Ok, So I think my girlfriend and I are going to do either 3 or 4 cities during our 10 day stay in Europe when I hopefully take ED of a 325Ci in Mid-October. I'm thinking either Munich, Berlin, Amsterdam, & Brussels or just Munich, Berlin, & Amsterdam. Do you who have done ED or vacationed in Europe think this is feasable?
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Within the automotive community, there is an expectation that most BMWs can be had with a manual transmission. Depending upon market, there seems to be a certain percentage of folks who will NOT drive a BMW unless there is a third pedal. Assuming that demand continues (and I see no immediate reason why it should not), there will be folks (like Brave, myself and many others here) who will continue to specify our new cars with said manual transmission, and there will be at least as many folks (read, BMW enthusiasts who choose not to buy new cars (for whatever reason)) who will want to buy our cars when we are done with them.
Case in point, I have been to Park Avenue BMW to finish up my ED paperwork and deliver the proper monies two weekends in a row. In the used car lot, I saw a number of CPO 528is (plural) with 3 pedals; in addition, the only two 540is (plural) on the lot (including the one in the CPO showroom) were manual as well.
I know that when I lived in the Chicago area, I had a horrible time trying to buy a car with a manual transmission (even BMWs and Audis); maybe there is just too much resistance in your area. I remember a trip to the Audi dealership in Hinsdale (where I had bought two previous Audis, albeit, from a different salesman, who no longer worked there), and was told that they only sold cars equipped with an automatic, and that they would not even order me one with a 5-Speed! When I asked why, I was told, "You don't REALLY want a manual transmission, and so, if we order it for you, you will simply change your mind at the last minute, and stick us with the car."
With that type of idiocy, I simply walked off the lot, and found the dealership where my salesman then worked (Loeber Motors). Sheeesh!
As I do spend a great deal of time walking around the streets of New York, I always stop when I see certain cars to check 'em out. When I see a BMW or Audi, the first thing I check for is to see whether or not the car is a stick. I don't have the exact number, but there are numerous BMWs and Audis equipped with 5 speeds out there.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
It really comes down to how much time you want to spend driving your new toy vs. how much time you want spend to sampling the urban environs of your destinations. You could easily do all four cities in you allotted 10 days, however, that would not leave too much time in each. If I remember correctly, the Michelin web site http://www.michelin.com has a travel planner page for Europe (it seems to be down right now, so I cannot confirm this), where you could try out several itineraries and see how they fit with your styles of doing things.
As I have most likely determined the Sport Package does not fit my driving habits (25-30,000 miles per year) - thanks Shipo - what are the chances that I can find a 528 or 530 with the Premium Package and a manual - but without the Sport!!
As Shipo pointed out - I do not want to have to buy new sport tires every 20-25K miles! If they lasted 40,000 miles - maybe!
The 2000 528 PP, Sport Package, and manual with 17,000 miles on it is still sitting on the dealers lot. Perfect condition, and in Chicago it may be hard to sell. The tires look good, but I do not want to replace them in the first 12 months of my ownership!
Any others out there with heavy mileage experience with Sport Tires!!
With BMW, you can always order one to your exact needs. Depending on your driving style and driving condition, Z-rated tires can last upto 25k. Also, when the tires wear out, you can replace them with all-season as well.
My girlfriend would rather me turn my head and say "wow check out that car," stop and check it out than look at the various women roaming the streets of this great city!
As much as I love driving, I'd honestly rather spend more time "sampling the urban enviros." The michelin site as well as the shellgeostar site have helped me narrow down which places to go. I think we'll try and do 3 cities. Munich to Berlin, Berlin to Amterdam, & Amsterdam back to Munich. I know Amsterdam to Munich is a bit of a trek, so we may decide to drop the car off there and fly out of Amsterdam.
I was thinking of picking the car up when I get there (not sure if this is wise or not), doing some sort of bike trail, checking out a castle, doing the science museum and of course doing lots of eating and a little drinking.
I'm not sure what I'd like to do in Berlin or Amsterdam.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
dave is right...you could choose to replace the sports tires with all seasons when they wear out.
Another thing to bear in mind is that you will probably need winter tires in Chicago anyway, so your summer tires will ony have about 8 months of wear per year.
Sorry - guess I did not realize that! Assume I lose a little in handling/performance with the all seasons - but hey I'll be on the highway most of the time! And they most likely will run for 40-50K miles I would guess!
I plan on mounting all season tires on my 530i (PP, SP) when the OEM tires wear out. Both the 528i and 530i equipped with SP come with 235/45-17 tires, and Michelin makes the “Michelin Pilot Sport A/S” in that size for $216 (tirerack) and they come with a “YR” speed rating and a 400 Treadwear rating, which is the same rating as on my 328i. As a point of reference, the Michelin MXV4 Energy Plus tires that I am currently running currently have 38,000 miles on them, and even the rears have at least 5-10K left to go. Who knows, given that the OEM tires are most likely Continentals, and that many folks have not been too impressed with the Contis, the Pilot Sport A/S tires may even have better summer driving characteristics AND be All-Season tires as well.
Yes, competition is a good thing, and it certainly keeps the 3-series at the pinnacle of its class. I would LOVE to see a couple of key upgrades to the 3-series in the current e46 model: 1) 15-20 more hp (~200hp for 2.5L, 240-250 hp for 3.0L), and 2) a six-speed manual available -- perhaps the M3's, albeit with slightly different ratios to match the different engine characteristics.
