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I'm on call tomorrow then should have the rest of this week & weekend to have some cut-throat bargaining sessions! Actually, my friend suggested I fax each of the dealerships saying I am willing to pay 750 over invoice and the first one who returns my call/fax will receive my business for my order car. However, I am weary that they'll give me a price close to that then try and screw me on my trade-in when the bimmer actually arrives or start charging all these dealer prep fees, advertising fees, etc. Besides Houston, I guess the next closest dealership would be Austin and lord knows they prob won't deal. Let the FUN begin! HA!
Thank you,
Greg
This is what I don't understand. Why wouldn't they do the inspection 1 and reset the service indicator instead of having me come in for another service appointment in 2700 miles.
I get a free oil change, but it seems like a waste of 7 quarts after only 2700 miles.
-murray
If you want to a go with Momentum, I can suggest my sales advisor. If you go with BMW North, I know that LeeNelsonMD would suggest his sales advisor. Houston is a tough market to deal. Houstonians tend to like cars north of $30K, so there is always a dealer ready to relieve a willing buyer of their money. Also, they are a lot of 3er and 5er running around in Houston. So, it obvious that the dealers have no problem getting rid of their allocation with no more than a $500 discount.I only got $700 off of my ED 325i. I did not fuss and I really don't need the loaner because I have two vehicles. Also, ED is lower than the standard MSRP. If you want to get a BMW at a significantly lower price, buy outside of Houston.
i drive a 2003 330i and coming to work today after getting off the highway i turned the radio off and listened to that beautiful music the engine sings. never in any car would i do this. it is something i do often and love the bavarian music!
i am planning to purchase a 325 2002 bmw with SP no sunroof for 27k, 31500 miles. what do u guys think. i am located in bay area ca?
i drive a 2003 330i and coming to work today after getting off the highway i turned the radio off and listened to that beautiful music the engine sings. never in any car would i do this. it is something i do often and love the bavarian music!
Memphis10
Get the 325i with the SP and the 5-speed vs. the used 330 with the automatic. The driving experience is worth it (drive both to judge for yourself), but the 325 with the 5-speed might feel just a quick as the 330 with the auto. There isn't as much low-end torque, but the 5-speed allows you more control and you can keep the car in the power band.
Crevels
2002 CPO 330Ci
5-sp/SP/PP/Xenon/Heated Seats
SL,MD
This gets me to my question. Does anybody know when the 325i 2004 will be available for order/delivery - don't have the time for the ED option?
Thanks
I need a "commuter" car for the next 2 years. My two main criteria are "decent" gas mileage and the ability to handle the snow we get here in the northeast. I'll buy 4 snow tires for the winter. Additionally I'd like the car to be fun to drive, reliable, handle well, especially on the highway. I'm really interested in the AWD and how it effects the car's handling. You get my drift.
My plan is to give my LandCruiser to my wife, give her saab 9/5 to my daughter and get the "commuter" car for myself.
Thanks in advance to anyone with 325/ AWD experiences their willing to share.
-Jay
Thanks for the info on european car mag but that type of mag is not really my cup of tea. I do not get into the modification of car engines and what have you. (well, I might change the rims and tires but that is about it)
kdshapiro,
You mentioned something about automobile mag and it's 3 series review. I have yet to receive my first automobile mag and was wondering if you were referring to an older issue or the most recent issue which I might be getting soon.
Regarding your current dilemma, I concur with on of the other comments, you are comparing a Japanese "Sport Coupe" (one of the best FWD ones on the market as well) to a German "Sport Sedan", so there are a couple of variables that you might want to keep in mind.
