new vs. old

[mizz bovary]

so, if you had the choice between buying a brand new 3 series or a used 530i, which would you choose? some info on the 530i - 70,000 miles, sports package, 2001... please validate your answers. thanks.

[LOS]

It all depends on what you're looking for. 3 series are more agile, lighter... 5 series are more on the luxurious side plus a little heavier and you have more room inside...
You did not specified what type of 3 series.. 330!??
The 530i sure has a lot of miles for an '01 (70k), Is this going to be your first beamer? Is money an issue?

LOS

[Torque]

3 series.

[mizz bovary]

well, the price for what I am looking for both about the same... i am worried about not having a warranty. i hate going to the shop and getting my car looked at... hate it, hate it... (probably like most girls!). i am looking for a commuting care (about 60 miles a day on the highway), that is reliable andfuel efficient. i live in the northeast and thus, the care should be good in snow and sleet.

[sp0rky]

You mentioned the word snow.

without thinking any further... 325xi or 330 xi would be the only way to go, since those are AWD.

60 mi / day is about 21k / yr... with that kind of mileage, you'd have the 5 series up and over 100k in a year and a half or so and it would start to cost a lot to maintain.

with that kind of miles driven daily and snow, 3 series with awd....

hope this was of some help to you.. enjoy your purchase

[BeelZibub]

Don't mean to be funny, and I hate to say this but , if you're after a fuel efficient car you are looking in the wrong place lady, how could anyone possibly consider a 3ltr engine FUEL EFFICIENT???? if you want the mpg go for a 1.6l diesel Jap or euro car.

Also I consider buying a BMW like one man once told me -

If you want looks, sportyness and handling buy a 3 series

You can have immense luxury and refinement by buying a 7 series

Or if you want everything buy a 5 series!

I've driven both the 3 and 5 and consider the 5 handles just as well as the 3 but has a lot more luxury.

Why do BMW even bother with the 3 & 7???

[LOS]

Interesting comments about the 3, 5 and 7 series Beelzibub!

Miss Borary, Go for the new car (3 series). Full maintenanace is provided by BMW for 4 years... Don't have to worry about anything...

LOS

[Mr White G]

If the cash isn't a big factor then get a new 3 series.

[///M Power]

3 series

like spork said, go for the xi version.

[sp0rky]

BeelZibub, BMW makes the 3 and 7 because they are specialized. Not everybody wants the 5, some want one smaller, some want one bigger.. .and some.. sadly enough want more or less of a 'status' symbol. I know many people who would only buy a 3 because they think it is less of a 'status' thing.

Not to mention the price differences and competition with other auto makers!

[BeelZibub]

SpOrky

I do realise in a modern market, motor vehicle manufactures need to offer the buyers a complete range of products quintecentially designed to appeal to all members of the car buying spectrum and therefore BMW's range include cars to which may be beyond the bounds of my recuirements or tastes.
However, as an English Gentleman I see nothing wrong with embarking on the purchase of a "Status Symbol" which will seperate me from my lower elk and ford driving cousins.

FIVES RULE

[Gulelin]

I LOVE my 330xi. That is all!

[ashtangaz]

530

[CBA]

530 the 5 is so much better lookin..