328i or G35S - Help me decide

[eboettn]

This is my first post, but I have been on this forum reading for a few months now. I've learned a lot, so thanks!

So here is my question for you. I really want a 2009 E90 but am having difficulty justifying spending $43+ on a car at this stage of my life. In the end, I may end up buying it anyway (because that's what I want. period), but I need to play devil's advocate for a little bit.

I drive a 2002 WRX which I love, but I need something more "grown up." I want a BMW, and that's about it, but the 230 HP the 328i has doesn't really do anything for me. (On paper...I have yet to test drive any of these.) But for the same price, I can get a G35S with 300 HP.

IF you HAD to choose between a 328i or G35S...which would you pick. I know neither compares to the 335i, but let's keep that to a different post. Both have to be a manual and will keep to minimal options just because I don't really need / want most of them. The sports package on the BMW is mandatory for me.

Thanks in advance for the advice!

[markitzero]

Don't underestimate the 328. I have driven the G35S as a rental and while it had nice power that was about it, nothing else was spectacular about it. It didn't handle that well, the interior wasn't that great, wasn't especially good looking... it felt a lot like my mother's Honda Accord but with more power. The 328 by comparison has decades of pedigree. It is truly a spectacular machine in all aspects... power, handling, ride, everything. You are right, on paper it is hard to measure all of this. If you think it doesn't have the power to get up and go you are mistaken, sure a 335 would be great but the 328 will pull hard when driven so. I would suggest a trip to the dealer to drive both... I suspect your decision will be very clear after that.

[eboettn]

Thanks markitzero. I want to wait a few months before I can buy (to save some more $$$ for the down payment). That's the main reason I haven't gone to test drive one yet. If I do, I may leave with one, and I don't need to be doing that. Saving money is a good thing.

[jibaholic101]

i would go with the bimmer. but i would opt for the 335.

[CyberGypsy]

are you posting this on every BMW forum?

[02themax]

Sorry guys but G35 all the way... More power, more options (sport for sport), more room, more bang for buck and the list goes on. It was either a 335 or G35 for me. The 328 is nice but too slow for my liking. If I were in your situation I wouldn't even hesitate. Go test drive both sport models and make your OWN decision.

[Beer Goggles]

I'd say g37 which should be out shortly. It is a better value and sure it may not feel as nimble, it is a great car. I don't like the 4 Door at all though, so for looks I'd say 328 with the sport looks better.

[mryakan]

Buying a car is not necessarily always about the best deal or specs on paper, sometime you have to follow your heart. Test drive both then decide.

[LuvMyE92]

Either one will be a step-up from your Suby. Drive them both. When the salesman asks you to sign on the dotted line, tell them that you can't do it until the bankruptcy court settles your case. That should hold him off for a while. :D

You don't say how old you are. If you're young, you have plenty of time, don't sweat it. If you're not, then buy the BMW now while there is still life left to enjoy. ;)

Both are fine cars; the Infiniti is the better bargain. But I did that once, bought the Infiniti instead of the Bimmer to save $10K (it was M35 vs. 5 series). Regretted it every day. :(

If the power is a big deal for you, then save up for a few more months and buy the 335.

[luckywales]

I agree with mryakan.

I tested the G35S and the 335i. I found the former to have a nicer interior, but that was about it. It just didn't drive as "tightly" as the BMW. The shifter was vibrating, and the steering was numb. Also I found the steering wheel itself to be too big.

However, my alternate was the 335i - which I ended up getting. I have driven a 328i, and found it to have no guts. Why not a barely used E90 330i? I think you can get some great deals on them...

[shifterkart33]

I don't get the G35 has more room comment. I couldn't fit in one. The Infiniti salesman said, "it has the same leg room as a BMW 3 series." I don't think so. I had an e46 and now an e90, they both have significantly more legroom.

[Bandit335]

You said you want to spend around $43k. The MSRP price on a 2009 335 sedan with premium, sport, cold weather, metallic paint, including destination is $46,225. The dealer should without any hesitation discount 7% so that brings it down to $42,989.25 I wouldn't be surprised if you got them to discount even more. You can get it even cheaper if you decide to do away with some of the options I listed. Of course you can inflate the price and add all kinds of stuff, which won't make the car drive any different and get up to $50k. So if you really wanted the 335 power along with the reputation of driving the widely known and voted best all around car in the world, then you would do the math and be able to buy the car of your dream within your price range. So maybe you'll have a few less bells and whistles. If you want a Japanese car then go to an auction and buy a few months old G35 for half off and that MAYBE will make up for the sorrow and regret you will feel for not buying a 3 series.

