About an hour later I went back and told him how much I wanted for my trade. Of course he left to talk to the man behind the curtain. When he came back he agreed on a trade price I could live with.
That little trip back home for an hour netted an additional $2,500 for the good guy. (That’s me in this story).
Anyway – I am now the owner of a black/black Regal turbo. If I ever finish repairing my garage floor I will be able to get it in the garage.
They made some money, I was happy with the deal. Everyone seemed happy.
Did I miss the resolution to your car buying story? Weren't you going to make an offer on a Mini for your son and debating the proper strategy for making your offer?
As of Friday -knock on wood- the 1975 2002 will once again be roadworthy- equipped with a rebuilt heater box, upgraded radiator/shroud/fan, new seat belts, and 320iS Recaros. My wife said she wants to drive it. At this point everyone has access to at least two cars they can drive, so we are going to hold off on any trades/purchases and see how things go...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I would also advise going on a Friday or Saturday night before, say, 12am. Quite awesome people watching, but too much later and the characters there turn a little seedy.
My first experience was at that hour as a freshmen. I grew up in Mexico City and I had never seen anything like that. It made quite an impression on me.
Congrats, Joe. Sounds good (except mine would have been white on white).
This turbo thing seems to be catching on. I understand they get slightly better mileage than naturally aspirated, but thrill the driver into buying with the added power.
I just discovered the eco-boost in a Ford truck yesterday so now I pay attention to turbo stories.
Regal is a fine car and Buick has been left behind like a red headed stepchild for no reason I can find. My dad had them for years. When he traded his (I think) Park Ave on a Regal his trade was a turbo and brought good trade money. Good luck with yours. OhOh is it 2011 or 2012? Just curious. Dave
Looks like the sons/daughters of the O guy went to school with the sons of the Krispy Kream founder (just to bring it back to a little bit less off topic.)
This turbo thing seems to be catching on. I understand they get slightly better mileage than naturally aspirated, but thrill the driver into buying with the added power.
The new turbos do get good mileage IF you don't use the added power. My naturally aspirated ti gets 26-27 mpg on the road(no matter how hard I flog it) and 14-15 mpg on the track. My Mazdaspeed 3 gets @27 mpg on the road(if I drive with considerable restraint) but less than 10 mpg on the track.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Congratulations - Nice to hear a deal that is quick and painless on both sides - I guess the test drive strategy at the Ford place was not enough to win you over?
That's when the sales manager appeared in the office. I left anyway; promising to return.
Was his name Rocko?
By the way, was the knee cap thing OK. Could you see where it could happen? I will say, my wife and I sit pretty far forward. I am 5'9" but like to be as forward as possible.
Anyway – I am now the owner of a black/black Regal turbo. If I ever finish repairing my garage floor I will be able to get it in the garage.
Black is the color to get with the Regal, it looks good with the chrome. I like the idea of the Regal over the Lacrosse because it is a neater size, for parking etc.
The deal went down nicely. As I say, calculate you will have 5 years of worry free driving, a new car, it won't cost much more to run than a clunker. You may have to cut back on a bottle of wine a day.
Good story, glad it all worked out so well and was easy. When it is meant to be it it all goes together nicely.
A/C reconditioning - is this something unique to BMW's? Or is it a new name for blowing the dead grasshoppers out of the grill with an air hose?
They claim it needs a new filter and all moisture and any mould should be cleaned out. The car is 4 years old but only has 30k miles on it. Tires are about half worn....I am thinking of maybe doing some of these things over the next year....maybe let the tires wear down then get new ones with a balance and alignment, maybe trading it in for a 2011 or 2012 when the new ones come out and using the $1000 to help pay for a new one.
Not sure, but 4 years of worry free driving was nice.
They claim it needs a new filter and all moisture and any mould should be cleaned out.
BS!!!! Your car probably needs an in-cabin filter. It is USUALLY behind the glove box and takes 10 minutes to change. I am sure if you Google BMW 3 seriers Cabin filter replacement you can get instructions. The part was $20 bucks for my Genny.
Otherwise if the air blows cold and doesn't stink leave it alone. If it does have a foul odor, change the filter and then spray some Lysol in the air intake with the system on high and let run for awhile.
A/C reconditioning - is this something unique to BMW's? Or is it a new name for blowing the dead grasshoppers out of the grill with an air hose?
