Guru

I'm try to find a new car in the $23k range.

Found this bimmer
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.js...or=&cardist=16

How reliable are bmws?
It has high miles but do you think its worth it?

Crazy Bimmer

looks good to me. Get it checked out by a bmw dealer and find out its history.

BMWs depending how treated can last a long time.

mclarenf3387

In the NJ chapter, all the die hard BMW guys have old 3 series and they all have 150k+ miles on them, This and most of 'em use these cars as their daily drivers. Like Jesal said, if its taken care of it will last a long time.
The price sounds pretty reasonable. According to KBB its worth 27k from a dealer. Just run the history and if its clear, I say get it. You'll love the manual transmission in BMW's, they are probably one of the best in the industry. My dads 1987 325 is' tranny still feels better than most other cars out there (and even a lot of new cars) and it has 160k miles on it.

123456SPEED

I looked hard at the 330ci 5 speeds myself, mostly 01-03s. I couldn't justify the price. my reasons-
BMW---- older cars, more mileage, reliability issues, less features than my CLS, Less trunk and backseat room than my CLS. Less refined.

BMW +++ are body styling, nice! +++Handling - nothing better. +++holds value better.

I disagree about the BMW shifter, the CLS 6 is every bit as good or better, shorter shifts, more refined. The BMW is a 5 year old or more design, long shifts, sticks vibrate a lot.

Speed, the CLS is faster at every gear, esp first, huge difference IMO.

BMW has a bigger cool factor, but it will be in the shop more, cost more in repairs and maintenance.
I love the look of the 3 series coupe but the CLS offers me more for much less. Good luck, cool cars.

synth19

sounds pretty good...price is competitive

synth19

btw, what happened to your CL?

Crazy Bimmer

How is the 330 less refined?




Also it wouldnt be in the shop more if you take care of the car. Taking your car for maintance to the dealer after warrenty is over is dumb. IMO

There are other places to get work done on without paying the premium.

mclarenf3387

I've never driven the 6-speed so I couldn't compare but you must have driven a messed up BMW. Yea, the shift throw is a little long, but for around 200 bucks you can pick up a short-throw shifter and set it to how you want it plus it will make it feel better. My family has had multiple BMW's all sticks and all have great trans'. THe one you drove must have been messed cause most people who compare BMW manual trannies to other cars say it is better. Also, what does deign age have to do with how good a trans mission is?