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BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

30250 messages,  Last post on Mar 24, 2013 at 11:51 AM

You are in the BMW 3-Series Forum.

What is this discussion about? BMW 3 Series, Sedan

Messages Page 2177 of 3026

#21756 of 30250 Various by 1pierce

Feb 01, 2003 (9:56 am)

Brave: I thought I had a stiff neck for a day or two - but that may just be from my normal level of stress!!! Three kids, a high maintenance wife, and a high stress job will do that to you.
 
kdshapiro: I agree that you can't upgrade the base stereo aftermarket for anywhere near $650. So, in that respect, the HK is not a rip-off. Its probably equal to the Infinity system in my Caravan. That said, once you've listened to the premium stereo in a Lexus, which I did at the local autoshow last year, you realize that not all premium audio systems are created equal.
 
climate control: The 2000 BMW must be a 323i - I don't think they changed to the 325 until 2001. That means it has different engine specs than a new 325i. Despite that fact, even if it has 40K on it, if it is decently equipped, it is clearly the best car on your list - and it comes with a CPO warranty. I had a '99 Maxima, and it did not have one mechanical problem in 42,000 miles - those are VERY reliable and somewhat sporty cars. The CL looks like the best deal, since its fairly new, has very good performance and equipment, is a coupe (which I love), and has Honda reliability.
 
Still, if it were me, I'd use the mileage and the fact that GM, Ford, and Chrysler have killed the used car market to negotiate the price on the 323 down a little and buy that. Until you own a 3-series, you can't imagine how superior they are to drive compared to all the cars on your list.

#21757 of 30250 Some thoughts by 1pierce

Feb 01, 2003 (10:09 am)

I've had my 325i for about 6 months, now, and I don't regret the purchase at all. I'm convinced that it is the best $35,000 car in the world - and it feels like it every time I drive it. I've driven into a couple of "Oh-sh*t" turns since I got it, and it came right out (as opposed to going into the ditch). I'm amazed at how this car can compensate for driver error. It appears that, at present, my courage, or risk-quotient, can't overdrive this cars ability to stay on the road - which is a good thing.
 
All of that said - every time I look at a G35 Coupe or a Cadillac CTS (from the outside - I hate the inside of both), I just can't take my eyes off them. I know its a matter of taste, but I think those cars, each in their own way, are stunningly beautiful. Sorry, but I can't say the same thing about the new 5-series, 7-series and Z4 coming out of BMW. And, have you seen that X3? What's up with that? This could be a bad omen of things to come.

#21758 of 30250 Pierce by tomwannabmw

Feb 01, 2003 (10:49 am)

Except for the trunk lid, I think the new 7 is a beauty. The Z4, while perhaps too edgy for many, is the real stunner in my opinion. The G35 coupe and sedan, 350Z, Altima, and soon to be new Maxima are all variations on a very similiar theme. Homogeny across the entire line. The Z4 on the other hand is unique and I, for one, think it is the more significant design than the much more ballyhoed 350Z. Even though this site declares the 350Z as this years most significant new car. JMO, of course, BUT I would never regret buying a 3er over the infiniti or caddy. You won't regret it either when you sell your current 3 in a few years.

#21759 of 30250 1pierce by leenelsonmd

Feb 01, 2003 (11:35 am)

I find myself lusting after fellow 3 series. Never even a double take on the G35. The new 350Z car is a little interesting.
 
I like the trunk on the 7 series.
 
The Z4 doesn't visually stir me, but after driving one I was totally amazed. Unbelievable car. BMW again redefines the roadster.

#21760 of 30250 help needed! by djocks

Feb 01, 2003 (3:01 pm)

I think the future of BMW is interesting to say the least. I am leasing my 330i and the possibility of buying it down the road is real if I do not like what they have.
 
Looking for a little help people.
 
I am looking for people's experiences with recent BMW's in the snow. I am picking up my 330i with snow tires on her on Wednesday here in Connecticut.
 
Can anyone please provide what they have experienced both positive and negative as well as some helpful tips....
 
Thanks, djocks

#21761 of 30250 djocks by kdshapiro

Feb 01, 2003 (3:32 pm)

If you have to ask you already know the answer.
 
FWD/AWD without snows will be much better than any RWD sedan without snows. Put snows on on the RWD sedan and you have a fighting chance. I'm limping along this winter with the standard tires on mine. So far I've done okay, but the large amount of sand, gravel and salt has helped.

#21762 of 30250 I Need Tires by max63

Feb 01, 2003 (3:58 pm)

Hey guys, hope someone can help me out. I need new tires on my 2002 330i. I have 16 months left on my lease and I need my tires to be in good tred shape after this period. I have conti 225/45 ZR 17 Fronts and 245/40 ZR 17 in the rear, both with very little tred after 26,000 miles. I live in cali so rain tires are not an issue. Any recommendation on tires that will last and what should I expect to pay? Thanks!

#21763 of 30250 After market options? by gobucs

Feb 01, 2003 (4:43 pm)

I have a 330i and I am thinking of adding the Homelink garage door opener, and the alarm. My car did not have either when I purchased. Is it best to go back to BMW and have them install these options or can I go somewhere else?

#21764 of 30250 gobucs by div2

Feb 01, 2003 (9:41 pm)

Both the alarm and the UGDO are simple DIY installs. Check out:
http://www.circlebmw.com/service/access/01219416538.htm and http://www.circlebmw.com/service/access/1470458.htm
With a BMW CCA discount the cost should be about $220 for the E46 alarm and $135 for the UGDO. Do the work yourself; you'll learn about your car and save money at the same time.

#21765 of 30250 Orient Blue by rjoe92057

Feb 02, 2003 (12:39 am)

Anyone with Orient Blue color?
Does it get dirty easy?
Is it easy to maintain?

Messages Page 2177 of 3026

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