Alan927: I am interested in hearing more about your all-season comparison (since you're one of the few on this Board who has done it). How much louder and less smooth were the SP tires? I am leaning toward getting the SP for the seats, cosmetics and sport suspension - but the tires have me nervous. I've never had a car with pure performance tires, but I know that they are noisier, ride rougher, and that they are not very good in the rain (we get alot of that where I live). Do you hydroplane easily? I might be able to live with the first two, but we get alot of heavy rain storms in Pittsburgh in the summer, and I drive highways to/from work.
G35: Studied it pretty close at the Pgh AutoShow last weekend. I have a Maxima, so I'm partial to Nissan products (they make the best "performing" Japanese cars). Nice looking car, with all the options, $34,000. Bigger than a 3-series, and outfitted with similar performance features (RWD, stability control, brake assist, 6-cyl, air bags galore...). Didn't drive one, but I know from experience that the 260 HP V6 will be much stronger than the 325's I6. I've driven a 325i, and while I love the engine, my Maxima has noticeably more low end torque, and it is the 1996 vintage 3.0 w/190 HP. To be honest, I don't like the 2.5 I6 better than the engine in my Maxima (I rate them a tie).
I wasn't swayed by the G35, especially for that price, but it was the only non-German car at the show that peaked my interest. To me the biggest things the 325 has over the G35 are a feeling of quality and solidity, and the obvious cache value (which can't be underestimated). Nice car, but, not for me. Also: the product literature shamelessly targets the 3-series, with many not so subtle comparisons, and a proclamation that 50-50 weight distribution is not the optimum for performance handling.
in increasing the hp for 330. It already has more hp than you need for American roads. I'm sure it'll be great for marketing purposes, but honestly, I could care less. Now if they shed couple hundred lbs., that would get me excited.
I've heard you say a couple of times that you're leasing for tax reasons (just read it again on the 5-series board). I'm curious as to what you think the tax advantages of leasing are? Did your CPA tell you that there's an "add-back" for leases that effectively limits your lease deduction to the depreciation that you could take if you owned your car outright. Depreciation on "listed property" (something that you could use for personal purposes, e.g., a car) is severly limited and based upon the "lease value" of the car (which is a function of its original market value).
Regardless of whether you buy or lease, your are also entitled to take all automobile related expenses, such as insurance, gas, and repairs and maintenance expenses (none, I know, under the BMW maintenance free program--although you did just put on new brakes, didn't you?) (alternatively you could use the standard mileage rate for these expenses).
All of these--your lease-payments-limited-by-the-add-back/depreciation and other related expenses--are, of course, limited to your percentage of business use, which must be supported by what is called "contemporaneous" (and detailed) records of where you went, who you saw/talked to, and what the business purpose of the trip was.
Don't worry, I won't tell the IRS, but I thought you should know.
Have you installed your arm-rest yet. I'm anxiously waiting to hear how it goes. I've read Circle's instructions numerous time and am still somewhat confused. (The pictures although, helpful, still leave something to be desired IMHO.) Mine (due in port today) will have the step and, as such, the gear-shift boot and cover-plate removal may be different. The business about removing the parking brake support is also difficult for me to follow. Perhaps everything will fall into place once the console is taken apart. But that's a scary thought, though, isn't it.
Please keep us posted (some pictures on your web-site of the actual installation would be very helpful).
I, too, noticed that Infiniti was touting the G35's 52/48 weight distribution as having "ideal balance under acceleration". Presumably, when accelerating, this changes to 50/50. Makes you wonder what the "ideal" balance under braking is...
"Now if they shed couple hundred lbs., that would get me excited."
A 3000lb. 330?! Yes! Where can I sign up.
Of this new crop of 'sport' sedans showing up with 240+ hp, none of them (to the best of my knowledge) will out accelerate a 330 by any significant margin. Drop a couple hundred pounds and the 330 will out accelerate them AND leave them even further behind when the road gets twisty!
Sadly, Nissan and Lexus just don't seem to get it. It is obvious that the G35 and the IS300 are marketed as 3-series substitutes - but that just dooms those cars to cheap imitation status. Like the Acuras, those cars can never win favor over the 3-series, because they are not competing on the same level.
My theory is that you cannot do apples to apples comparisons to a 3-series, because if you do, you will never buy a BMW. The other cars will always offer more on-paper value and features for the money. Throw in the fact that you can usually get a better deal on a Japanese car than a BMW, and the logic dictates that you don't buy the Bimmer. So,...why doesn't everybody buy the IS300 or the 3.2TL?
Because, BMW has hit upon a magic factor, something intangible that cannot be quantified on a spread sheet. Its the feel of the car, the look, the cache, the "German-ness", the perfect balance of sport and luxury. No other car has that intangible element. Top that off with the fact that a 325i is actually a good value when you consider the features and technology that you can get for around $32,000. This is especially true since BMW realized that Americans don't like 4-cylindar sports or luxury cars like Europeans do, and made the I6 standard.
Lexus and Infinity should concentrate on giving their cars their own identity, not trying to make a better 3-series. Audi has done this nicely with the A4, which appeals to 3-series drivers, but for different reasons than a 3-series does. I looked at the A4 at the recent Pgh Autoshow - no thank you for a variety of reasons. But, at least I looked at it. I walked right past the IS300 with nary a glance.
