Buying a car this week

[Garfield]

I currently drive an Acura RSX Type-S, and I absolutely love the slick 6-speed manual, 200hp, agility, responsive steering, etc. I moved to Vancouver, BC and with the heavy traffic, I need an automatic. I am trying to decide between the BMW 325i and the 330i. The difference in total cost (depreciation over three years) between the two vehicles is only $2000 USD. I will be spending much of the next several months in California, where the difference in horsepower will be important, but I will move back here (Vancouver) permanently after that, and with traffic, i'm not looking at much of a difference. What would you do, and why? Is there anything that I should know about or keep a lookout for? I have decided to go with the 2004, as there may be issues with the new 2005 when it comes out.

[Garfield]

Also, is it true that you cannot get a deal on a BMW and will have to pay MSRP for a new one? I negotiated the price of my Acura down to Invoice (at cost), what can I expect for this car? It will be purchased in British Columbia, if that matters. MSRP is approximately $45,000 for a 325i with Black Metallic Paint, Executive Package (black leather, sunroof, wood trim, etc). Tax is nearly 15% for GST and PST combined in BC, so i'm thinking that I will end up paying $50,000 CAD. How low should I be able to negotiate it, if at all? Thanks.

[tekrider]

i've driven both an auto 325i and a 330i and i can't tell much difference in power and acceleration. it all depends how much you're willing to spend.

i just love my 2002 325i, i just wish it had better gas mileage given how much gas costs these days. it's pretty rare to pay invoice on a BMW. dealers will knock off a few hundred maybe, but for the most part 3 series are top sellers for dealers and they are unlikely to budge. on the other hand, used certified cars are a different story...

[Roadhawk]

I would keep your Acura...it seems like a very nice car (I know that handle like a go-cart!) - you don't say that you need more room or anything...learn to live with a stick in traffic....I know Vancouver can't be any worse then DC...you'll manage...believe me - i think you'll miss the stick and wish you had it back....

[iantosca]

I'd go against black leather ... I dunno if you said vancouver or california ... but I live in Jersey and when I step in my car I break a sweat and then ass is on fire.

[Silver4evr]

If you check the dealer's website in your area and check their inventory, you can usually contact their Internet Sales dept and work a better deal than MSRP. At least in So. Californian, where I bought my ride.

I test drove a 2004 330i before purchasing my 530i and would have bought the 330 if I didn't need the larger cabin. As a previous 320is owner, imo, the 330 is the way to go if it fits your needs. It's quicker than the 325i and, if you get the sports package, it will stick like crazy glue to the road.

Good luck.

[GnnSk8]

eeeeah automatic? well i have driven a 330i autpmatic and it s agreat car but.. well no but. It still has surpriseing acceleration go for the 330i. IMO

[Garfield]

What about the MINI Cooper? Not the MCS, but the regular Cooper? Apparently, it has over a 20% higher resale value, and it's a BMW... heh. In four years, a MINI Cooper will be worth $14,000, and I can buy one today for $28,000. However, in four years, a BMW 325i will be worth $18900, and I can buy one today for $40,000. That's a $14,000 depreciation vs a $21100 depreciation.

[Hattori Hanzo]

Hi. I am buying a 330cic this weekend in SO CAL. You might find this spreadsheet useful.

http://www.carbuyingtips.com/offer.xls

[Garfield]

After driving a 6-speed that handles so beautifully, I couldn't bring myself to buy a 5spd large vehicle. I just purchased a MINI Cooper S.

[Roadhawk]

Well Garfield - congrats! Seems like a fun little vehical...another go-cart!

[Garfield]

Thanks, I'm happy with my decision. The steering is incredible, the handling is superb, the tranny is much more stable/solid than that of the Acura RSX-S, I love the BMW alarm-on-the-key thing, the ride is much more comfortable, etc etc. This car cost me less than my Acura did when it was new (32,700 CAD vs $31500 CAD), so I would highly recommend it in comparison.

[///M Power]

watch out. when the e90 comes out ur 3er resale might dip!

[Garfield]

Originally posted by ///M Power@May 29 2004, 02:17 PM
watch out. when the e90 comes out ur 3er resale might dip!

e90?