real deal, that would be awesome.
Taking off from a standstill I'm starting to get the hang of (The main problem with that is that the 325 idles at around 600. Kind of low, and the first bit of gas pedal travel has very little effect). It's more the 1-2 and even 2-3 shift that are annoying me.
E90 forums are filled with complaints about this thing. Even Drive-By-Wire isn't anywhere near as annoying (not that bad actually).
Don't you love it when engeneers overthink? <_<
Honestly I am surprised you are having this much trouble. When I went to the 3er "premier" event I hopped right in and was probably shifting smoother in the 3ers than I was with my own car. When I went back to my A4 I felt jerky for a few shifts.
Maybe you are overthinking it. Just do what feels natural and see how it works out, rather than trying to treat the 325i like your A4.
QuoteDon't you love it when engeineers overthink? <_<
Better than the ones who don't think very much at all. :ph34r:
There is a propagation of overengineering with technology to keep the car safe from the driver these days (Mercedes is one of the biggest culprits, and though BMW keeps it quiet, it is not far behind) and all it does is keep the driver from involvement--the one thing that used to set BMWs apart from the rest of the competition. I fear that the industy as a whole (except for Lotus, it seems) is beginning to think that the person shouldn't drive the car, but the car should drive the person. I've heard rumors of such a system before the pictures of the E90 leaked, and more rumors that a similar, though less intrusive system was installed on the E46 as well. BMW has forgotten what "sport" means, and has replaced it with "computer". Even race-ready Evos have a system that doesn't allow you to drop the clutch with the revs above 5000, and that's not the best way to embarass the Ferrari driver next to you at a stoplight. Your drop point would be best higher.
We're heading into a dark automotive age.
QuoteThere is a propagation of overengineering with technology to keep the car safe from the driver these days (Mercedes is one of the biggest culprits, and though BMW keeps it quiet, it is not far behind) and all it does is keep the driver from involvement--the one thing that used to set BMWs apart from the rest of the competition. I fear that the industy as a whole (except for Lotus, it seems) is beginning to think that the person shouldn't drive the car, but the car should drive the person. I've heard rumors of such a system before the pictures of the E90 leaked, and more rumors that a similar, though less intrusive system was installed on the E46 as well. BMW has forgotten what "sport" means, and has replaced it with "computer". Even race-ready Evos have a system that doesn't allow you to drop the clutch with the revs above 5000, and that's not the best way to embarass the Ferrari driver next to you at a stoplight. Your drop point would be best higher.
We're heading into a dark automotive age.
The E46 and later E36s had it, too.
I wanna get rid of it.
Honestly, this is the only techno-gizmo that's bothering me. I love everything else.
Quote
Maybe you are overthinking it. Just do what feels natural and see how it works out, rather than trying to treat the 325i like your A4.
Doing what's natural results in a shudder and makes me wonder if my clutch will last more than a week.
QuoteQuoteThere is a propagation of overengineering with technology to keep the car safe from the driver these days (Mercedes is one of the biggest culprits, and though BMW keeps it quiet, it is not far behind) and all it does is keep the driver from involvement--the one thing that used to set BMWs apart from the rest of the competition. I fear that the industy as a whole (except for Lotus, it seems) is beginning to think that the person shouldn't drive the car, but the car should drive the person. I've heard rumors of such a system before the pictures of the E90 leaked, and more rumors that a similar, though less intrusive system was installed on the E46 as well. BMW has forgotten what "sport" means, and has replaced it with "computer". Even race-ready Evos have a system that doesn't allow you to drop the clutch with the revs above 5000, and that's not the best way to embarass the Ferrari driver next to you at a stoplight. Your drop point would be best higher.
We're heading into a dark automotive age.
The E46 and later E36s had it, too.
I wanna get rid of it.
Honestly, this is the only techno-gizmo that's bothering me. I love everything else.
Have you checked your oil yet...?
:ph34r:
So how's the college applying going?
I guess I'm wondering why we haven't heard any complaints in magazine reviews about this. Seems like the type of thing they'd be all over.
Maybe they're used to a wider range of behavior?
QuoteMaybe they're used to a wider range of behavior?
