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BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

30156 messages, Last post on Nov 17, 2009 at 5:41 AM
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Thanks Markjenn for your informative post. I did check out A4 and will be testing the New C240. A4: On the whole though the A4 is a better value, they don't offer ED and the brand name is definetly not as good as the BMW. For only - $2k more you get the "real" thing BMW - rather than get some "also rans" and "wanna be s". C240: The Merc is probably a better brand name than BMW.... But caters to slightly older crowd (I'm 24). It places a clear emphasis on luxury than sport. But I'm in the market for a sporty car that is also kina luxurious (read BMW). If you wanted real luxury you shouldn't be looking at this segment at all - rather at Jaguar or Merc S class or even BMW 7. Therefore that rules out Merc C240. IS300: The IS300 was decent competitor - but it "tries" SO HARD to be a BMW - so why not get the BMW itself - if it is supposedly what every car in this segment wants to be (except Merc.). 3.2 TL: I had almost paid the deposit for the Acura TL.. but then I knew I was getting it only for the value and then things happend and I decided not to go for something and regret later that I could have gotten the "real" thing. Ok about the 330i: It would be cool to have the extra 40hp oomph... but then that may get more tickets (already have 9pts) and eventually ruin the whole experience incl. possibly my life. Therefore that rules out the 330i under sad circumstances. and yeah I could use the extra $4k for my European trip. Thanks for your help on that. |
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So much for decisions. Your response on Leather/Leathertte has left me undecided even more. Can anybody clearly list advantages and disadvantes (with may be a weightage for each and possibly quantify).. I'll try in my next post and mebe others can jump in? 1. Touch/Feel/Luxury/Look (Weightage points - 40%) 2. Maintenance (Weightage points - 25%) 3. Durabilty (Weightage points - 25%) 4. Price (Weightage points - 10%) Based on my above quantified weights: 1. T: Leatherette = 15; Leather = 30 2. M: Leatherette = 20; Leather = 10 3. D: Leatherette = 20; Leather = 10 4. P: Leatherette = 10; Leather = 3 Total: Leatherette= 65; Leather= 53 That would mean Leatherette wins. But how would you all quantify this. Feel free to jump in. Specify your weightages and assigned points. Thanks again everyone for the repsonses. |
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Another question: How easy is it to install an aftermarket CD changer? The salesman was talking about some "having to tune" and other possible problems. What price are these compatible and easy to install "aftermarket CD changer" available and where? IS it true that installing an aftermarket CD-changer would NULL the BMW warranty on the entire electrical system? If so, wouldn't that be unfair "trade practice"? Does the BMW center installed CD-changer come with the same 4year warranty? |
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Hi reubencahn: What is the Sunroof switch problem you are referrign to? DO the dealers fix it under warranty? Any more such problems with the 3series? |
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If the CD player is ordered and installed before you pick up the car, the warranty is 4 years. After you dirve off the lot-------? |
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I live in S.E. PA also (Allentown/Reading) area and have found that by going slightly north, prices are much more negotiable. I have a few faxes from a dealership in Williamsport who is willing to discount between $1,300 and $1,880 on new 330i/330Ci's. These were sent to me in response to one email and represent no negotiating on my part, so I assume they would come down a little more to save a sale. If you want more information or a copy of the faxes, send me email (kominsky |
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| I'll be picking up a 325i, manual, in december, the dealer says the first service/oil change is at 13,000+ miles. Seriously, how often should the oil be changed if one hopes to keep the car for a while. | |
| I live in Florida which doesn't require a front license plate, how does the car arrive from the manufacturer? I've only seen one or two cars without the black plastic plate holder, they just had a straight narrow strip instead - is this an aftermarket item? | |
| You will have to ask the dealer to get you that part. I suggest that you talk to him in advance, so he will have it in your car's color... I got mine as a no-cost option because I simply asked for it - at least, that was the case when I leased my Bimmer form Braman in Miami. | |
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Hello, I am a new user to this format of discussion. I am considering the purchase of an automobile in the 40-55k range and have considered several vehicles including Acura 3.2TL, Audi S4, Audi A6 2.7T, BMW 330i/ci, BMW M3, Lexus GS430, Mercedes E320, Mercedes C320 Sport, and Mercedes CLK430. Overall, I have been very impressed with the BMW offerings and therefore have narrowed the list to the 330i/ci or M3. The BMW's have a smooth, communicative, "an extension of oneself" feeling to them which I did not find in the others. For those of you who own a BMW, I am interested to know your opinions of their long-term durability, reliability and maintenance costs. I drove a '88 M6 many years ago but finally sold it due to escalating maintenance costs and my frustration at having minor things break or fail every 1000-3000 miles. I also would appreciate your input/recommendations on the vehicles I have mentioned or any others which I should consider. Thanks. |
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