[Bandit335]

BTW our input and bias is meaningless anyhow. You will do whatever you feel is best. You don't need our input you need to get your ass in these cars and drive for yourself.

[Beer Goggles]

You said you want to spend around $43k. The MSRP price on a 2009 335 sedan with premium, sport, cold weather, metallic paint, including destination is $46,225. The dealer should without any hesitation discount 7% so that brings it down to $42,989.25 I wouldn't be surprised if you got them to discount even more. You can get it even cheaper if you decide to do away with some of the options I listed. Of course you can inflate the price and add all kinds of stuff, which won't make the car drive any different and get up to $50k. So if you really wanted the 335 power along with the reputation of driving the widely known and voted best all around car in the world, then you would do the math and be able to buy the car of your dream within your price range. So maybe you'll have a few less bells and whistles. If you want a Japanese car then go to an auction and buy a few months old G35 for half off and that MAYBE will make up for the sorrow and regret you will feel for not buying a 3 series.

I think my sticker was 44k, but I'm not one to want bells and whistles. 6MT Sport, IPOD maybe some other option I don't remember.


But I think many here are suffering "I own it syndrome" the G37 coupe is a really nice car, good looking and handles really well. All the parking lot "racers" here seem to think because the steering is lighter and quicker it handles better.


the G37 coupe wasn't out when I was getting my car, it would have been much harder of a decision if there was a car that is about 8k cheaper that is almost as good...and yes I do feel the BMW is better but there is something to be said about getting 9/10 and paying 9/10.

[Bandit335]

I think the price comparison is correct between a G35 and 335 and not a 328. I'm pretty sure that a modest 328 should be lower priced or at the same level. Don't forget the depreciation and demand is much better for the 3 series. The bias comes from an owning and driving experience. I had owned a few new nice Japanese cars in my life and I'm not likely to make that mistake again.

[Bandit335]

One last thing I have to mention about the Japanese cars. I recently read an article which I agree with that stated that if Japanese cars where as stiff as the German cars, their suspension would not last two years.

[Stealthauto]

Though I do love BMW's, the G35 is a well-made car and is very fun to drive. If you're comparing a 328 to a G35, I personally suggest the G35 :)

Aaron Schoenberger

[Beer Goggles]

One last thing I have to mention about the Japanese cars. I recently read an article which I agree with that stated that if Japanese cars where as stiff as the German cars, their suspension would not last two years.


Don't believe what you read...I had a 350z and the suspension was fine after 3 years. Stiffness has nothing really to do with longevity. It's hard to argue that most Japanese cars have higher resale, and last longer. The stats are out there.

Some people confuse dollar amount with % residual.

[Bandit335]

Don't believe what you read...I had a 350z and the suspension was fine after 3 years. Stiffness has nothing really to do with longevity. It's hard to argue that most Japanese cars have higher resale, and last longer. The stats are out there.

Some people confuse dollar amount with % residual.


The average Japanese car could not withstand the stiffnessf or as long as a BMW if it were as stiff. A stiff car has to be that much better and stronger built to withstand the shaking from uneven roads so it has everything to do with longevity. I would like to see any car with a better % resale value than a 3 series. I'm sure the G35 isn't it, and if it is they can keep it along with their thin aluminum can-like body. Overall, the 3 series is just an unbeatable value all around.

[TuRtZiLLa]

I had a 350Z and drove a G35.... BMW FTMFW

I wont look back!

[Beer Goggles]

The average Japanese car could not withstand the stiffnessf or as long as a BMW if it were as stiff. A stiff car has to be that much better and stronger built to withstand the shaking from uneven roads so it has everything to do with longevity. I would like to see any car with a better % resale value than a 3 series. I'm sure the G35 isn't it, and if it is they can keep it along with their thin aluminum can-like body. Overall, the 3 series is just an unbeatable value all around.

I don't really agree at all, here is some resale value for 2006, I chose not to look at 2007, and if I find earlier I'll post that because "projecting" resale isn't the same as what the market actually is

Here's a link

http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/list/top10/115129/article.html

Here is the text for the click lazy, and notice M3 isn't the same as a 3-series.

f you're looking to purchase a new car, you'll probably want one that won't lose too much of its value to depreciation. Well, potential buyers, take note: With resale value in mind, we've compiled this list of the 10 cars likely to depreciate the least during ownership. Included is the percentage of its original value that each vehicle is likely to retain after five years with an annual mileage of 15,000. Our residual value percentages are based on each car's national True Market Value (TMV®) price plus typical options and destination charge. Rankings and figures are updated monthly.