Has anyone had any experience with the accessory BMW navigation system? I'm going to college next year and my parents want me to have a navigation sytem. Should I get a BMW Accessory nav system or the Magellan 750 nav system? Our 2001 740iL and 2002 M3 Cic SMG both have nav and they work very well. My BMW is a 2001 325i. Thanks for your input. E-mail me at LGBAaron@aol.com
Time is what you make it. It really depends on what you are going to do? I normally travel with children in Europe (this last time was a minor exception). Art museums take a lot of time. Tour buses allow you to see a lot but see nothing. Once you figure out what you want to do, then determine where you want to go. When I traveled on the autobahn heading in the direction of Stuttgart-Karlruch(sp?)-Trier, I caught a road construction and traffic because I traveled in the afternoon. Four cites and 10 days are doable but consider the time spent driving. Munich to Amsterdam seems easier than Munich to Berlin. Plan a trip that your girlfriend like, I think that is all that counts. My travel is more Tasmanian Devil like, enjoy the monuments avoid the long lines at the museums unless the museums are free.
I couldn't say it any better. I'm new to this club, two years ago I was new to the Jeep club. A few years ago I was new to the Nissan club. People will buy what they buy and they like what they like. However, after reading the numerous postings in the G35 board and hearing what some say - it seems the G35 is either BMW-killer or almost as good. Now the Infiniti dealers will say they beat BMW at their own game, but I think that's a long way from being proven. BMW has a certain quality that bemoans the fact that 0-60 is more than numbers. But to each their own. There is a lot of room on this planet for people to drive what makes them happy.
Oh - and the laughter on the G35 thread about the 7 series I believe is jealously.
Has anyone read a single published full test result for a true production G35? I haven't. Everything I see are estimates, short drives of pre-production cars, or subjective test drive opinions that do NOT include any objective test data results. I can't wait to see what C&D, R&T, MT, AW, etc. have to say when they get to run their usual normal full tests and comparison tests on production G35s!
But I say don't assume it is great on the basis of manufacturer's press releases, pre-production tests, buzz or hype. We won't even know anything about real world ownership costs for the next 3-5 years. How much will a 2003 G35 be worth in 2006? How reliable will it be? Does anyone know for sure? (If so, please tell me what stocks to pick and who will win next couple Super Bowls and World Series.)
As it turns out, I drive my car well over 90% for business (some years over 95%). Due to the fact that my wife has a Mini-Van, it is just so much convenient to take it (as opposed to my BMW) with the kids and whoever else is tagging along. ;-) As such, we only claim 90% of the cost of the vehicle as a corporate expense (we don't want to be too greedy ;-)). I am no accountant, however, it is my understanding that since the tax rules changed back in 1986, the ability to depreciate a company car has been severely limited, however, (once again) it is my understanding that a corporation can write off a lease as a straight expense (less personal use of course) with no limits imposed. Yes/No?
So far, the accounting firm that audits our books has never said anything other than "lease your cars". As a result, since 1986, every car any of us as driven has been leased.
NycCarGuy,
Oh, that (sheepish grin). I thought that the bilge water JagBoy was spouting was at least from his own experiences of car ownership. NOT! When somebody (Dave330i?) informed me that JagBoy was in fact a 16-year-old boy, it all became clear, I was arguing against the infinite wisdom of an immortal teenager. ;-) End of argument.
With shipo getting a new car (and now a 530!) every three years, I have to admit that leasing is starting to intrigue me.
Does the corporation do the leasing. My unexpert understanding is that then it might all be deductible exept if a portion is done for personal use. In the other hand if it is a personal lease, I thought that commuting to and from work cannot be deducted.
It's been about 5 years since I did my analysis but below is my take on leasing:
If you drive the car more than 50% (I think) for business purposes, you can deduct either (i) actual expenses times the percentage of miles driven for business, less amounts reimbursed by the employer; or (ii) the standard mileage deduction, less amounts reimbursed.
Around 1995 for individuals, only up to approximately $16,000 of vehicle value, if purchased, could be depreciated (depreciation being included in actual expenses) per annum - no interest expense related to the purchase of the vehicle was deductible. With a lease, however, practically the entire lease payment (times the percentage driven for business) is deductible. You need to reduce the payment by an amount called the "inclusion", but this amount for me has been negligible. Since a lease payment consists of both interest (not deductible under owning) and depreciation of a vehicle greater than $16,000, leasing will usually give you a higher deduction for a higher-end vehicle.
For example, if you drive 60% for business and your employer reimburses you $0.32/mile, generally you can deduct 60% of all actual expenses (lease, gas, insurance, maintenance, etc.), less the $0.32/mile paid to you. You can lease the vehicle as an individual.
Leasing isn't for everyone and I do not purport to be a tax expert. Look up the instructions for form 2106 at www.irs.gov.
Sorry to start something here. I have read the pre-production reviews, and to me, the G35 is the closest near-3-series effort yet. On paper. So curiosity won out and a test drive soon followed. I felt other 3er owners might appreciate the perspective.
Bottom line: felt like a rear-drive Maxima, which is essentially what it is. Great engine, solid value, impressive performance. But little of the confidence-inspiring, intangible goodness that sets the 3-series apart from the rest.