That is a textbook attempt by a shady dealer to gouge an unsuspecting or naive owner. If the A/C is cooling fine and doesn't have a musty smell all that is needed is a new microfilter- cheap and dead easy to replace. In any event, if I was facing a $1000 repair bill my first thought would be to "save" money by flipping the car saddling myself with another 3-5 years of consumer debt... :P
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
As I say, calculate you will have 5 years of worry free driving, a new car, it won't cost much more to run than a clunker
I have to put my .02 in here. I don't think that any paid off "clunker" could cost more to operate than a 30K new car. If you figure a modest payment of $450 a month the old car will be substantially cheaper. If you figure in the cheaper auto insurance its even more.
I know someone with an older Honda Accord with over 200K on the clock. He said it does cost him some sort of maintenance/repair every few months. Last year I think he spent 1800 on it (including new tires). That is a lot cheaper than the payment (or deprecation if bought cash).
Having said all that...... I would still WANT the new car (knowing it does cost me more, but I enjoy it!)
LOL. No. He wasn't very agressive for a manager either.
By the way, was the knee cap thing OK.
As I mentioned previously, that was one thing I looked for. I didn't have any trouble. I'm 6'-1" and usually have the seat pretty far back so that may be the reason.
They must have really improved the handling of Buicks to induce you to change over from a Madza.
It handles very nicely. Not as well as the Mazda though. Just one of the things you compromise on.
I can honestly say that the Mazda 6 Grand Touring I traded was one car I really liked. It was fast and handled really well. It had more features too. It was just time to move on.
I have to put my .02 in here. I don't think that any paid off "clunker" could cost more to operate than a 30K new car. If you figure a modest payment of $450 a month the old car will be substantially cheaper. If you figure in the cheaper auto insurance its even more.
It might make sense to swap if you were trying to run a Countach as a daily driver, but my monthly budget for repairs/maintenance is $400 for four (paid off)cars. I guess I should buy four new cars; I'd save a TON of money!!!
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I suspect Richard may weigh in with an opinion on this as well, but my wife is the director of the early childhood programs (Preschool and FT child care) for a small school district not far from where we live.
She is involved with a program called "Handwriting without Tears", which aims to teach children how to learn cursive. At first it was used only by her program; last year, they convinced the kindergarten team at both elementary schools to adopt it. This year, grades 1-3 are going to use the program as well.
One point that was made about cursive isn't so much the ability to write, but rather the ability to read, cursive. How else would you be able to read the original copy of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution?
When I traded my 328 in the depreciation worked out to 7800 a year to drive a car under warranty for 4 years...with no repairs. Mako's 2007 Escape is worth $6100. After 5 years it has depreciated about $20K so it cost $4000 a year to drive plus repairs, maybe $1000 ayear for repairs if you are lucky. That's $5000 a year. So, for the cost of a package of cigarettes a day, or a cheap bottle of wine a day, I can drive a new BMW. Think about it!
I actually did put some thought into this, and I'll put another perspective on the matter. The last new car I purchased (now I drive company cars) was a 2006 Hyundai Sonata in 2005. I sold it after 5 years when the company provided me a vehicle. Depreciation was about $2,000/year depending on how you calculate it. If you include TTL in depreciation then it'll be just a bit more. Repair costs added up to zero dollars. Maintenance was less than $1,600 over the 5 years and more than 60,000 miles, with half that coming from a nice set of tires, the next largest chunk from synthetic oil and oil filters, and the remainder from other fluids and filters. I do my own maintenance and follow the more rigorous schedule.
That works out to about $2,320/year for the Hyundai compared to $7,800/year for the BMW, and obviously we're not including any differences in yearly insurance, tax, or fueling costs. The Hyundai has significantly more passenger and trunk volume, and I believe the Hyundai 3.3 motor has more power. I never track raced, drag raced, or anything even remotely similar, so the BMWs prowess would have been lost on me. It was just a daily driver.
I'm sure there are many other examples, both more expensive and less so, but this is the only recent personal example I can provide. I know BMW provides a great ride at the limit, but for $5,700 difference each year of ownership, I was happy with the Sonata.
In any event, if I was facing a $1000 repair bill my first thought would be to "save" money by flipping the car saddling myself with another 3-5 years of consumer debt...
I always like a 2nd opinion on these matters and you just confirmed this a/c thing is a scam. Makes me extra cautious and I thank you for your comments and your professional opinion....as you are the master of BMWs.