1) Which 3-Series did you drive? That will have a fairly large bearing upon how one feels about a car. Currently, the 3-Series sedan can be had with essentially four grades of handling, with the 325i (non-SP) with 16" wheels having the least capability (standard (soft but capable) suspension, All-Season tires). The 330i (non-SP) is next in line with the upgraded (Sport) suspension and 17" wheels and All-Season tires, followed by the 325i SP (Sport suspension, 17" wheels and Performance Rubber) and finally the 330i SP (Sport suspension, 17" (or 18") wheels and Asymmetric (the rears are wider than the fronts) Performance Rubber. So, if you drove a 325i without the Sport Package, you drove a car that had a suspension that was identical to my 1999 328i, and while it was capable, I certainly wouldn’t want to Auto-X it on the weekends.
2) Having never driven the GSR, I can only comment on its suspension second hand. That said, it is my understanding that the GSR has a fairly "Screwed Down" suspension that offers considerably better handling that your run of the mill Integra, and the expense of some ride comfort and suspension travel (if I'm wrong about this, please don't shoot me, this information is second hand after all ;-)). The BMW on the other hand has been built to offer good handling and ride on roads (try a Paris cobble stone street that hasn't seen any repair since WWII) that require a lot more suspension compliance (travel) than the typical American or Japanese car was built to deal with. Upon their first drive, many folks used to the less compliant performance cars from Japan are deceived into thinking that because the ride is better in the BMW that the handling performance cannot possibly be there. It is only after realizing that not only are they able to take corners as fast as they could in their previous mount, but they are far more comfortable in the process that these folks realize just how magical the BMW suspension system really is.
At this point, it seems logical to me that you might want to take an extended test drive in a 330i SP and drive on roads that you are familiar with. Given that you will not be in-tune with the car just yet, you will probably not be able to drive as fast as you can in your GSR, then again, you probably weren't able to push your GSR as fast when you first got it either.
Based upon you user name and your last sign-off, are you an OS? I've been seeing a lot of one recently. :-/
I hope this helps.
Best Regards,
Shipo
My problem? Well,two things: both of which suggest that I was a bit premature in ordering the car. I have my doubts about the xi versus the i. The decision to go with AWD was something the salesman strongly suggested (I live in the Philadelphia area) and I sort of went with the flow. In the interim I have learned that the Sport Package (which I ordered) does not have the sport suspension and that DSC will probably suffice for most winter conditions up here. Sort of feel that I wimped out there.
The second thing - and here I am really opening things up - is that I have come to prefer the styling of the coupe, especially with the new facelift. There are other considerations there, and I am not totally sold on the switch, but suffice it to say that I have been doing some second guessing on a couple of fronts.
The question is what kind of a reception would a change of heart get at this point from the dealership? I know that I am legally on the hook for the deposit (hopefully no more than that), but would hope that they might not hold it against me if I still purchased from them (although getting them to do another order for me might be tough.
If it makes things easier, the model that I ordered is a beauty that should be in high demand: a pretty, conservative color and fully loaded. I would think the dealership would not have trouble unloading it.
Any thoughts/war stories on this would be appreciated. As I say, probably going to stay where I am with it, but want to know what my options are.
Thanks
My problem? Well,two things: both of which suggest that I was a bit premature in ordering the car. I have my doubts about the xi versus the i. The decision to go with AWD was something the salesman strongly suggested (I live in the Philadelphia area) and I sort of went with the flow. In the interim I have learned that the Sport Package (which I ordered) does not have the sport suspension and that DSC will probably suffice for most winter conditions up here. Sort of feel that I wimped out there.
The second thing - and here I am really opening things up - is that I have come to prefer the styling of the coupe, especially with the new facelift. There are other considerations there, and I am not totally sold on the switch, but suffice it to say that I have been doing some second guessing on a couple of fronts.
The question is what kind of a reception would a change of heart get at this point from the dealership? I know that I am legally on the hook for the deposit (hopefully no more than that), but would hope that they might not hold it against me if I still purchased from them (although getting them to do another order for me might be tough.
If it makes things easier, the model that I ordered is a beauty that should be in high demand: a pretty, conservative color and fully loaded. I would think the dealership would not have trouble unloading it.
