Bmw 3 Series

[9812713]

Hello,

I'm new to the luxury class of cars. I have done a little research on my own and well I have always liked BMW (tho I enjoyed test driving a 98 Saab). At the moment I need to buy a new car, and considering buying a BMW but cost is a object. ..

I have seen alot of ads in the Auto Trader (car buyer mag) for 318 Series. What is the difference in 318i, 318iS etc. If I had all the money in the world I think i would buy a M3, but all i can afford lower end on the scale.

I have also seen a few ads for 320i but only a few.

I know that the 318 Series is a 4 cyl. (1.8L) engine, while the 320 (2.0L), 325 (2.5L), etc,

Should I hold out in buying a car, or .. What do you guys things. Please, I need your help..

Thank you.

[rsn48]

Hard to tell you what to do, not knowing your budget. The 318i is a great car to drive but it doesn't have a lot of pep. If you do get one, get a standard if power is important to you. A 320 will have a bit more jam to it, the same can be said for the 325. I can promise you owning a BMW is more than just owning a car; I'd go for the Bimmer over the Saab. There is also the "Wow" factor, the Bimmer has it; the Saab does not.

My son has a 318i and loves it. There's lots you can do to a 381i(s).

[mrkbik]

I am assuming that you value power over comfort if you want the M3. I would suggest buying a 325 if you want power. As money comes along later on, you have a lot of modding options that will make that 325 pretty close to a stock E36 M3. The 318 would be fun to drive because of the handling it provides, but if your looking for both handling and "oomph", go for the 325.

[9812713]

Yes, I'm kinda looking for some "ooomph!" but also wanna keep within a reasonal budget.

Most 325i in my area Ontario Canada - Ottawa Area is hard to find a nice BMW that meet my standards (Color don't matter - 5 spd, etc) most in my area are above 10,000 not to mention almost 90% are auto .. I hate auto, no control over your car.

I just brought up the 318i, because I notice almost all ads posted are for the 318i, so i assumed that they were a "budget" bimmer.

I think I might look in the GTA (Toronto Area) but again the same problem arises, most BMW owners Sell their car for about 2-3 grand over KBB value ;(

Either case I value everyones opinion, and if anyone knows of someone selling their 325i... in ottawa, or GTA in good condition.. hehe

TY