I don't know though about a new one. We once hhad ads for mufflers and the guy said "You can pay me now or you can pay me later". I think it is that way with cars, they get older, break down more, are worth less, and you could end up paying more in the long run....unless I could do my own repairs like you do.
That works out to about $2,320/year for the Hyundai compared to $7,800/year for the BMW, and
I like the way you did those figures. I shouldn't have compared a premium BMW and Canadian as well. Let's say a US 328 which will come in at about $48k I am guessing. After 4 years it will be worth $24k or $6000 a year depreciation.
So for $3700 a year more you are driving a really nice car that you will enjoy a lot more...the cost of 2 Starbucks lattes a day, a pack of cigarettes, or a bottle of wine a day.
See what you think this time. If you say Sonata, I understand, nothing wrong with extra cash, but if you say BMW I get that too...oh yeh!
Anyway – I am now the owner of a black/black Regal turbo. If I ever finish repairing my garage floor I will be able to get it in the garage.
They made some money, I was happy with the deal. Everyone seemed happy.
Big congrats. I've heard nothing but good things about the new Regals....especially the turbos. Sounds like a looker, too. :shades:
kyfdx....driver....dropped of my car this a.m. at the dealer top download some software to take care of some iPhone issues. I could have waited on it. Instead, they gave me a 328 convertible as a loaner.
Not as fast as mine, but really a fun car with the top down, nonetheless. It has 800 miles on it so they must have just put it into their loaner fleet.
One point that was made about cursive isn't so much the ability to write, but rather the ability to read, cursive. How else would you be able to read the original copy of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution?
Some people never could figure out how to “read” it.
When I was a kid starting out in my field of work, I gave a sheet of paper that I had written in cursive to my first lead engineer for review. He looked at it and looked it and then he looked me right in the eye and said, “son, you’re going to have to learn how to print”. Believe it or not my cursive was pretty good compared to most but in our line of work printing was the way it was done. I have not written in cursive to this day other than to test myself to see if I can still do it. I fail the test EVERY TIME.
My profession ruined a pretty good cursive writer.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
"...She was pretty and personable, but the whole thing creeped me out..."
I guess you have reached a level of maturity where what would have been a top 10 fantasy as a teenager becomes uninteresting. Very much like when on a field trip I had to yell at the girl cheerleaders to make them stop changing clothes in the back of my bus. :sick:
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
So for $3700 a year more you are driving a really nice car that you will enjoy a lot more...the cost of 2 Starbucks lattes a day, a pack of cigarettes, or a bottle of wine a day.
See what you think this time. If you say Sonata, I understand, nothing wrong with extra cash, but if you say BMW I get that too...oh yeh!
You have a unique way of trying to justify your purchase of BMW’s. Just knock off the justifications and say, “I WANT a BMW”. There is nothing wrong with wanting something and then getting it. So do it the easy way already. I’ve told everyone here that Mrs. jmonroe always says I’m spoiled and I get everything I want. I know it and I admit it. Isn’t it about time you do the same?
Please don’t take this the wrong way because you are not a liar. There is an old saying ”figures don’t lie but liars figure”. Statistics and justifications can be presented in such a way that they support what the presenter said. You have a masters in this trait maybe even a PhD.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Not all Buicks are mattresses. Earlier Buicks had a very soft but controlled ride--perfect for long days spent on highways traveling cross country. In 2000 when leSabre changed to related platform from Seville and Aurora the agility really changed.
Earlier cars may have been abused by not having struts replaced when they softened from original. In 2003 or so I had a 1995 Park Avenue loaner which had GM struts for replacements and it was much better controlled for handling and still retained its superb ride for highway travel.
My 1998 leSabre with 60 K mi got replacement Monroe sensatrac struts and has been great for handling and for ride on highway with 120K mi on those struts. I think they have a lifetime warranty if I decide they are too soft again. Now I don't drive it like I stole it, but if I do race around a city corner, it holds its own without excessive lean and with balance suitable for a car that's over-the-road as well.
So the Regal was a little European in its setup for me and a laCrosse is more car than I want. A Cruze, or the Buick upversion to come, would be very attractive to replace my older leSabre, if it should ever fail; it's only got 185,000 miles and 14 years.
Good post Imid. I really laugh at some of the comments:
"Driving a mattress" "steering so numb I felt unsafe" etc, etc
I've driven many Buicks and liked the way the rode. I've had no problem cruising down the highway at higher speeds and never felt out of control. I think the car magazines have determined its a bad thing to have a car that rides soft and has light steering.