I suppose that's true, and I do remember them saying the E90 shifter wasn't quite as slick as the E36, but this seems like something more severe or quirky than that. I don't know though, I'm interested to hear how this works out.
And Faris, how's the push-button start working for you?
QuoteI guess I'm wondering why we haven't heard any complaints in magazine reviews about this. Seems like the type of thing they'd be all over.
(http://www.sniffpetrol.com/AdBMWShit.jpg)
lol :D Faris might not approve.
I think Faris will understand it's satire, and will acknowledge most automotive journalists are not particularly critical of BMWs.
QuoteI think Faris will understand it's satire, and will acknowledge most automotive journalists are not particularly critical of BMWs.
I don't know, iDrive on BMWs has aroused more disgust than Bill on Monica.
QuoteQuoteQuoteThere is a propagation of overengineering with technology to keep the car safe from the driver these days (Mercedes is one of the biggest culprits, and though BMW keeps it quiet, it is not far behind) and all it does is keep the driver from involvement--the one thing that used to set BMWs apart from the rest of the competition. I fear that the industy as a whole (except for Lotus, it seems) is beginning to think that the person shouldn't drive the car, but the car should drive the person. I've heard rumors of such a system before the pictures of the E90 leaked, and more rumors that a similar, though less intrusive system was installed on the E46 as well. BMW has forgotten what "sport" means, and has replaced it with "computer". Even race-ready Evos have a system that doesn't allow you to drop the clutch with the revs above 5000, and that's not the best way to embarass the Ferrari driver next to you at a stoplight. Your drop point would be best higher.
We're heading into a dark automotive age.
The E46 and later E36s had it, too.
I wanna get rid of it.
Honestly, this is the only techno-gizmo that's bothering me. I love everything else.
Have you checked your oil yet...?
:ph34r:
Oil's fine, the car's computer gives you the level if you ask for it.
You mean tranny oil?
Like I said, a lot of people on the E90 forums are complaining about the clutch, and a few have swapped out their CDV's.
If my dad lets me, I'm seriously going to think about doing it.
QuoteSo how's the college applying going?
I applied early to Northwestern, as planned, about 2 weeks ago. I get their response within the next 3-4 weeks. If I'm accepted, I'm done, and I'll be enrolling at their Medill School of Journalism next year (Regarded by many to be one the world's best undergrad journalism programs :praise:).
But it's a big "If", as it really is ridiculously hard to get into N'Western.
If I'm not accepted there, I'm probably going to apply to the University of Chicago as my second choice, and either Loyola University or DePaul University to fall back on and eventually transfer to N'Western after my first semester or freshman year.
Quote
And Faris, how's the push-button start working for you?
I had my first experience with a push button starter this week. If it weren't for the amazing car wrapped around it, I wouldn't have liked it all. It's a completely unnecessary feature.
QuoteI guess I'm wondering why we haven't heard any complaints in magazine reviews about this. Seems like the type of thing they'd be all over.
You know, I was wondering the same thing...
Then again, they're driving these things really hard all the time. They're not exactly concentrating on everyday clutch-life-prolonging driving. And that's where you really don't feel the CDV's effects anymore: 6,000RPM shift.
QuoteQuoteSo how's the college applying going?
I applied early to Northwestern, as planned, about 2 weeks ago. I get their response within the next 3-4 weeks. If I'm accepted, I'm done, and I'll be enrolling at their Medill School of Journalism next year (Regarded by many to be one the world's best undergrad journalism programs :praise:).
But it's a big "If", as it really is ridiculously hard to get into N'Western.
If I'm not accepted there, I'm probably going to apply to the University of Chicago as my second choice, and either Loyola University or DePaul University to fall back on and eventually transfer to N'Western after my first semester or freshman year.
If you don't get into Northwestern, you think Chicago will take you?
QuoteQuoteMaybe they're used to a wider range of behavior?
I suppose that's true, and I do remember them saying the E90 shifter wasn't quite as slick as the E36, but this seems like something more severe or quirky than that. I don't know though, I'm interested to hear how this works out.
And Faris, how's the push-button start working for you?
