Need Help Quick

[vision0077]

I am about to buy my first BMW; however, i am not sure which one to get and I am afraid a wrong decision will be costly to say the least. My options are: 2000 323ci or 2000 528i.
Please advise... and if you know whether one is more costly than the other when it comes to maintenance i would greatly appreicate your input. I was reading some reviews and saw the regular maintenance on a 528i is about $800... is that true?
thank you,

 

[Big Daddy]

I do not think the maintenance is any more for the 5 than the 3 series, and $800.00 per year on average may be in the ball park. Choosing between the 323 and the 528 I would buy the 5. Just a matter of choice.

 

[vision0077]

I test drove yesterday a 2000 323ci w/ Tiptronic transmission. The car drives fabulous and realize it is a sports car! However, the only reason why i am considering a 528 is the convenience of the 4-dr. Why would you recommend one over the other. In your experience, is the 528 better?
thanks..

 

[Big Daddy]

I would like the 528 because of the fact that it is a four door and a larger vehicle, of course I own a roadster as my sports and fun car so it is logical for me to go with the 5. Both are great cars just decide, 2 or 4 doors, larger or smaller motor? Consider that the 323 will feel and handle more sporty than the 528 because fo the fact it is smaller and lighter. Either is a winner!

 

[Abdoman]

If you need the room, then the 528 is the way to go, but I didn't have very good luck with my 5. The two 3 series I had were much more reliable. And less costly as the parts seemed to be cheaper.

I do agree with Big Daddy, as both are great cars.

 

[codex57]

Personally I like the 5 series. I just couldn't afford it. I think the 5 has the perfect balance btw comfort and sport.

 

[vision0077]

Advise Please

Ok... so i was thinking of a 323ci and i'm now on the verge of buying a 1999 540i
The car feels good but need your advise on the following.
1. how expensive is it to replace a rear cup holder (its broken)
2. how easy is it to clean the center console (owner spilled soda and buttons are sticky)
3. IMPORTANT - The car Vibrates when i drove it; mostly when i step on the brakes. Owner claims that he rescently put Off-The-Market front breaks/rottors and that is the reason why the car feels that way.

Now, the owner agreed, & we are taking in the car into a BMW dealer to have a "pre-purchase inspectation" (hard to find a dealer that does one). So i feel confident that He is confident on his car, and any major things will surface to the light then. I told him... if car passes I Buy, if it has majoy deffects... we might negotiate but might not buy... he said Fine! So we are splitting the cost!

Please advise.. i'm a bit nervous on the Maintenance Cost Too... is it really expensive.. the gas..well i drive a Camaro v8 5.0 right now and have managed so a V8 4.4 should be the same.. and hope to even get better milage since i now get 20/g

THANK YOU!!!