I always go back to the fact that one of the best selling cars in America is the Camry. It has a fairly floaty, isolated ride. People must like it.
When my Parents got their last Camry (an 09 SE) the salesperson warned them that it rides firmer than an LE/XLE Camry. She explained that several people bought the SE because they liked the looks of it and later complained it rode too firm. My mother certainly noticed it rode firmer than the other Camry (an 03 LE) but didn't mind it.
That's what my son has. I'm sure that the struts are original because he doesn't do anything to his cars until smoke is pouring out of the hood. With all the fender benders this car has been in for all I know the sway bar links are broken.
When I first got it for him it was a pretty good riding car, somewhat floaty but it's a Buick. Now, it seems to be like riding a raft in rough seas. It only has about 84K miles.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Actually, I spotted some replacement cabin filters made by Febreeze. Now there is a manufacturer that is thinking. I don't know if I would want one for my car, but I will bet that a lot of people will be purchasing them to rid their cars of that foul odour.
"...and the only passenger is a late teen female who is very pretty and engaging..."
Been there, done that......like a thousand times. Maybe I'm just jaded or that I've gotten to the age where spending my money wisely trumps a pretty face. :confuse:
I still think it's a clever marketing idea.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Anyway – I am now the owner of a black/black Regal turbo. If I ever finish repairing my garage floor I will be able to get it in the garage.
Congratulation on your new car. If I ever buy from GM again, it would more than likely be a Buick and by then the turbo’s will probably be standard equipment. For that matter in a few years, turbo’s will probably be standard on just about all cars.
The most reliable car I ever had that was more than just 5 years old was an ’80 Buick Park Ave. that I had until ’97. Don’t get me started on why I let Mrs. j talk me into, “just let the thing go already, OK?”
So what’s with the garage floor? Do you have to carpet it for your new toy? :surprise:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
You looked at cars for sale, listed on Autotrader. Those data in no way support a claim either way. That is no more valid than saying that it is uncommon for a house built in the 1950's to still be standing because you couldn't find very many 1950's houses listed for sale.
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name. 2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h) Review your vehicle
Congrats, venture! I'll be interested to hear how you like it in a few weeks. My parents were visiting last night/today, and my mom is considering purchasing a new Regal. Her current vehicle is 10 yrs old and while it runs fine, my dad's point to her was, well, we will eventually have to trade in our vehicles (he's looking too), so why not do it now while we are still young enough to enjoy and drive a nice car? Good point.
Well, this morning I was talking to her about the Regal (they had one as the previous vehicle to this one, and really liked it), and mentioned there was a turbo version, and she kind of perked up at that idea. I don't know if she'd get much benefit from it, but hey... it's her money & her car.
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name. 2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h) Review your vehicle
This took all of 3 mins searching on CL searching for sub $1500 vehicles. 200K on a domestic is certainly possible and common. I personally had a 79 Continental with 200K, and a good friend had a LeSabre with 275K (original engine/trans).
Comments
That little trip back home for an hour netted an additional $2,500 for the good guy. (That’s me in this story).
Anyway – I am now the owner of a black/black Regal turbo. If I ever finish repairing my garage floor I will be able to get it in the garage.
They made some money, I was happy with the deal. Everyone seemed happy.
2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport
As of Friday -knock on wood- the 1975 2002 will once again be roadworthy- equipped with a rebuilt heater box, upgraded radiator/shroud/fan, new seat belts, and 320iS Recaros. My wife said she wants to drive it. At this point everyone has access to at least two cars they can drive, so we are going to hold off on any trades/purchases and see how things go...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
My first experience was at that hour as a freshmen. I grew up in Mexico City and I had never seen anything like that. It made quite an impression on me.
This turbo thing seems to be catching on. I understand they get slightly better mileage than naturally aspirated, but thrill the driver into buying with the added power.
I just discovered the eco-boost in a Ford truck yesterday so now I pay attention to turbo stories.
Regal is a fine car and Buick has been left behind like a red headed stepchild for no reason I can find. My dad had them for years. When he traded his (I think) Park Ave on a Regal his trade was a turbo and brought good trade money. Good luck with yours. OhOh is it 2011 or 2012? Just curious. Dave
2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali
Looks like the sons/daughters of the O guy went to school with the sons of the Krispy Kream founder (just to bring it back to a little bit less off topic.)
