Advice on a car

[Obsession]

Originally Posted by nko51

Forget about those cars you listed! Buy a toyota Camry!

I also have driven Toyota Camry and I had several accidents with that car and we sold it finally, but Toyota Camry doesnt give pleasure of driving BMW, the sounds of BMW seems like a song or melody to my ear, and the orange lights black leathers with nice and small look style are super, just buy BMW and take alllllll $ value that you pay back in the time that you use it and enjoy, believe me BMW will never disappoint you!!!

[diablojota]

Originally Posted by aykun325

These problems like Cdplayers volume control, navigator, drinking oil are at all BMWs or may be at all cars with the time and type of use it doesnt mean that all BMWs have the same problem, by the way I aggree yyou that after 2005 BMW spent less and new E90 disappointed me but with the E92 and E93 also E91 the quality and updates will come back. and which serie did you have E90, E46 or E..?

There is absolutely NO excuse for a car that costs 40k+ to have any of these issues. Toyota, Lexus, Acura, and several other manufacturers with cars costing the same do not give you these issues.
Mine was a 2005 BMW 320d (company car).

[Obsession]

at 2005 at first half of 2005 E46 and at second half E90 was produced, which one you had? you say 40k for this car and same car is 55000Euro in Turkey.

[kieran]

hi,greetings from ireland,the lexus is a fine car but why not try a deisel mercedes?

[President]

Originally Posted by kieran

hi,greetings from ireland,the lexus is a fine car but why not try a deisel mercedes?

Oh dear...

[Prince]

Originally Posted by President

Oh dear...

What's wrong with you? I know a guy that runs his Desoto off of pig poop!

Originally Posted by diablojota

After having a BMW 3 series I would say avoid it. Although if you can get it with a warranty still then it may be okay for a while.

Any car manufacturer can produce a car that falls short of expectations - doesn't matter who it is. Between my wife and I we have owned 5 BMW's and have enjoyed all of them. Are they the most reliable out there? Far from it. For us the pleasure that they give has been worth the generally minor problems that have come up. Of the 5 cars, one had more problems than the rest combined (my e39 540). Mainly electronics related, and I would say the only one with anything near "significant" problems. Certainly later models have more issues with electronics as more "stuff" is loaded into the cars.

Although opinions vary, I would not discount them, but I would also not own one without a warranty.

BTW - posting in reply to this to avoid fanboi discussions below.......

[ezmoney46]

I've had 6 honda's, 1 BMW 735i.... Had to rebuild the tranny at 108,000 miles, front end work, A/C in less than 3 years I put 6500 in her other than that the car was "the ultimate driving machine" NOT! Go Japanese you'll enjoy the extra cash in your pocket or in this case4 maybe a new Rolex on your wrist!!

[vh_bu98]

Originally Posted by nko51

Forget about those cars you listed! Buy a toyota Camry!

I actually thought about a Toyota Camry SE since a new one is about the same price as the 04 and 05 near luxury models that I have been looking at. Not to mention I actually like the new look of the Camry. My only concern is it may be too roomy. I like smaller cars.

From looking around, Acura, Infinity and Lexus are maintaining their value very well...too well and there are not as many available in comparison to the European models.

I was really surprise how many A4s are available for reasonable pricing. Is there something about the A4 that I should know about?

From doing research, I'll probably pass on the Saab and Volvo. Audi (at least the A4) and BMW seem to have a better reliability record. I need to do some test driving to really decide.

[RogerF]

Originally Posted by vh_bu98

I'm thinking about buying a car next month. A 2005 model since I'll let someone else deal with the depreciation. If anyone of you own one of these models, what's your opinion on it?

Acura TSX
Audi A4 2.0T
BMW 325i Sedan
Infiniti G35 Sedan
Lexus IS 300
Saab 9-3 Aero
Volvo S40 T5 Turbo

Reliability is a big issue since I drive about 500 miles/805 kms a week.

I have never had any probs with the german cars that I have owned in the past and present (heck I just bought a 2000 911 with 48,000kms on it) the main thing is to take care of any car you buy. With that being said I am going to have to agree with the ppl who say japanese cars are more reliable. Of the ones you have mentioned the Lexus would be the most reliable in my opinion. As much as I am not a fan of Toyota styling I feel that they make super reliable cars with the tightest interior builds. Next I would choose the TSX for the looks, reliability and it has better gas milage if that is a concern for you. The G35 Sedan, well its looks look like it was hit by a dozen ugly sticks. (this coming from a G35 coupe owner) the car has its fair share of recalls at the begining but is also very reliable, however cheap interior trim pieces and materials dont wear very well.


Just my $0.02

[vh_bu98]

Now it's November and I'm actually ready to buy now. Got my loan approved, so it's a matter of deciding on which one. The only one I have driven so far is the Audi A4 so I'm leaning towards that. What are your opinions on this list?

