First BMW- what to get

[slush3112000]

First of all , brand new to the boards. I hope to be here for a while!!

Some of you you with a little more BMW experience please help me out. I am getting my first BMW around July of 07. I am torn between buying a 01-04 M3, or leasing a '07 335i.

The 04 M3 is on of my dream cars, however I feel that leasing the new 335i, might be a little more practical. Plus the 335i is a bad bitch with pretty good rates on lease?

ANy thoughts?

Again, its great to meet everyone!

 

[selavia]

First of, Welcome to the Board!
I'd say test drive both and then weigh the pros and cons. Ask whether you're going for practicality or for your dream? What fits better into your life right now? Young, single, etc (leans toward M3) Or spouse, two kids, (leans toward 335). Either way, I doubt you're going to go wrong.

Good luck!
Sean

 

[Abdoman]

I would go for the 335 - not much difference in performance and quite a bit cheaper.

 

[Average Jae]

hey Erik, welcome aboard!!

if you are going to be picking up the bimmer in july of next year, your perception may change quite a bit in the mean time.

the 335i is a hoot to drive. (i recently took a steptro out for a test drive.. too bad they didn't have a manual..) the car is NICE!! it really could be compared to the e46 m3.

given the choice tho, i love the looks of the e46 m3, so i'd be hardpressed to choose the 335i. but if you consider the practical side, 335 does make a lot of sense.

btw, that seat belt thing looks like it could snap in half within the first year of use..

 

[tazza0712]

Welcome aboard!

My opinion, go for the 335!! I just think the styling of that car is awesome, and matched with THAT engine!? Perfect match. Test drive both if you haven't and decide which one you could live with on a daily basis... not that living with either would be a chore!

 

[slush3112000]

Thanks for the input fellas!!

I think I am sold on the 335 especially since the wifey will be driving it more on a daily basis. I drive a company car for work, the 335 wll be more practical for her during the week , then on the weekends I can take it out and give it hell!!

I test drove a Black 335 I yesterday and it is TIGHT!!

I heard oil changes on bimmers are 200$ a pop.... Is this true??

 

[codex57]

Well, ocnsidering maintenance is free during your warranty period, it's not too much of a worry.

If you do oil changes in btw, just do them at an independent or do it yourself (with an oil extractor, it's easy). It's just an oil change. Dealer doesn't have to do it.

 

[slush3112000]

Ive always done my own oil changes, one of my friends a few years ago said something about oil changes having to be done by a certified BMW dealer, technician , etc.

I never thought that made any sense.

Either way, Im really excited to get my hands on one. I fell in love with them when I drove an M3 a few years ago. Unbelievable machine.