I am thankful for cars like these; we the buyers benefit from the competition it breeds that somehow make near-perfect cars (like the 3-series) even better in the next iteration.
I wanted to like the G35 and do somewhat but have decided to buy the 325i instead. The G35 is impressive but the transmission is rough, the car feels too big compared to the BMW and the plastic center console is cheap feeling for $32,000+. Lastly my 18 year old daughter said I would be crazy to go for the Infiniti over the BMW. I agree that it is fundamentally too much like a Maxima but all in all a pretty good car although the TL is a better car imho.
Fortunately for me, if I happen to commute to MY office, I simply get up, go downstairs, get a glass of OJ, and walk up the other stairs to my office over the garage. ;-)
Unfortunately, it is rare these days that I get to work in my own office. :-( Essentially, if I drive my car, I am going to a client site, meeting a client at an off site location, driving to the airport for a business trip, or to fetch my business partner or a client. The only time that I drive the 328i for non-business stuff might be for running an errand or two on the weekend while my wife runs errands in her van.
In an effort to keep it as kosher as possible, I even drive my car home, park it, and drive the van over to the after school program to fetch my children, do the grocery shopping and fetch my wife from the train or bus from work. Given that scenario, it is easy to see why I can look an IRS agent in the eye, show him/her my documentation, and tell him/her that I only use my company car less than 7% of the time for non company business.
Have you installed your arm-rest yet. I'm anxiously waiting to hear how it goes
I installed the armrest a week ago. It didn't occur to me to take pictures. I wish you would have mentioned earlier.
Before I get into the details, here's a note for those who won't read to the end-the front of the arm rest is a great spot for a garage door opener! I stuck some adhesive backed velcro to the remote and the underside of the arm rest. The remote is well hidden and within easy reach. The down side is reduced usage of the back cup holder, but not much will fit there with the arm rest down anyway.
Now the details on installing the arm rest:
I followed Circle BMW's directions (thanks to whoever pointed them out) and, yes, they are a bit cryptic. The manual shifter boot comes off easily (not sure about the step). It's not necessary to completely remove the shift knob and plate.
The center console removes pretty easily. The screws are under the shift boot and the back ash tray. It took me a little while to pop out the cup holder and coin holder, but be patient and don't force anything.
The parking brake support screws are pretty clear when you hold the arm rest bracket in place. There are a couple hex bolts to remove. Replace them with two longer bolts which go through slots on the arm rest bracket with a couple of metal bushings to prevent cracking the plastic. You'll have to trim a little foam and carpet where the bracket goes. I nicked the bottom of the arm rest with my utility knife doing this (better than the seat for sure). I was surprised at how thick the foam was. No wonder why the interior is so quiet!
Putting everything back is pretty straight forward. Putting the new center console in was a bit tricky-I ended up pulling the parking brake up quit hard which helped. The plastic piece that covers the arm rest pivot hinge didn't seem to snap into place. It seemed to fit better after I replaced the back ashtray, though.
I think it took me less than 2 hours which I believe is what the dealer wanted to charge me for labor. That included forgetting to plug in the hazard switch and taking stuff back apart.
It's rewarding to do little things on a nice car and notice how well things fit and other little details, even if there is a small nick on the arm rest!
This is by no means a technical analysis instead, it's just my first gut impression. I am trading into a '02 330i (PP, Step, Xenon) from a '99 328i (PP, Step, Xenon) and picked up the car on Saturday. On the drive home, I immediately noticed two things: First, the throttle delivery (and shifting) seemed so incredibly smooth even compared to the 328i's; second, the "sport suspension calibration" is a really nice touch for those of us who opted to forgo the SP. I was generally surprised at how much improved the 330i felt as compared to an already stellar 328i. I haven't had a chance, due to the breakin, to really open up the engine to its full potential.
Also interesting to me were some of the amenities that have been added since '99 (might be old news for many): tilting right sideview mirror when in reverse, memory sideview mirrors associated with the memory seats, automatic headlight controls, and automatic int/ext circulating climate control.
I have also really enjoyed the HK upgrade. It's hard to judge between the two systems without listening to them back to back, but the HK upgrade seems to cure the "flatness" of the stock stereo system.
The xenons on the 330i seem much brighter and reaches both farther up and to the sides of the road. I will ask the dealer to check them out...may need recalibration.
I miss one afternoon and my eyes get bleary till I sift through all the posts... Well, I have about three minutes of fame before my wife summons me to feed Jason (our 2 1/2 month old family pet/troll) so I will be quick -
zuba - Selling a car with a manual is relative. Let me ask you this: What car with a manual would it be easier to sell than the 3-series?
summer v. all-season tires - A set of 4 performance tires at roughly $700 that last 25K miles will cost you about twice as much as all-season tires that last twice as long. That would be 5.6 cents a mile with the performance tires vs. 2.8 cents a mile with all-season tires. 3 cents a mile for tires alone is not insignificant but it honestly blows my mind that a potential 5-series buyer would be so concerned about tire expense.