2005 Lexus IS 300

2006 Acura TSX
2006 Audi A4 2.0T

2007 Toyota Camry SE
2007 Toyota Camry SE V6

2008 Honda Accord EX Coupe AT
2008 Honda Accord EX-L Coupe AT
2008 Toyota Camry SE
2008 Toyota Camry SE V6

[betrezra]

I'm a car nut, and your car selection like a watch selection can do different things for you:

To me a toyota (infinity), or Honda (acura), or Datsun (lexus) do nothing for me.......... while'st very reliable (like a timex), I don't make the emotional connection as I do with my rollies :) or with the benz.

Sure the Rollies have a higher initial cost (like a benz or bimmer), and sure the Rollies require 5 yr costly tune-ups (like a benz or bimmer)....... but to some the extra expense is worth in ways that you either get or don't get.

I used to work with an old engineer who ran a spreadsheet on everything in his life..... heck his wife was low bid :).....

His non-emotional spreadsheet on car selection was purely Cents/Mile. He ended up with an Oldmobile.... and I'm sure it delievered the advertised XXcents/mile. And for him that was all that mattered.

I on the other enjoy the intangible aspects of automobile ownership...... the way it looks in the parking lot and on the road, and the number of times it makes me look back at it as I walk away ;)......

You must need to decide what kind of buyer you are...... cents/mile...... or raw HP..... or eco-friendly or ....... style..... or etc...

============
Eventually a 997TT will be MINE....... we all have dreams I guess.

[Launch Mini]

I like the above.
I break just about all my purchases into "Enjoyment Units"
How many EU's will I receive for my $ spent.
Some watches have high EU's, same with cars and other toys.
Maintenance costs come with the package and are factored in.
In the end, it is your personal choice.
BTW, the highest EU's for my vehicles has been the MINI COOPER. Sure it was in the shop a lot, but sooo fun to drive. My "bike" has now taken over. Totally impractical, but very high on the EU scale.

[vh_bu98]

I love to drive except when it's rush hour traffic. My 95 Honda Accord EX Coupe is still fun to drive even though it's only a 4 cylinder and only about 145 HP. I was hitting 100 mph on the highway today between clients.

And when I rented that A4 for a week, I had a blast up in BC. Nice acceleration and braking.

I test drove a IS 300 a few years ago and felt it was underpowered so I will probably cross that off the list. Still keeping an eye on those BMW's...very tempting...may have to test drive one as well.

Car buying does suck. Even though I think a Mini would be fun, it wouldn't be practical with it's small backseat and not much of a trunk. The other side of the coin is a Camry sedan seems too practical especially when I don't have any kids. And of course I don't want to spend more than $30k because a car is really just transportation when it comes down to it and it just depreciates and cost more money with each year.

[Paulie]

You should consider a Prius as well. Grab the key fob and drive it around. Should be plenty on the lots now days.

It's roomy, rear seats fold flat so great for hauling stuff, and very low maint costs (manual says change oil every 5k, rotate tires every 5k and replace the filters as needed. That's it!)

It's a great car, and if you can write off your mileage, a money maker as well; Operating cost is less the write off by very huge margin.

Got mine for 26k in late 04 (05 model) and with 67k miles on the odo, I could sell it for 16k without much trouble, trade in probably 12k. So not too bad.

There is more to say but don't want to say much as I'll be accused of being/spreading smug.

[gmt 16750]

While I don't know if it's still an option for you but the only car I can comment on in your 1st list is the Saab 9-3 aero as I own one (my other car is a volvo estate) - simply put: it's been the most reliable car I have ever owned and still has a little bit of oommph when needed.
Good luck with your choice.

[Carolina]

One of the Honda models.

[DS/B MINI S]

Originally Posted by vh_bu98

Car buying does suck. Even though I think a Mini would be fun, it wouldn't be practical with it's small backseat and not much of a trunk. The other side of the coin is a Camry sedan seems too practical especially when I don't have any kids. And of course I don't want to spend more than $30k because a car is really just transportation when it comes down to it and it just depreciates and cost more money with each year.

If you don't have kids you OWE it to yourself to test drive a MINI. I've had lots of different cars and the MINI ALWAYS leaves me with a smile on my face

Just don't drive the MINI Cooper S until you are READY to BUY

[DocD]

Without a doubt, the Acura TSX. My wife drives an Acura TSX and LOVES the car. She's driven BMW's and more exotic, expensive cars, but absolutely loves this car. I also recently purchased my daughter a new Honda Accord (for college) for it's safety and reliability. It's a great car, but no where near the "fun factor" or performance of the TSX.

The TSX is a fun, sporty and reliable car, and Acura/Honda is well known for it's engines. The TSX DEFINITELY has my vote, but YOU'VE got to test drive each car and know which car lights YOUR fire.

[vh_bu98]

Originally Posted by DocD

Without a doubt, the Acura TSX. My wife drives an Acura TSX and LOVES the car. She's driven BMW's and more exotic, expensive cars, but absolutely loves this car. I also recently purchased my daughter a new Honda Accord (for college) for it's safety and reliability. It's a great car, but no where near the "fun factor" or performance of the TSX.