The shifter itself I actually like. It should get slicker as time goes on, and it's very defined. I also like how it's very biased towards the center position (Which makes 2-4 shifts very easy and, more importantly, also helps avoid the 'Money shift').
Push button start is actually kind of cool. Not really necessary, but cool.
QuoteQuoteI guess I'm wondering why we haven't heard any complaints in magazine reviews about this. Seems like the type of thing they'd be all over.
(http://www.sniffpetrol.com/AdBMWShit.jpg)
:lol:
QuoteI think Faris will understand it's satire, and will acknowledge most automotive journalists are not particularly critical of BMWs.
True.
QuoteQuoteQuoteSo how's the college applying going?
I applied early to Northwestern, as planned, about 2 weeks ago. I get their response within the next 3-4 weeks. If I'm accepted, I'm done, and I'll be enrolling at their Medill School of Journalism next year (Regarded by many to be one the world's best undergrad journalism programs :praise:).
But it's a big "If", as it really is ridiculously hard to get into N'Western.
If I'm not accepted there, I'm probably going to apply to the University of Chicago as my second choice, and either Loyola University or DePaul University to fall back on and eventually transfer to N'Western after my first semester or freshman year.
If you don't get into Northwestern, you think Chicago will take you?
I don't know. NU is harder to get into, but they both look for different things in a student.
NU wants a smart student-athlete with interests and a social life. They'd rather have a 3.5 GPA 30ACT student who started on a high school team and was a part of 3 or 4 clubs than the 4.2GPA 35ACT dork.
Chicago doesn't really seem to care, it's all about the brains. That's why their atmosphere is so ridiculously academic and high-pressure when compared to NU.
QuoteQuoteI wouldn't really care about that kind of valve junk. I'm always easy on a clutch, and i dn't do redline shifts.
That's because you've never driven a MT car that you own... ;) :lol:
Huh?
QuoteQuoteSo how's the college applying going?
I applied early to Northwestern, as planned, about 2 weeks ago. I get their response within the next 3-4 weeks. If I'm accepted, I'm done, and I'll be enrolling at their Medill School of Journalism next year (Regarded by many to be one the world's best undergrad journalism programs :praise:).
But it's a big "If", as it really is ridiculously hard to get into N'Western.
If I'm not accepted there, I'm probably going to apply to the University of Chicago as my second choice, and either Loyola University or DePaul University to fall back on and eventually transfer to N'Western after my first semester or freshman year.
Crap you're a high achiever. A friend of mine was deferred from Chicago and she had a 1560 on the SAT's. She got in later, but still, it's pretty tough.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteThere is a propagation of overengineering with technology to keep the car safe from the driver these days (Mercedes is one of the biggest culprits, and though BMW keeps it quiet, it is not far behind) and all it does is keep the driver from involvement--the one thing that used to set BMWs apart from the rest of the competition.? I fear that the industy as a whole (except for Lotus, it seems) is beginning to think that the person shouldn't drive the car, but the car should drive the person.? I've heard rumors of such a system before the pictures of the E90 leaked, and more rumors that a similar, though less intrusive system was installed on the E46 as well.? BMW has forgotten what "sport" means, and has replaced it with "computer".? Even race-ready Evos have a system that doesn't allow you to drop the clutch with the revs above 5000, and that's not the best way to embarass the Ferrari driver next to you at a stoplight.? Your drop point would be best higher.?
We're heading into a dark automotive age.
The E46 and later E36s had it, too.
I wanna get rid of it.
Honestly, this is the only techno-gizmo that's bothering me. I love everything else.
Have you checked your oil yet...?
:ph34r:
Oil's fine, the car's computer gives you the level if you ask for it.
You mean tranny oil?
No, I was referring to the fact that you can't actually check your oil. That was one thing that bugged me when I was checking out the new 3er.
You can't check the oil? There's no dipstick?
Nope. It gives you the readout if you ask for it. Easy to bring up.
QuoteQuoteQuoteI wouldn't really care about that kind of valve junk. I'm always easy on a clutch, and i dn't do redline shifts.
That's because you've never driven a MT car that you own... ;) :lol:
Huh?