Any thoughts/war stories on this would be appreciated. As I say, probably going to stay where I am with it, but want to know what my options are.
Thanks
Just to make sure you do it for the right reason, please keep in mind that if you order a 330ci, DSC will NOT be sufficient to keep your car under control when the "Slipperies" occur. I made a few forays out into the white stuff last December in my 530i SP before my winter wheel/tire set arrived (the wheels were on backorder), and the complete lack of grip that summer tires offer in the snow is not to be believed (I had a 328i with All-Season tires before the 530i, and it was sort of ok, but nothing compared to my 530i on "Snows"). That said, buying a set of winter tires will transform a RWD BMW into a car that is quite capable in snow up to a max of 5 or 6 inches (four if it is heavy and wet).
Keep us posted on what you do.
Best Regards,
Shipo
I suppose the issue (at least with respect to xi vs i) is whether I want to go through the hassle of a set of winter tires. This car will likely be the only one that I have (after a short transitioning period while I learn to drive a stick, I will probably give the old Honda to a friend ). So...one car --> two sets of tires/wheels if I go with RWD.
Of course, this same set of considerations is in place if I go with the coupe; perhaps even more so. I was talking to a co-worker yesterday who has the 323ci and she opened up her trunk to show me 100lbs of kitty litter (ballast) to get her through the snow. And she has a set of Bliztek (sp?) winter tires. She still complained about the low clearance of the car. The tires and kitty litter notwithstanding, the low profile can make navigating through a reasonable snowfall tough: the price for a nice, sexy, low profile I suppose.
Well, thanks again; if you have some strong thoughts as regards AWD vs rear wheel (at least with respect to the 330s), I would certainly welcome your input.
Stop vacillating. Sit down, think about it awhile for a day or two, make a decision, AND THEN STICK TO IT. After you've decided, don't second guess yourself or ask for more advice. Going in with a change is one thing, but you sure don't want to go in two weeks later and change again. Or worse, balking on the day of delivery. Dealers really get tired of these antics and with good reason.
As to your deposit: If you decide to change, whether your deposit is refundable is a legal matter. If you signed papers which say the deposit is non-refundable and if non-refundable deposits are legal in your state (many states they're either illegal or allowed only under very restrictive conditions) then you're at the mercy of the dealer. They'll probably be flexible and let you order another car, but they could be jerks, say "good riddance", and take your $1K. They may be hard-nosed, because the market flips in April and wants sports cars rather than AWD utility vehicles. The color and options you've ordered are also a factor - a silver car with premium package is a whole different resale animal from a leatherette striper in green. But, in general, most deposits are refundable by law and dealers try and keep your business, so they'll probably work with you to get you in the car you want to drive.
- Mark
I suppose the issue (at least with respect to xi vs i) is whether I want to go through the hassle of a set of winter tires. This car will likely be the only one that I have (after a short transitioning period while I learn to drive a stick, I will probably give the old Honda to a friend ). So...one car --> two sets of tires/wheels if I go with RWD.
Of course, this same set of considerations is in place if I go with the coupe; perhaps even more so. I was talking to a co-worker yesterday who has the 323ci and she opened up her trunk to show me 100lbs of kitty litter (ballast) to get her through the snow. And she has a set of Bliztek (sp?) winter tires. She still complained about the low clearance of the car. The tires and kitty litter notwithstanding, the low profile can make navigating through a reasonable snowfall tough: the price for a nice, sexy, low profile I suppose.
Well, thanks again; if you have some strong thoughts as regards AWD vs rear wheel (at least with respect to the 330s), I would certainly welcome your input.
sedanorcoupe: In Texas, they can't keep the $1000. I originally ordered my M3 from Momentum BMW and then changed my mind and went to BMW North. The refund was no problem. Get the car you want. Do not worry about changing your mind--you will have to live with the decision for some time and it will cost you about $15-20 dollars a day for the life of the vehicle--make sure you can say each day that the money was well spent.
seivwrig: just waiting for the Car Control course this weekend. see you there.