The TSX is a fun, sporty and reliable car, and Acura/Honda is well known for it's engines. The TSX DEFINITELY has my vote, but YOU'VE got to test drive each car and know which car lights YOUR fire.

Did you buy your daughter the 07 or 08 Accord? And was it a coupe or sedan?

I may put the TSX back in the running since I may not have my existing Accord for very long.

[ejell]

I have an Acura TL and I don't think you could go wrong with that. Basically a souped up Accord!

[jpourteau]

Forget the Cars and get a HARLEY!

[Gaijin]

Originally Posted by jpourteau

Forget the Cars and get a HARLEY!

Now you are talking.

[vh_bu98]

I checked Cosumer Reports and purchased a CarFax subscription.

I got my list together from AutoTrader and I've got 19 cars to look at tomorrow.

2006 Audi A4 (10)

2005 BMW 325i (3)/2006 BMW 325i (1)
2005 BMW 330i (1)

2005 Infiniti G35 (2)

2005 Lexus IS300 (2)

2008 Toyota Camry SE v6 - only new one I'm interested in. Actually, I like the new 08 Accords Coupes as well but didn't see the point of owning another Honda. That's why I'm not going to look at the Acura TSX or TL either.

There seems to be a lot of Audis for sale in the Dallas area. I'm not sure if I should be concern or not. Anyways, if you own one of these cars, please give me your opinion on if you love it or if I'm about to make a huge mistake.

[S2000 Driver]

Originally Posted by vh_bu98

I checked Cosumer Reports and purchased a CarFax subscription.

I got my list together from AutoTrader and I've got 19 cars to look at tomorrow.

2006 Audi A4 (10)

2005 BMW 325i (3)/2006 BMW 325i (1)
2005 BMW 330i (1)

2005 Infiniti G35 (2)

2005 Lexus IS300 (2)

2008 Toyota Camry SE v6 - only new one I'm interested in. Actually, I like the new 08 Accords Coupes as well but didn't see the point of owning another Honda. That's why I'm not going to look at the Acura TSX or TL either.

There seems to be a lot of Audis for sale in the Dallas area. I'm not sure if I should be concern or not. Anyways, if you own one of these cars, please give me your opinion on if you love it or if I'm about to make a huge mistake.

Do yourself a favor -- avoid Audis at any cost.

I didn't and boy did I regret it!

As my mechanic warned me but I didn't listen:

Audi: Germany's Answer to the Edsel.

[vh_bu98]

Originally Posted by S2000 Driver

Do yourself a favor -- avoid Audis at any cost.

I didn't and boy did I regret it!

As my mechanic warned me but I didn't listen:

Audi: Germany's Answer to the Edsel.

What year and model is your Audi? I know they have a bad record before 2006, but things improved greatly with the latest generation...at least that's what the Consumer Reports indicated.

[S2000 Driver]

Originally Posted by vh_bu98

What year and model is your Audi? I know they have a bad record before 2006, but things improved greatly with the latest generation...at least that's what the Consumer Reports indicated.

As a car enthusiast for several decades now, I have seen Audi come back at roughly 10-year intervals and promote the idea that the reliability problems of their last generation of models have all been corrected -- it's

Audi is often praised in many of the car mags as great performers -- which they are for the first few years of ownership -- before significant premature mechanical failures begin. As a result, there are many 2+ year old, "bargain-priced," used Audis for sale -- watch out!

Every other car on your list is rock-solid. Choose any one of them and you will not be disappointed.

BTW, I don't mean to be rude to "betrezra" but he made a few factual errors in his post above that should be corrected:

o Lexus is made by Toyota -- not Datsun
The "Datsun" name was dropped quite a while ago in the US market when the company reverted to its global name, "Nissan".

o Infiniti is made by Nissan -- not Toyota

o Acura is made by Honda -- CORRECT!

[996]

My two favourite things are cars and watches.

We attend a lot of track days and I would like to do some competitive events next year.

Drive the cars first and then narrow your list down, as someone mentioned earlier buy a car which gives you the most joy whether thats just driving to work or taking a trip away.

I would always go for the BMW out of the cars listed but make your own decision once you have gotten a feel for the cars.

Good luck with your decision!

[S2000 Driver]

Originally Posted by 996

Drive the cars first and then narrow your list down, as someone mentioned earlier buy a car which gives you the most joy whether thats just driving to work or taking a trip away.

I would always go for the BMW out of the cars listed but make your own decision once you have gotten a feel for the cars.

Good post.

BMW is the best of the German high-end sedan bunch. Repairs are expensive but frequency of repair is not unusually high.

[vh_bu98]

Originally Posted by S2000 Driver

Good post.

BMW is the best of the German high-end sedan bunch. Repairs are expensive but frequency of repair is not unusually high.

I've narrowed it down to a 2004 325i and a 2005 IS300. I can't get them to budge on the price of the Lexus, but the BMW has some serious wriggle room.