I suspect when you get a car that you feel like you can abuse you will do a redline shift every once in a while, I certainly intend to.
Just saw this and holy s*** 19 40 post pages. :ph34r: ^_^
QuoteNope. It gives you the readout if you ask for it. Easy to bring up.
Its just a prettier version of a dummy light. :(
Not a deal breaker or anything, but pretty annoying to me. I have always been pretty religious about checking my cars fluids/tires.
I'm going to write a letter to BMW NA about this.
One simple demand: Have a dealership take my CDV out without voiding my warranty.
My dad's not willing to let me risk warranty trouble with even a replacement. :(
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI wouldn't really care about that kind of valve junk. I'm always easy on a clutch, and i dn't do redline shifts.
That's because you've never driven a MT car that you own... ;) :lol:
Huh?
I suspect when you get a car that you feel like you can abuse you will do a redline shift every once in a while, I certainly intend to.
Redline shift does nothing bad if you know what you're doing.
QuoteQuoteNope. It gives you the readout if you ask for it. Easy to bring up.
Its just a prettier version of a dummy light. :(
Yeah.
QuoteNope. It gives you the readout if you ask for it. Easy to bring up.
That sucks. I don't trust computers.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI wouldn't really care about that kind of valve junk. I'm always easy on a clutch, and i dn't do redline shifts.
That's because you've never driven a MT car that you own... ;) :lol:
Huh?
I suspect when you get a car that you feel like you can abuse you will do a redline shift every once in a while, I certainly intend to.
Redline shift does nothing bad if you know what you're doing.
Yes, but if the owner of a car is riding shotgun it probably isn't a great idea to push it hard, I certainly wouldn't appreciate that sort of behavior.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI wouldn't really care about that kind of valve junk. I'm always easy on a clutch, and i dn't do redline shifts.
That's because you've never driven a MT car that you own... ;) :lol:
Huh?
I suspect when you get a car that you feel like you can abuse you will do a redline shift every once in a while, I certainly intend to.
Redline shift does nothing bad if you know what you're doing.
Yes, but if the owner of a car is riding shotgun it probably isn't a great idea to push it hard, I certainly wouldn't appreciate that sort of behavior.
Yeah, true.
I hate computers so much.
QuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteQuoteI wouldn't really care about that kind of valve junk. I'm always easy on a clutch, and i dn't do redline shifts.
That's because you've never driven a MT car that you own... ;) :lol:
Huh?
I suspect when you get a car that you feel like you can abuse you will do a redline shift every once in a while, I certainly intend to.
Redline shift does nothing bad if you know what you're doing.
Yes, but if the owner of a car is riding shotgun it probably isn't a great idea to push it hard, I certainly wouldn't appreciate that sort of behavior.
i most certainly wouldnt abuse an owners car like that...unless he said 'go for it'
then i would be all over it.....makin him/her wet their pants :lol: B)
When BMW makes me wish I bought an Automatic, they've really pissed me off.
QuoteWhen BMW makes me wish I bought an Automatic, they've really pissed me off.
You must be running a fever! :o
I'd be willing to trade. My car has a lovely 4-speed auto... :lol:
I'm going to find a way to get rid of that CDV.
Or I'm just going to drive like an idiot and burn through the clutch in 20,000 miles just to have them repair it and prove a point.
A lot of mechanics have said that the stupid thing cuts clutch life by more than 50%.
What does your dad think about how it drives?
If you quietly remove it, will it ever go noticed if/when you go in for waranty-covered work?
My dad doesn't give two craps about how smooth his shifts are. It's painful to be in the car when he's driving.
He's not letting me do any aftermarket work.
I'm wondering if Dinan will do this. That would be awesome, since Dinan modifications fine with the warranty.
QuoteIf you quietly remove it, will it ever go noticed if/when you go in for waranty-covered work?
Not unless they somehow have a hunch the CDV's been modified and they take it out to have a look inside.
Otherwise, no.
Some exaggeration and bullshitting... This is what I sent them:
QuoteTo whom it may concern:
I bought an E90 325i around 3 weeks ago.