The new turbos do get good mileage IF you don't use the added power. My naturally aspirated ti gets 26-27 mpg on the road(no matter how hard I flog it) and 14-15 mpg on the track. My Mazdaspeed 3 gets @27 mpg on the road(if I drive with considerable restraint) but less than 10 mpg on the track.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
OMG, I've always thought that. If newspapers want to reverse their declining readership, this is a sure way to do it.
That's the way to do it. Congrats!
It's a 2011. End of model year and last day of the month.
I don't think the 2012's are out yet. At least I can't find one within 100 miles of me.
2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport
:shades:
A/C reconditioning - is this something unique to BMW's? Or is it a new name for blowing the dead grasshoppers out of the grill with an air hose?
I meant no offense. I even used the zerbet :P icon so mako1a would know I was joking.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Was his name Rocko?
By the way, was the knee cap thing OK. Could you see where it could happen? I will say, my wife and I sit pretty far forward. I am 5'9" but like to be as forward as possible.
Anyway – I am now the owner of a black/black Regal turbo. If I ever finish repairing my garage floor I will be able to get it in the garage.
Black is the color to get with the Regal, it looks good with the chrome. I like the idea of the Regal over the Lacrosse because it is a neater size, for parking etc.
The deal went down nicely. As I say, calculate you will have 5 years of worry free driving, a new car, it won't cost much more to run than a clunker. You may have to cut back on a bottle of wine a day.
Good story, glad it all worked out so well and was easy. When it is meant to be it it all goes together nicely.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Congrats on your purchase. They must have really improved the handling of Buicks to induce you to change over from a Madza.
My son's old LaSabre handles like driving a matress.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
They claim it needs a new filter and all moisture and any mould should be cleaned out. The car is 4 years old but only has 30k miles on it. Tires are about half worn....I am thinking of maybe doing some of these things over the next year....maybe let the tires wear down then get new ones with a balance and alignment, maybe trading it in for a 2011 or 2012 when the new ones come out and using the $1000 to help pay for a new one.
Not sure, but 4 years of worry free driving was nice.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
LOL. She was very pretty and personable, but the whole thing creeped me out a little.
2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport
BS!!!! Your car probably needs an in-cabin filter. It is USUALLY behind the glove box and takes 10 minutes to change. I am sure if you Google BMW 3 seriers Cabin filter replacement you can get instructions. The part was $20 bucks for my Genny.
Otherwise if the air blows cold and doesn't stink leave it alone. If it does have a foul odor, change the filter and then spray some Lysol in the air intake with the system on high and let run for awhile.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
That is a textbook attempt by a shady dealer to gouge an unsuspecting or naive owner. If the A/C is cooling fine and doesn't have a musty smell all that is needed is a new microfilter- cheap and dead easy to replace.
In any event, if I was facing a $1000 repair bill my first thought would be to "save" money by flipping the car saddling myself with another 3-5 years of consumer debt... :P
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I have to put my .02 in here. I don't think that any paid off "clunker" could cost more to operate than a 30K new car. If you figure a modest payment of $450 a month the old car will be substantially cheaper. If you figure in the cheaper auto insurance its even more.
I know someone with an older Honda Accord with over 200K on the clock. He said it does cost him some sort of maintenance/repair every few months. Last year I think he spent 1800 on it (including new tires). That is a lot cheaper than the payment (or deprecation if bought cash).
Having said all that...... I would still WANT the new car (knowing it does cost me more, but I enjoy it!)
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
LOL. No. He wasn't very agressive for a manager either.
By the way, was the knee cap thing OK.
As I mentioned previously, that was one thing I looked for. I didn't have any trouble. I'm 6'-1" and usually have the seat pretty far back so that may be the reason.
2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport
Nice!
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
It handles very nicely. Not as well as the Mazda though. Just one of the things you compromise on.
I can honestly say that the Mazda 6 Grand Touring I traded was one car I really liked. It was fast and handled really well. It had more features too. It was just time to move on.
2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport
It might make sense to swap if you were trying to run a Countach as a daily driver, but my monthly budget for repairs/maintenance is $400 for four (paid off)cars. I guess I should buy four new cars; I'd save a TON of money!!!
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I suspect Richard may weigh in with an opinion on this as well, but my wife is the director of the early childhood programs (Preschool and FT child care) for a small school district not far from where we live.