Michelin Pilot Sport A/S - shipo, the tirerack.com comparo sounds convincing. My bottom line is this: I want the highest performance tires that I can use year-round without getting stuck in the snow for the type of driving that I do. I have the Audi for heavy-duty snow driving. Living right in Boston has made this very easy for me but most of the houses in the suburbs that we've been looking at have me convinced that summer tires will not cut it if I live in the suburbs. I have not decided between all-season vs. summer/snow tires for next season but the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S have me intrigued. Granted, they are very expensive so for the same amount of money you could probably get a set of Turanzas and Dunlop Winter sports that would be better in their respective season but what if they are a good compromise?
peirce1 - rain is not at all an issue with summer tires. I have not experienced any hydroplanning in 1 inch of standing water at high speed even my Contisports.
"But little of the confidence-inspiring, intangible goodness that sets the 3-series apart from the rest." Case in point: we were running late for an appointment with our real estate broker today and I was trying hard to get there on time. I kept pushing it on the freeway in very light traffic and my wife and 2 1/2 month old son did not complain at all. They were actually "talking" to each other in the back seat. When we got home tonight, I asked my wife if she was comfortable in the back seat. She said "yeah, I guess... I spent most of the time cooing at Jason and he was smiling at me". I asked what was the fastest she thought we were going at any point. She said "maybe 80". She missed the mark by at least 30 but some things are better left unsaid...
dave330i - The Honda S2000 thing went like this: "Hi, I saw the S2000 in front and I'd like to take it out for a test-drive" "Uh, OK, what's your situation"? "I have a 2001 325 that I'd consider trading" (somehow I kept a straight face) "Oh, great, I'll give you my undivided attention" 3 min later I was in the car...
3,000 lbs 3-series - it would be awesome but I like the E46 size and safety. They'd have to use lightweight materials to get that weight and that may make the car prohibitively expensive...
Brave - was that S2000 brand new? If so, there is a great point for never buying a sports car with more than 10 miles on the odometer. Given the opportunity, who could/would resist trying out those unreal red line numbers. My friend just bought a "new" car with over 200 miles on it and he didn't even seem to give it a second thought!
Murray - nice write up on your expereinces with your new pride and joy. Maybe we're twins. I used to live in Wisconsin. I had a 1986 RX-7 and a 1990 Probe GT. Now I have a 2000 323i. Wierd!(no Miata though).
Shipo - I went to our auto show last weekend and I couldn't stop looking at the 530i with SP. I didn't think I liked the 5 series as well as the 3 series, but the lines are absolutely gorgeous on that car when you stand back 10 feet and admire it from any direction. Congratulations again, make sure you treat all of us to a very detailed write up after you take deleivery. Who knows, I could be following in your footsteps.
On the snow tire issue, I have a 4WD truck for my "winter tires" and it has Bridgestone Dueler A/T tires with the big nobby treads. They stink in light snow and ice, but are great in mud, or deeper snow. In hindsight, I should have just bought some less expensive all-season street tires last time, but hey, that just wouldn't look cool on a big truck
95% business use (without counting commuting--which, as you explain, is non-existent in your case) is truly amazing! You are correct in that you can write-off the entire lease payment (with no "add-back") because your business use is in excess of 50%. Boy, I wish I had to use my car for work. Smart and honest, a rare combination. My admiration for you continues to grow!
Brave: What car with a manual would be easier to sell than the 3-series?
A Miata, which I think would be impossible to sell with an auto.
bmw323is: I had a 1986 RX-7 and a 1990 Probe GT
I think your RX-7 was the "newer" body style ('85) was the last of the original body style. The '93 Probe was the first year of the current body style. Still interesting. Bottom line, we ended up with the right car!
Thanks for the arm-rest write-up. A couple of follow-up questions, if you don't mind:
1. Do you just squeeze the gear-shift boot together to free it from the cover plate? How do you put it back? Any ideas on how it would be done with the step? (The step boot is smaler and has the extra gear selector plate over top; I don't know how to remove that plate. Just pry it up?)
2. Do you really have to unplug the windows and hazard switches. (With the step, there's probably a light for the gear selector to unplug too.)
3. Re. the carpet and padding that you have to hack away, is this covered by the console upon reinstall?
4. Is the new console longer than the one it replaces? The instructions refer to it as the "long console." Does this have any installation implications.
5. Do you remove the cupholders etc. because they have to be reinstalled in the new console? How do they fit in the new console?
6. You said that "the plastic piece that covers the arm rest pivot hinge didn't seem to snap into place." Are you happy with its appearance though?
7. In your opinion, is this something the aveage accountant (read, non-mechanically inclined) could do?
Comments
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Case in point, I have been to Park Avenue BMW to finish up my ED paperwork and deliver the proper monies two weekends in a row. In the used car lot, I saw a number of CPO 528is (plural) with 3 pedals; in addition, the only two 540is (plural) on the lot (including the one in the CPO showroom) were manual as well.
I know that when I lived in the Chicago area, I had a horrible time trying to buy a car with a manual transmission (even BMWs and Audis); maybe there is just too much resistance in your area. I remember a trip to the Audi dealership in Hinsdale (where I had bought two previous Audis, albeit, from a different salesman, who no longer worked there), and was told that they only sold cars equipped with an automatic, and that they would not even order me one with a 5-Speed! When I asked why, I was told, "You don't REALLY want a manual transmission, and so, if we order it for you, you will simply change your mind at the last minute, and stick us with the car."
With that type of idiocy, I simply walked off the lot, and found the dealership where my salesman then worked (Loeber Motors). Sheeesh!