I have never owned an automatic vehicle. I do not intend to do so in the near future. The last car I owned, a 1999 Audi A4 quattro, had a superb 5-Speed manual. Operating it became second nature to me. Of course, I purchased my 325i with the 6-speed manual transmission. After all, aren?t BMW transmissions supposed to be among the best in the world?
Everything about the car is excellent. As you would know, it possesses a superb power plant, and an excellent ride/handling compromise with a very nice interior and great exterior styling.
However, the 325i, and pretty much any new BMW outfitted with a manual transmission within the last few years has one horrible flaw: The clutch delay valve (or "CDV").
BMW purists and car enthusiasts across the board have been loud in their criticism of this system, and many have had aftermarket modifications to remove the valve.
Since the clutch delay valve puts a limit on the driver's control of the flywheel, it inevitably makes it ridiculously difficult to execute smooth, quick shifts that don't wear down the clutch plate. This is a terrible shortcoming in an otherwise superb transmission. This also increases clutch wear - mechanics have estimated that the CDV alone can reduce clutch life by over 50%. That makes sense? Since the CDV allows the clutch to continue slipping even after the driver has completely released the clutch and applied the gas, the effect is inevitable.
I have been driving manuals for years now, and I have never had an issue with making smooth shifts. My 325i is past its break-in period, and taking off, along with the 1-2 shift in particular, are still incredibly difficult to execute to my standards. The CDV makes experienced drivers look like novices - while taking away from the car's ?fun? factor. Are BMWs not the "Ultimate Driving Machine?" Then why are we so limited by a system that clearly takes away from the driving experience?
It is obvious that anyone buying a manual BMW ? and not just the M models - is buying it for driving pleasure. Why have normal models been outfitted with CDVs when all M models (with the exception of some E46 M3s) have been exempt from this contraption? Obviously, the engineers know that the CDV has a negative effect on the driving experience. What boggles me is why this negative effect is acceptable in 330i?s and 545i?s when it is clearly not acceptable in an M5 (And, behold, E39 M5s were never fitted with CDVs even though their 540i 6-Speed siblings were).
I understand that having the CDV removed may result in my warranty being declared void if it is discovered. I find this to be unacceptable. I believe this is a car that is too perfect to be flawed by such a small bolt in the clutch line. Furthermore, there is absolutely no evidence that the absence of the CDV may have any negative effect on the transmission or drive train.
Although this may seem far-fetched, as a first-time BMW owner, I am requesting that BMW of North America authorizes my dealership to remove my CDV without any penalties on my warranty.
Another possibility would be that BMW offers this to be done through either its own dealerships or Dinan facilities as a performance upgrade under warranty. I am not alone, and I believe that many would love the opportunity to have their CDVs removed under factory warranty.
Thank you for your attention.
I'm really surprised no one has ever noticed this thing and that BMWs aren't notorious for it.
A lot of other cars have had it, though. Some Corvettes got it. If you go to the Audi forums you'll find a lot of threads by really pissed-off S4 owners. Hyundai Tiburons got it.
I don't think you'll get in any trouble for removing it.
QuoteI don't think you'll get in any trouble for removing it.
I don't either. Unfortunately, my dad isn't convinced.
QuoteQuoteI don't think you'll get in any trouble for removing it.
I don't either. Unfortunately, my dad isn't convinced.
It's brand new, nearly $35K, I don't blame him. It would be one heck of a gamble to risk voiding the warranty, I've got to say. Especially on a first year model from a historically unreliable manufacturer.
Seriously, BMW wouldn't void the whole frikin warrantly because a small, unnecessary, isolated part is taken out. That would be stupid on their part and they would surely piss off and possibly lose a customer that just gave them 35k.
They probably wouldn't void the whole warranty. But if you went in there with a tranny problem, they'd probably act up.
I think i'm just gonna try to get used to this thing and stop being so concerned about how smooth my shifts are.
When is warranty up?
QuoteWhen is warranty up?
3 years i think... but by that time, he might as well get used to it.
4 years, 50,000 miles.
How fast do you think you'll use up 50,000 miles?
5 or 6 years.
I would see if Dinan would take it out for you first of all.
I'm starting to get used to it...
