325 ci or a M3??
- Thread starter joeywonbo
- Start date
That question totally depends on what you need/want out of a car and your personal finances.
If you are looking for something very fast and extremely sporty, then a used M3 is perfect.
You have to consider the upkeep on an M3, and depending on the year and mileage the M3 might be out of factory warranty. Even if the car is certified pre-owned, you will be responsible for the regualr maintenance...brakes, rotors, oil changes, etc... The new 2004 will come with 4 years/50,000 warranty and FREE maintenance. If you are considering a 325 vs. an M3...why not consider a 2004, or maybe even 2003 330ci???
Good Luck!!
When I got my 04 330cic, I chose it over a 2004 M3 coupe (silver with Red leather). The 330 was more comfortable, more practical, less to insure and I like the Steptronic a lot more than the SMG, and the 6 speed manual. I am so glad I did not get the M3!!!
If you are looking for something very fast and extremely sporty, then a used M3 is perfect.
You have to consider the upkeep on an M3, and depending on the year and mileage the M3 might be out of factory warranty. Even if the car is certified pre-owned, you will be responsible for the regualr maintenance...brakes, rotors, oil changes, etc... The new 2004 will come with 4 years/50,000 warranty and FREE maintenance. If you are considering a 325 vs. an M3...why not consider a 2004, or maybe even 2003 330ci???
Good Luck!!
When I got my 04 330cic, I chose it over a 2004 M3 coupe (silver with Red leather). The 330 was more comfortable, more practical, less to insure and I like the Steptronic a lot more than the SMG, and the 6 speed manual. I am so glad I did not get the M3!!!
Funny that this post should come up now. I have test driven an 03 M3 SMG cabrio with only 4K miles that is priced at $57K (seems high, right) at my local dealer. The initial start in first gear is kind of abrupt and you really feel the first to second shift (even on the lower settings), but one of the salesguys said he can drive it and you don't even feel the shifts; I'm sure that with practice it can get smoother. Above 2nd, the shifts are pretty smooth. Downshifting is really smooth, with the blipping or whatever they call it to match the engine speed. The ride doesn't seem that much harsher than the regular 3. I also saw an 02 M3 SMG at Luxury Motors with 17K miles advertised for $52K. Since I don't plan on tracking any car I buy, opportunities for fast driving around here are relatively scarce and shifting (even with SMG) doesn't totally thrill me, I'm leaning towards a new 330 for better acceleration and maybe slightly better handling for my 00 323. I may see if there's a ZHP around in a color other than red. One other question: what suspension changes (like anti-roll bar diameter) does the Sports Package add? This is only because it looks like the new body style 4 series won't be out until summer/fall 06; if it was 05, I'd wait. So, what's a good price for a $49K list car these days?? Also, if anyone around Chicago is interested in a certified 00 323 convertible, let me know; it's a great car for someone who wants a BMW convertible.
no brainer
if you can afford the M, get it.. no disappointments at all with that decision. i've had a 325is, 328i, e36 M3 and now i've got an e46 M. i loved them all but the M cars just do it for me. my girl just got her new 325i this past week so i have the luxury of being able to drive either. i have the functionality/practicality of the sedan and for carrying people and our lab around, but all the fun of my M for all the other good stuff!!
if you can afford the M, get it.. no disappointments at all with that decision. i've had a 325is, 328i, e36 M3 and now i've got an e46 M. i loved them all but the M cars just do it for me. my girl just got her new 325i this past week so i have the luxury of being able to drive either. i have the functionality/practicality of the sedan and for carrying people and our lab around, but all the fun of my M for all the other good stuff!!