Going up and down hills, the car never once slid. Wheels never lost their grip and braking was incredible!
Been working lots of hours at NASA this past month, so sorry for disappearing!
-Paul
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2022 Wrangler Sahara 4Xe, 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD
1. I am going to use a forward-pointing wire brush with an electric drill to get rid of all the corrosion on the hub and surface of the rotor. Should I keep the wire brush away from the disks??
2. I want to use a very light coating of some anti-seize compound or grease on the hub to protect from rust in the future - what type of coating would you recommend for this?
I use regular old "High Temp Wheel Bearing Grease".
Best Regards,
Shipo
Crevels
I am now at my second order with BMW because they goofed in the first one after delivering the car with the wrong transmission. They asked for a second chance. I leave it up to you to judge their rotten and irresponsible service.
If you see in your vicinity a 03 Orient Blue 330xi driven by a smiling bearded sailor with a pipe and flammable breath, torn shirt and lot of 12 packs inside, with no plate on the outside, please hold on to it, and call BMW Canada, it may be mine.
According to BMW - "The 3 Series has had a banner year, winning an All-Star award for the eleventh time from Automobile Magazine, for Best Luxury Car Under $40,000, a "10 Best" from Car and Driver Magazine, as well as the thirteenth 10-Best Engine Awards for the 3.0 L engine found in the 330i, and the 3.2 L found in the M3, from Ward's Auto World."
I was assuming there was an article in order for Automobile to give them this award.
A couple of questions:
1. What experience do you have with gas mileage on the 330xi? I am currently just under 22 mpg, with a significant portion of highway driving. I don't drive slowly but I am not overly agressive.
2. I have a Valentine One...nice unit. I currently have the power cord run along the headliner and down the A pillar to the glove box auxilliary power outlet. Has anyone connected power supply to BMW wiring? I am leary of connecting to wiring...
Thanks,
Rich
If I did not need a 4-door sedan, I would probably be driving the Integra until it falls apart. (I do plan on taking it back home to the DC area) I was tired having a sore back after loading my 2 year old into the back of the 2-door coupe. If you need additional room and had to go for a 4-door variety, 3 series or the 5 would be near, if not at the top of the list.
sedanorcoupe: I have a 330ci SP and live in the Philly area. The summer tires aren't worth a damn in the snow and ice. You'll either have to buy a winter wheel setup or use a beater car. Personally, I suggest the beater car. The way I figure it, the greatest danger to my baby is some idiot who doesn't know how to drive in the wet stuff. At that point, I'd rather they smash into my 93 sentra than my baby with winter wheels.
Glenn
The worst gas mileage that I've had on the highway with very spirited driving is 22-23 mpg. 22 mpg in mixed driving sounds low. Do you spend a lot of time in traffic jams? Keep in mind that the 330xi would be ~ 300 lbs heavier than my car; more if you have the step.
I have a hardwired V1 with a concealed display and I am very happy with it. The installation took me 45-60 min but I am not very handy and everything seems to take me twice as long compared to the guys that are more mechanically inclined. It's worth the effort, esp. if you plan on keeping the car for a while.
My guess is that you should be getting at least 29 mpg at a steady 75 (my 1999 328i got more like 34-35), and 24 in mixed driving environment.
Best Regards,
Shipo
P.S.
I'm flying home tomorrow, St. Patricks Day, which for me starts in about 12 hours. Let's see, I start in a time zone that is GMT +8 and end in a time zone that is GMT -5, that means that my St. Patricks Day will last 35 hours. I wonder if they will serve Green Beer on the airplane. :-P
BTW, does anyone know the price tag for a fog light for 330i SP M-aero pkg? one of mine is broken, probably got hit by a stone.
thanks.