Best Regards,
Shipo
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Best Regards,
Shipo
That’s pretty depraved. ;-) I find myself doing the same exact thing.
Best Regards,
Shipo
As Shipo pointed out - I do not want to have to buy new sport tires every 20-25K miles! If they lasted 40,000 miles - maybe!
The 2000 528 PP, Sport Package, and manual with 17,000 miles on it is still sitting on the dealers lot. Perfect condition, and in Chicago it may be hard to sell. The tires look good, but I do not want to replace them in the first 12 months of my ownership!
Any others out there with heavy mileage experience with Sport Tires!!
As much as I love driving, I'd honestly rather spend more time "sampling the urban enviros." The michelin site as well as the shellgeostar site have helped me narrow down which places to go. I think we'll try and do 3 cities. Munich to Berlin, Berlin to Amterdam, & Amsterdam back to Munich. I know Amsterdam to Munich is a bit of a trek, so we may decide to drop the car off there and fly out of Amsterdam.
I was thinking of picking the car up when I get there (not sure if this is wise or not), doing some sort of bike trail, checking out a castle, doing the science museum and of course doing lots of eating and a little drinking.
I'm not sure what I'd like to do in Berlin or Amsterdam.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Another thing to bear in mind is that you will probably need winter tires in Chicago anyway, so your summer tires will ony have about 8 months of wear per year.
Best Regards,
Shipo
Best Regards,
Shipo
G35: Studied it pretty close at the Pgh AutoShow last weekend. I have a Maxima, so I'm partial to Nissan products (they make the best "performing" Japanese cars). Nice looking car, with all the options, $34,000. Bigger than a 3-series, and outfitted with similar performance features (RWD, stability control, brake assist, 6-cyl, air bags galore...). Didn't drive one, but I know from experience that the 260 HP V6 will be much stronger than the 325's I6. I've driven a 325i, and while I love the engine, my Maxima has noticeably more low end torque, and it is the 1996 vintage 3.0 w/190 HP. To be honest, I don't like the 2.5 I6 better than the engine in my Maxima (I rate them a tie).
I wasn't swayed by the G35, especially for that price, but it was the only non-German car at the show that peaked my interest. To me the biggest things the 325 has over the G35 are a feeling of quality and solidity, and the obvious cache value (which can't be underestimated). Nice car, but, not for me. Also: the product literature shamelessly targets the 3-series, with many not so subtle comparisons, and a proclamation that 50-50 weight distribution is not the optimum for performance handling.
On an even more OT, Go Terps!
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Regardless of whether you buy or lease, your are also entitled to take all automobile related expenses, such as insurance, gas, and repairs and maintenance expenses (none, I know, under the BMW maintenance free program--although you did just put on new brakes, didn't you?) (alternatively you could use the standard mileage rate for these expenses).
All of these--your lease-payments-limited-by-the-add-back/depreciation and other related expenses--are, of course, limited to your percentage of business use, which must be supported by what is called "contemporaneous" (and detailed) records of where you went, who you saw/talked to, and what the business purpose of the trip was.
Don't worry, I won't tell the IRS, but I thought you should know.
Please keep us posted (some pictures on your web-site of the actual installation would be very helpful).
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
A 3000lb. 330?! Yes! Where can I sign up.
Of this new crop of 'sport' sedans showing up with 240+ hp, none of them (to the best of my knowledge) will out accelerate a 330 by any significant margin. Drop a couple hundred pounds and the 330 will out accelerate them AND leave them even further behind when the road gets twisty!
My theory is that you cannot do apples to apples comparisons to a 3-series, because if you do, you will never buy a BMW. The other cars will always offer more on-paper value and features for the money. Throw in the fact that you can usually get a better deal on a Japanese car than a BMW, and the logic dictates that you don't buy the Bimmer. So,...why doesn't everybody buy the IS300 or the 3.2TL?
Because, BMW has hit upon a magic factor, something intangible that cannot be quantified on a spread sheet. Its the feel of the car, the look, the cache, the "German-ness", the perfect balance of sport and luxury. No other car has that intangible element. Top that off with the fact that a 325i is actually a good value when you consider the features and technology that you can get for around $32,000. This is especially true since BMW realized that Americans don't like 4-cylindar sports or luxury cars like Europeans do, and made the I6 standard.
Lexus and Infinity should concentrate on giving their cars their own identity, not trying to make a better 3-series. Audi has done this nicely with the A4, which appeals to 3-series drivers, but for different reasons than a 3-series does. I looked at the A4 at the recent Pgh Autoshow - no thank you for a variety of reasons. But, at least I looked at it. I walked right past the IS300 with nary a glance.
1. Replace the driver's seat with racing seats.
2. Remove the passenger & rear seats.
3. Remove the spare tire.
That should reduce the overall weight by 200 lbs. or so.
#2 probably wouldn't fly with 'her majesty'.
LOL
Thanks
My travel is more Tasmanian Devil like, enjoy the monuments avoid the long lines at the museums unless the museums are free.
Oh - and the laughter on the G35 thread about the 7 series I believe is jealously.
But I say don't assume it is great on the basis of manufacturer's press releases, pre-production tests, buzz or hype. We won't even know anything about real world ownership costs for the next 3-5 years. How much will a 2003 G35 be worth in 2006? How reliable will it be? Does anyone know for sure? (If so, please tell me what stocks to pick and who will win next couple Super Bowls and World Series.)