She is involved with a program called "Handwriting without Tears", which aims to teach children how to learn cursive. At first it was used only by her program; last year, they convinced the kindergarten team at both elementary schools to adopt it. This year, grades 1-3 are going to use the program as well.
One point that was made about cursive isn't so much the ability to write, but rather the ability to read, cursive. How else would you be able to read the original copy of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution?
I actually did put some thought into this, and I'll put another perspective on the matter. The last new car I purchased (now I drive company cars) was a 2006 Hyundai Sonata in 2005. I sold it after 5 years when the company provided me a vehicle. Depreciation was about $2,000/year depending on how you calculate it. If you include TTL in depreciation then it'll be just a bit more. Repair costs added up to zero dollars. Maintenance was less than $1,600 over the 5 years and more than 60,000 miles, with half that coming from a nice set of tires, the next largest chunk from synthetic oil and oil filters, and the remainder from other fluids and filters. I do my own maintenance and follow the more rigorous schedule.
That works out to about $2,320/year for the Hyundai compared to $7,800/year for the BMW, and obviously we're not including any differences in yearly insurance, tax, or fueling costs. The Hyundai has significantly more passenger and trunk volume, and I believe the Hyundai 3.3 motor has more power. I never track raced, drag raced, or anything even remotely similar, so the BMWs prowess would have been lost on me. It was just a daily driver.
I'm sure there are many other examples, both more expensive and less so, but this is the only recent personal example I can provide. I know BMW provides a great ride at the limit, but for $5,700 difference each year of ownership, I was happy with the Sonata.
I have never driven a mattress....does yours have a steering wheel?
Actually, I know what you mean though.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Thanks for the tip....I guess that now the warranty is up I have to take precautionary measures and not believe what the service advisors tell me.
I am going to be extra careful when dealing with them, maybe use a good independent mechanic, which we have near here. Sounds like good advice.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I always like a 2nd opinion on these matters and you just confirmed this a/c thing is a scam. Makes me extra cautious and I thank you for your comments and your professional opinion....as you are the master of BMWs.
I don't know though about a new one. We once hhad ads for mufflers and the guy said "You can pay me now or you can pay me later". I think it is that way with cars, they get older, break down more, are worth less, and you could end up paying more in the long run....unless I could do my own repairs like you do.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I like the way you did those figures. I shouldn't have compared a premium BMW and Canadian as well. Let's say a US 328 which will come in at about $48k I am guessing. After 4 years it will be worth $24k or $6000 a year depreciation.
So for $3700 a year more you are driving a really nice car that you will enjoy a lot more...the cost of 2 Starbucks lattes a day, a pack of cigarettes, or a bottle of wine a day.
See what you think this time. If you say Sonata, I understand, nothing wrong with extra cash, but if you say BMW I get that too...oh yeh!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
They made some money, I was happy with the deal. Everyone seemed happy.
Big congrats. I've heard nothing but good things about the new Regals....especially the turbos. Sounds like a looker, too. :shades:
kyfdx....driver....dropped of my car this a.m. at the dealer top download some software to take care of some iPhone issues. I could have waited on it. Instead, they gave me a 328 convertible as a loaner.
Not as fast as mine, but really a fun car with the top down, nonetheless. It has 800 miles on it so they must have just put it into their loaner fleet.
Some people never could figure out how to “read” it.
When I was a kid starting out in my field of work, I gave a sheet of paper that I had written in cursive to my first lead engineer for review. He looked at it and looked it and then he looked me right in the eye and said, “son, you’re going to have to learn how to print”. Believe it or not my cursive was pretty good compared to most but in our line of work printing was the way it was done. I have not written in cursive to this day other than to test myself to see if I can still do it. I fail the test EVERY TIME.
My profession ruined a pretty good cursive writer.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I guess you have reached a level of maturity where what would have been a top 10 fantasy as a teenager becomes uninteresting. Very much like when on a field trip I had to yell at the girl cheerleaders to make them stop changing clothes in the back of my bus. :sick:
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Will have a sales story, next week... picking up a new car on Saturday..
To be continued......
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See what you think this time. If you say Sonata, I understand, nothing wrong with extra cash, but if you say BMW I get that too...oh yeh!
You have a unique way of trying to justify your purchase of BMW’s. Just knock off the justifications and say, “I WANT a BMW”. There is nothing wrong with wanting something and then getting it. So do it the easy way already. I’ve told everyone here that Mrs. jmonroe always says I’m spoiled and I get everything I want. I know it and I admit it. Isn’t it about time you do the same?
