Newbie Imminent 3 Series Buy - A Few Questions!

[the_player]

Just wondering if anyone can give me a bit of advice on which configuration of 3 series I should be purchasing!

I'm torn between the 330Ci and the 325Ci, basically I want the 330Ci but will have to compromise on an older car with around 50-70K (5 years old) as opposed to a newer 325Ci with less mileage? Would it be a sound move getting the 330Ci considering that by the time I sell it in a couple of years it is likely to have 100K+ on it with the mileage I do? Also any idea of the mpg ont he two models ?

Also regardless of which model I get can anyone give me any pointers on the following:

- Should I get the manual or Auto? Apparently (correct me if I'm wrong) the auto is easier to re-sell etc but I hat the idea of having an auto! Is the step-tronic really that good?

- Whats the average servicing costs/Running costs ?

- Can Sat-Nav be retro fitted?

- Anything else to bear in mind when purchasing one of these?

Thanks in advance for any advice!


Ben. (Warrington - UK)

[PMB]

No idea on the sat nav.

Fuel economy is about 1mpg better on the 325 vs 330.

I have a manual. I drove the auto with steptronic anddid not like it. If you are accelerating hard and shift up early, if the car thinks it is too early and it can do better it will override you. Never tried the paddles though.

Servicing costs are astronomical. Find a good non BMW garage to take it to if it is no longer under warranty. Mind you, living in Warrington you are just near Euro Car Parts who sell most BMW OEM parts for about half BMW retail price.

High mileage is not too much of a concern, but look around. With the new 3 series just released prices will drop and expect many E46s on the market over the next few months.