As it turns out, I drive my car well over 90% for business (some years over 95%). Due to the fact that my wife has a Mini-Van, it is just so much convenient to take it (as opposed to my BMW) with the kids and whoever else is tagging along. ;-) As such, we only claim 90% of the cost of the vehicle as a corporate expense (we don't want to be too greedy ;-)). I am no accountant, however, it is my understanding that since the tax rules changed back in 1986, the ability to depreciate a company car has been severely limited, however, (once again) it is my understanding that a corporation can write off a lease as a straight expense (less personal use of course) with no limits imposed. Yes/No?
So far, the accounting firm that audits our books has never said anything other than "lease your cars". As a result, since 1986, every car any of us as driven has been leased.
NycCarGuy,
Oh, that (sheepish grin). I thought that the bilge water JagBoy was spouting was at least from his own experiences of car ownership. NOT! When somebody (Dave330i?) informed me that JagBoy was in fact a 16-year-old boy, it all became clear, I was arguing against the infinite wisdom of an immortal teenager. ;-) End of argument.
Best Regards,
Shipo
Does the corporation do the leasing. My unexpert understanding is that then it might all be deductible exept if a portion is done for personal use. In the other hand if it is a personal lease, I thought that commuting to and from work cannot be deducted.
If you drive the car more than 50% (I think) for business purposes, you can deduct either (i) actual expenses times the percentage of miles driven for business, less amounts reimbursed by the employer; or (ii) the standard mileage deduction, less amounts reimbursed.
Around 1995 for individuals, only up to approximately $16,000 of vehicle value, if purchased, could be depreciated (depreciation being included in actual expenses) per annum - no interest expense related to the purchase of the vehicle was deductible. With a lease, however, practically the entire lease payment (times the percentage driven for business) is deductible. You need to reduce the payment by an amount called the "inclusion", but this amount for me has been negligible. Since a lease payment consists of both interest (not deductible under owning) and depreciation of a vehicle greater than $16,000, leasing will usually give you a higher deduction for a higher-end vehicle.
For example, if you drive 60% for business and your employer reimburses you $0.32/mile, generally you can deduct 60% of all actual expenses (lease, gas, insurance, maintenance, etc.), less the $0.32/mile paid to you. You can lease the vehicle as an individual.
Leasing isn't for everyone and I do not purport to be a tax expert. Look up the instructions for form 2106 at www.irs.gov.
Bottom line: felt like a rear-drive Maxima, which is essentially what it is. Great engine, solid value, impressive performance. But little of the confidence-inspiring, intangible goodness that sets the 3-series apart from the rest.
I am thankful for cars like these; we the buyers benefit from the competition it breeds that somehow make near-perfect cars (like the 3-series) even better in the next iteration.
Ken
Unfortunately, it is rare these days that I get to work in my own office. :-( Essentially, if I drive my car, I am going to a client site, meeting a client at an off site location, driving to the airport for a business trip, or to fetch my business partner or a client. The only time that I drive the 328i for non-business stuff might be for running an errand or two on the weekend while my wife runs errands in her van.
In an effort to keep it as kosher as possible, I even drive my car home, park it, and drive the van over to the after school program to fetch my children, do the grocery shopping and fetch my wife from the train or bus from work. Given that scenario, it is easy to see why I can look an IRS agent in the eye, show him/her my documentation, and tell him/her that I only use my company car less than 7% of the time for non company business.
Best Regards,
Shipo
nyccarguy - I liked your original plan better -- a quick dash to Paris, check the car in and spend all your time there.
I installed the armrest a week ago. It didn't occur to me to take pictures. I wish you would have mentioned earlier.
Before I get into the details, here's a note for those who won't read to the end-the front of the arm rest is a great spot for a garage door opener! I stuck some adhesive backed velcro to the remote and the underside of the arm rest. The remote is well hidden and within easy reach. The down side is reduced usage of the back cup holder, but not much will fit there with the arm rest down anyway.
Now the details on installing the arm rest:
I followed Circle BMW's directions (thanks to whoever pointed them out) and, yes, they are a bit cryptic. The manual shifter boot comes off easily (not sure about the step). It's not necessary to completely remove the shift knob and plate.
The center console removes pretty easily. The screws are under the shift boot and the back ash tray. It took me a little while to pop out the cup holder and coin holder, but be patient and don't force anything.
The parking brake support screws are pretty clear when you hold the arm rest bracket in place. There are a couple hex bolts to remove. Replace them with two longer bolts which go through slots on the arm rest bracket with a couple of metal bushings to prevent cracking the plastic. You'll have to trim a little foam and carpet where the bracket goes. I nicked the bottom of the arm rest with my utility knife doing this (better than the seat for sure). I was surprised at how thick the foam was. No wonder why the interior is so quiet!
Putting everything back is pretty straight forward. Putting the new center console in was a bit tricky-I ended up pulling the parking brake up quit hard which helped. The plastic piece that covers the arm rest pivot hinge didn't seem to snap into place. It seemed to fit better after I replaced the back ashtray, though.
I think it took me less than 2 hours which I believe is what the dealer wanted to charge me for labor. That included forgetting to plug in the hazard switch and taking stuff back apart.