Please don’t take this the wrong way because you are not a liar. There is an old saying ”figures don’t lie but liars figure”. Statistics and justifications can be presented in such a way that they support what the presenter said. You have a masters in this trait maybe even a PhD.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Stereotypes:
Not all Buicks are mattresses. Earlier Buicks had a very soft but controlled ride--perfect for long days spent on highways traveling cross country. In 2000 when leSabre changed to related platform from Seville and Aurora the agility really changed.
Earlier cars may have been abused by not having struts replaced when they softened from original. In 2003 or so I had a 1995 Park Avenue loaner which had GM struts for replacements and it was much better controlled for handling and still retained its superb ride for highway travel.
My 1998 leSabre with 60 K mi got replacement Monroe sensatrac struts and has been great for handling and for ride on highway with 120K mi on those struts. I think they have a lifetime warranty if I decide they are too soft again. Now I don't drive it like I stole it, but if I do race around a city corner, it holds its own without excessive lean and with balance suitable for a car that's over-the-road as well.
So the Regal was a little European in its setup for me and a laCrosse is more car than I want. A Cruze, or the Buick upversion to come, would be very attractive to replace my older leSabre, if it should ever fail; it's only got 185,000 miles and 14 years.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
"Driving a mattress"
"steering so numb I felt unsafe"
etc, etc
I've driven many Buicks and liked the way the rode. I've had no problem cruising down the highway at higher speeds and never felt out of control. I think the car magazines have determined its a bad thing to have a car that rides soft and has light steering.
I always go back to the fact that one of the best selling cars in America is the Camry. It has a fairly floaty, isolated ride. People must like it.
When my Parents got their last Camry (an 09 SE) the salesperson warned them that it rides firmer than an LE/XLE Camry. She explained that several people bought the SE because they liked the looks of it and later complained it rode too firm. My mother certainly noticed it rode firmer than the other Camry (an 03 LE) but didn't mind it.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
Imagine yourself driving your bus and the only passenger is a late teen female who is very pretty and engaging... :surprise:
2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport
That's what my son has. I'm sure that the struts are original because he doesn't do anything to his cars until smoke is pouring out of the hood. With all the fender benders this car has been in for all I know the sway bar links are broken.
When I first got it for him it was a pretty good riding car, somewhat floaty but it's a Buick. Now, it seems to be like riding a raft in rough seas. It only has about 84K miles.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Randy
Been there, done that......like a thousand times. Maybe I'm just jaded or that I've gotten to the age where spending my money wisely trumps a pretty face. :confuse:
I still think it's a clever marketing idea.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Congratulation on your new car. If I ever buy from GM again, it would more than likely be a Buick and by then the turbo’s will probably be standard equipment. For that matter in a few years, turbo’s will probably be standard on just about all cars.
The most reliable car I ever had that was more than just 5 years old was an ’80 Buick Park Ave. that I had until ’97. Don’t get me started on why I let Mrs. j talk me into, “just let the thing go already, OK?”
So what’s with the garage floor? Do you have to carpet it for your new toy? :surprise:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Common? seriousy doubt that.
Autotrader, 25 miles within my zip code, over 100K miles brings up:
Had to manually search for cars over 200K miles, went through 10 pages of listings:
3 Foriegn makes
2 Domestic makes
Not common at all!
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
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Well, this morning I was talking to her about the Regal (they had one as the previous vehicle to this one, and really liked it), and mentioned there was a turbo version, and she kind of perked up at that idea. I don't know if she'd get much benefit from it, but hey... it's her money & her car.
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
Review your vehicle
Try Craigslist....
267K
187K
196K
214K w/odometer pic
230K
This took all of 3 mins searching on CL searching for sub $1500 vehicles. 200K on a domestic is certainly possible and common. I personally had a 79 Continental with 200K, and a good friend had a LeSabre with 275K (original engine/trans).
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
To be continued......
kyfdx.....OK.....you've got my attention now. Can we guess? Ummm....is it a BMW? Two doors?
You must not frequent other forums here at Edmunds, GG. I've actually seen a picture of what KY is picking up this weekend.
BMW? Yes
Two doors? Also yes
I'm sure that the struts are original because he doesn't do anything to his cars until smoke is pouring out of the hood
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD