Posted May 5, 200718 yr http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_...&cardist=89The girl likes this car. It's no ///M series but it'll do for her. Her uncle is fronting her a lot of cash towards a new car for a graduation present. She needs/wants something with high gas mileage that is comfortable, reliable, and relatively cheap to fix when/if needed. Her uncle wants something that is decently quick (compared to her 4cyl '89 Camry) and that is rear wheel drive though he is open to quick FWD cars. I want something with decent miles. This is getting on the high side for me but what can I say, we've been on the hunt for 2 months and this is one of the few that is meeting all criteria. The carfax checks out with only one owner before the dealer it is at now. It is a 5 speed and she doesn
May 5, 200718 yr What's your idea of "relatively cheap to fix?" It's definately not going to be a BMW. Even a "cheap" Bimmer is expensive. As for the mileage, assuming it's been taken care of, you should easily get another 60-70K out of that with no major problems. The Germans are great engineers and the Bavarian Motors are are exceptional example.
May 5, 200718 yr What's your idea of "relatively cheap to fix?" It's definately not going to be a BMW. Even a "cheap" Bimmer is expensive.Cheaper than your tore ass Ryan. Web parts are real conservatively priced for that car, WAY cheaper than honduh parts. However, I will preach that real service records are a prerequisite for any bm'er purchase to me. When done the car has been meticulously maintained which really helps. On the same note, a straight six car will be more reliable as well as cheaper to service. You are also more likely to find a cherry as they were more expensive to begin with and usually upkept better as well. I'd look for a 328 instead, even though for a four banger that is an impressive car.Oh, bad color for resale as well...Definitely better than the other options though.
May 5, 200718 yr Author How about the gearbox? Has anyone driven a lower end BMW with a 5 speed gearbox? When shifting in my truck the movement is long and you have to hit right or it will grind/hesitate. She doesnt like driving my truck. The clutch is also kinda heavy and doesnt have smooth engagement IMO.
May 5, 200718 yr compacts and trucks are 2 very diffrent beasts.how hard is it to go for a test drive ? or she's buying without trying ?
May 5, 200718 yr How about the gearbox? Has anyone driven a lower end BMW with a 5 speed gearbox? When shifting in my truck the movement is long and you have to hit right or it will grind/hesitate. She doesnt like driving my truck. The clutch is also kinda heavy and doesnt have smooth engagement IMO.That is one of the easiest driving 5 speeds made.
May 7, 200718 yr Admin Its a decent little car, a friend had one for a long time. Not fast by any means but got it done.
May 10, 200718 yr Author Yep. Sold the day before we where going to go have a look. Thanks for the help guys. We are still on the hunt.
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.