I'm finding that it's less annoying as time goes on. A change in seating position also helped.
Have you asked the dealer about it?
No...
I figure I'll just let it go for now until I can see how it feels with some more miles stacked on.
Well, it seems the blasted CDV is having less and less of an effect on my driving...
960 miles now... Only 40 more break-in miles (But i haven't exactly been a saint for the past 200 or so... my MPG is suffering... I'm addicted to exploring the 325s ridiculous powerband in 2nd gear)
BTW i took some awesome pictures today. Will upload and post a few later tonight.
Did I ever mention how much I love this car?
Oh, and my dad is starting to refer to it as "Farris's car" :praise:
He claims he's glad to have his X3 back but I think he's bullshitting me. He loves the 325i. I think it's his favorite car out of all the ones he's ever owned (Maybe except his 944 Turbo back in '92 or my Mom's E32 735i)
Then again, the X3 is pretty darn nice in its own way (a very unique way, though), and he DID make that choice himself to buy it. Plus, it has the best BMW color (Blue Water).
WHERE ARE THE DAMN PICTURES, FARIS?? :D
QuoteP I C T U R E S
(There was a bit of rain the other day, the kind that makes cars dirty :()
(http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/faroos87/3-Series/051f5df7.jpg)
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I took a lot of redundant pictures but whatever.
;)
Think of it as 330i lite.
BY DAVE VANDERWERP
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AARON KILEY
November 2005
Here's a question we'd like ESPN to ask some NASCAR driver on one of its illuminating jock-sniffing quiz shows: Name a car under 35 grand that employs weight-saving magnesium in its engine block, increases efficiency by varying valve lift instead of merely using a throttle plate, and comes standard with pricey run-flat tires.
Time's up. The answer? BMW's least expensive U.S. car, the $30,995 325i.
That's just the start of a long list of standard equipment on the '06 325i. Also included are a six-speed manual transmission (previously five-speed only), an impressive 10-speaker stereo including two subwoofers, dual automatic climate controls, front and rear curtain airbags, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic headlights. The only obvious omission is a folding rear seat?that's still a $475 option.
Overall, we like the 3's new styling, with three sharp pleats ironed onto its profile. Although its size has grown 2.2 inches in length and 3.0 inches in width, this tester weighed just 48 more pounds than the last 325i we tested (C/D, March 2004).
Horsepower is up to 215, 31 more than in the previous model, and torque has been kicked up by 10 to 185 pound-feet, largely because of a half-liter displacement increase to 3.0 (now the same as the 330i). Furthermore, this horsepower number is just 10 less than in the previous 330i, but 40 fewer than in the latest version, due to a single-stage (versus three stage) induction system.
The 325i has shorter gearing than both the 330i and the previous 325i, but sixth gear is taller than the previous fifth gear. Too bad the shift throws aren't shorter. They're a bit rubbery as well. We wish the short shifter from the 2003-05 330i with Performance package were an option.
The added power and more aggressive gearing give straight-line performance a swift kick to 6.1 seconds from 0 to 60 mph and 14.7 seconds at 94 mph through the quarter-mile. This 325i blows away the last-generation car and is also quicker than the previous 330i model.
BMWs typically have long options lists, and this latest 325i, decked out with everything on that list, would cost a stunning $47,715. Forget that. Our test car came to us wearing just the Sport package ($1600) and Sirius satellite radio ($595) for $33,190, and with the many standard features, we didn't feel gypped. This car also had the no-cost aluminum interior-trim option, which in fact we prefer over the two wood choices.
The Sport package consists of a stiffer suspension, 17-inch wheels and tires (versus standard 16s) with stickier Pirelli rubber (225/45 front and 255/40 rear), extremely grippy front sport seats with thigh and bolster adjustments, and a fatter steering wheel. Lumbar adjustment is not included, but we found the manual seats extremely supportive and prefer them to those in the current M3. The Sport package thankfully doesn't include the active-steering system that automatically adjusts the steering ratio based on vehicle speed (as it does on 5- and 6-series models), because we prefer the feel of the standard steering.