It's rewarding to do little things on a nice car and notice how well things fit and other little details, even if there is a small nick on the arm rest!
-Murray
Also interesting to me were some of the amenities that have been added since '99 (might be old news for many): tilting right sideview mirror when in reverse, memory sideview mirrors associated with the memory seats, automatic headlight controls, and automatic int/ext circulating climate control.
I have also really enjoyed the HK upgrade. It's hard to judge between the two systems without listening to them back to back, but the HK upgrade seems to cure the "flatness" of the stock stereo system.
The xenons on the 330i seem much brighter and reaches both farther up and to the sides of the road. I will ask the dealer to check them out...may need recalibration.
soupie1955 - glad to have been of help in anyway
zuba - Selling a car with a manual is relative. Let me ask you this: What car with a manual would it be easier to sell than the 3-series?
summer v. all-season tires - A set of 4 performance tires at roughly $700 that last 25K miles will cost you about twice as much as all-season tires that last twice as long. That would be 5.6 cents a mile with the performance tires vs. 2.8 cents a mile with all-season tires. 3 cents a mile for tires alone is not insignificant but it honestly blows my mind that a potential 5-series buyer would be so concerned about tire expense.
Michelin Pilot Sport A/S - shipo, the tirerack.com comparo sounds convincing. My bottom line is this: I want the highest performance tires that I can use year-round without getting stuck in the snow for the type of driving that I do. I have the Audi for heavy-duty snow driving. Living right in Boston has made this very easy for me but most of the houses in the suburbs that we've been looking at have me convinced that summer tires will not cut it if I live in the suburbs. I have not decided between all-season vs. summer/snow tires for next season but the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S have me intrigued. Granted, they are very expensive so for the same amount of money you could probably get a set of Turanzas and Dunlop Winter sports that would be better in their respective season but what if they are a good compromise?
peirce1 - rain is not at all an issue with summer tires. I have not experienced any hydroplanning in 1 inch of standing water at high speed even my Contisports.
"But little of the confidence-inspiring, intangible goodness that sets the 3-series apart from the rest." Case in point: we were running late for an appointment with our real estate broker today and I was trying hard to get there on time. I kept pushing it on the freeway in very light traffic and my wife and 2 1/2 month old son did not complain at all. They were actually "talking" to each other in the back seat. When we got home tonight, I asked my wife if she was comfortable in the back seat. She said "yeah, I guess... I spent most of the time cooing at Jason and he was smiling at me". I asked what was the fastest she thought we were going at any point. She said "maybe 80". She missed the mark by at least 30 but some things are better left unsaid...
dave330i - The Honda S2000 thing went like this:
"Hi, I saw the S2000 in front and I'd like to take it out for a test-drive"
"Uh, OK, what's your situation"?
"I have a 2001 325 that I'd consider trading" (somehow I kept a straight face)
"Oh, great, I'll give you my undivided attention"
3 min later I was in the car...
3,000 lbs 3-series - it would be awesome but I like the E46 size and safety. They'd have to use lightweight materials to get that weight and that may make the car prohibitively expensive...
Shipo: can i get a complimentry anti carpel -tunnel mouse of yours, i agree with brave allmost 15k post im dying over here...
DL
Murray - nice write up on your expereinces with your new pride and joy. Maybe we're twins. I used to live in Wisconsin. I had a 1986 RX-7 and a 1990 Probe GT. Now I have a 2000 323i. Wierd!(no Miata though).
Shipo - I went to our auto show last weekend and I couldn't stop looking at the 530i with SP. I didn't think I liked the 5 series as well as the 3 series, but the lines are absolutely gorgeous on that car when you stand back 10 feet and admire it from any direction. Congratulations again, make sure you treat all of us to a very detailed write up after you take deleivery. Who knows, I could be following in your footsteps.
On the snow tire issue, I have a 4WD truck for my "winter tires" and it has Bridgestone Dueler A/T tires with the big nobby treads. They stink in light snow and ice, but are great in mud, or deeper snow. In hindsight, I should have just bought some less expensive all-season street tires last time, but hey, that just wouldn't look cool on a big truck
What car with a manual would be easier to sell than the 3-series?
A Miata, which I think would be impossible to sell with an auto.
bmw323is:
I had a 1986 RX-7 and a 1990 Probe GT
I think your RX-7 was the "newer" body style ('85) was the last of the original body style. The '93 Probe was the first year of the current body style. Still interesting. Bottom line, we ended up with the right car!
-Murray
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
1. Do you just squeeze the gear-shift boot together to free it from the cover plate? How do you put it back? Any ideas on how it would be done with the step? (The step boot is smaler and has the extra gear selector plate over top; I don't know how to remove that plate. Just pry it up?)
2. Do you really have to unplug the windows and hazard switches. (With the step, there's probably a light for the gear selector to unplug too.)
3. Re. the carpet and padding that you have to hack away, is this covered by the console upon reinstall?
4. Is the new console longer than the one it replaces? The instructions refer to it as the "long console." Does this have any installation implications.
5. Do you remove the cupholders etc. because they have to be reinstalled in the new console? How do they fit in the new console?
6. You said that "the plastic piece that covers the arm rest pivot hinge didn't seem to snap into place." Are you happy with its appearance though?
7. In your opinion, is this something the aveage accountant (read, non-mechanically inclined) could do?
Thanks for your help.