At 0.87 g, skidpad grip was between that of the latest two 325i's we've tested (C/D, January 2001 and March 2004). Because of increased contact patches and improved ABS, the '06 car's braking distance, at 161 feet, is 11 feet better than the March 2004 tester's.
The universally praised 3-series ride-and-handling balance is still intact. That's a relief, considering BMW had to work around the stiffness of the run-flat tires. However, this latest setup feels a little stiffer than the outgoing model's, and when successive road irregularities of a large variety are encountered, the ride can get harsh. At the limit, there is more understeer than we recall in the last car, but there is still some characteristic BMW neutrality, achieved in part by a weight distribution of 49.9 front and 50.1 rear.
Despite the size, weight, horsepower, and displacement increases, city fuel economy is unchanged at 20 mpg and highway actually improved 1 mpg to 30. On a 300-mile highway slog, we averaged an impressive 31 mpg with the cruise set between 70 and 80 mph. Overall, we got 25 mpg.
But more important, the new 3 got its crown back in our October "$35,000 Sports Sedans" comparo after being unseated by the Infiniti G35 last year.
Vehicle type: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
Price as tested: $33,190 (base price: $30,995)
Engine type: DOHC 24-valve inline-6, magnesium-and-aluminum block and aluminum head, port fuel injection
Displacement: 183 cu in, 2996cc
Power (SAE net): 215 bhp @ 6250 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 185 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Wheelbase: 108.7 in
Length/width/height: 178.2/71.5/55.9 in
Curb weight: 3348 lb
Zero to 60 mph: 6.1 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 16.8 sec
Zero to 130 mph: 33.2 sec
Street start, 5-60 mph: 6.8 sec
Standing 1/4-mile: 14.7 sec @ 94 mph
Top speed (governor limited): 147 mph
Braking, 70-0 mph: 161 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.87 g
EPA fuel economy, city driving: 20 mpg
C/D-observed fuel economy: 25 mpg
I thought, since we had pictures already--god looking out man--the black is a great choice.
I'd take the BMW 3
But oddly enough, I bought an A4.
Quote from: ro51092 on November 05, 2006, 10:18:26 PM
I'd take the BMW 3
But oddly enough, I bought an A4.
You really can't go wrong with either. I never got to drive the B6 A4 because I was crippled at the time but like I said before, my dad was favoring the A4 and he completely changed his mind after driving the 3 so I trusted him and the mags as far as drive is concerned.
Wow... seeing my car that clean... I need to wash it inside and out tomorrow. It's very tough to keep a car clean when you travel a lot and live such an active lifestyle.
At my place I have a heated indoor garage with a wash stall, pretty easy to wash the car down even in the winter time :)
That's a beautiful car. Can't wait to get one of my own.
Just out of curiosity, why was this thread 27 pages long?
He changed his mind alot. And it's 12 years old.
Quote from: Danish on November 07, 2006, 05:58:36 PM
Just out of curiosity, why was this thread 27 pages long?
23 of the pages are just Farris talking to himself.
Quote from: mazda6er on November 07, 2006, 06:06:58 PM
23 of the pages are just Farris talking to himself.
At least its not 1448 pages of trash like the ARBT. :rolleyes: :lol: :lol:
Excellent choice. I drove a loaned 325i just like yours last Saturday at the track for a couple of exercises and it handles really really well. Very nimble machine.
Quote from: Submariner on November 07, 2006, 06:14:44 PM
At least its not 1448 pages of trash like the ARBT. :rolleyes: :lol: :lol:
That's good stuff :lol:
Quote from: mazda6er on November 07, 2006, 06:06:58 PM
23 of the pages are just Farris talking to himself.
:lol:
I cleaned it BTW. It was reeaaaally dirty on the inside (mainly the floor).
But I keep realizing it'll never be as clean as it was when it was new. The disadvantage of black/black.
Looking at the top post on this page, it's hard to believe I'm already close to 14K.
happy driving. i read through this whole thread yesterday because i was bored. it was like watching a movie you know the ending to.
How is the clutch thing? Getting smoother or no
Quote from: Champ on November 08, 2006, 10:07:38 AM
How is the clutch thing?? Getting smoother or no
Either its worn down or I've gotten used to it.