1. 2006 Honda S2000 (http://www.edmunds.com/used/2006/honda/s2000/index.html) — 51.7%

2. 2006 Mini Cooper (http://www.edmunds.com/used/2006/mini/cooper/index.html) — 51.5%

3. 2006 Acura TSX (http://www.edmunds.com/used/2006/acura/tsx/index.html) — 47.7%

4. 2006 BMW M3 (http://www.edmunds.com/used/2006/bmw/m3/index.html) — 47.6%

5. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (http://www.edmunds.com/used/2006/mercedesbenz/slclass/index.html) — 47.0%

2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG (http://www.edmunds.com/used/2006/mercedesbenz/slk55amg/index.html) — 47.0%

7. 2006 Infiniti G35 (http://www.edmunds.com/used/2006/infiniti/g35/index.html) — 46.9%

8. 2006 Acura RSX (http://www.edmunds.com/used/2006/acura/rsx/index.html) — 46.5%

9. 2006 Lexus SC 430 (http://www.edmunds.com/used/2006/lexus/sc430/index.html) — 46.5%

10. 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STI (http://www.edmunds.com/used/2006/subaru/imprezawrxsti/index.html) — 46.4%

[Beer Goggles]

If you'll notice the high percentage of JDM in that list.

But I tried to look up KBB values for 2004 (the first model year for the coupe G35) and compared a 330 to a g35 coupe.

The KBB price is 24,500 for the G35 and 25,500 for the BMW, which if you know math the BMW is a more expensive car and technically a lower % of the value of the car.

So unlike what some BMW drivers feel, in the long run the JDM is a better car. They are know to last and have less problems...proven in just about all forums of surveys. And I own a 335, but I'd never want to buy a 5 year old one.

But if an individual wants to feel like it's better, there really is no arguing. I own the one that I say is worth less over 5 years and more of a risk. Emotion sometimes gets in the way of logic :)

[Bandit335]

If you'll notice the high percentage of JDM in that list.

But I tried to look up KBB values for 2004 (the first model year for the coupe G35) and compared a 330 to a g35 coupe.

The KBB price is 24,500 for the G35 and 25,500 for the BMW, which if you know math the BMW is a more expensive car and technically a lower % of the value of the car.

So unlike what some BMW drivers feel, in the long run the JDM is a better car. They are know to last and have less problems...proven in just about all forums of surveys. And I own a 335, but I'd never want to buy a 5 year old one.

But if an individual wants to feel like it's better, there really is no arguing. I own the one that I say is worth less over 5 years and more of a risk. Emotion sometimes gets in the way of logic :)

The 3 series is always near the top as well and I remember that JD Power & Assoc had it at the top a few years ago. I believe the M3, the Mini, and G37 are among the top 10 in 2008 by Edmunds. Regardless, you drive a 335 and not an Infiniti, and I'm sure you don't regret making that decision.

[Sunny D]

I had a 04 G35 and loved it...I'd have to go with the G35S...

[jmmg]

I just traded in my brand new 08' Honda Accord V6 271 hp/ 254 lbs. tq for a new 328i sedan. Less power and similar luxury. But if I have to explain to you that why I return to the German instead of the Japanese. Then you should not be in this forum-------> No matter how well and how powerful a Japanese car, they are no "German". Reliable, Yes. Driving sensation and driver and car connection, No! IMHO. Case example. My ffriend traded in his brand new NISSAN GT-R back to a Audi R8. My formaer boss tradeded his brand new Infiniti FX toa X6, so you think they don't know thing or two about car and driving?

[Black335xi]

FNG - so be kind.

My wife has a G35 and I thought it was the best thing since sliced bread.

Today I got my 335xi - drove it up from CT - I can not stop grinning.

I was looking at first at the 328 until i found out the 335 had 100hp more - full stop, end of story

Her G35 is also rated at 300 and i can tell you the 335 is much faster and tighter overall.

[jmmg]

Check this out http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparison_test/sedans/2007_infiniti_g35_sport_vs_2007_bmw_328i_compariso n_test

[Bonds 25]

I personally like the G35.....but I get the feeling there was no care in building the car....I like to think the BMW goes down the assembly line with workers who take pride in what they are building...while I sense the G35 gets whiped down the line and put together by robots...while this may all be bullshit...and Im sure it is...its the way I feel when I sit in both cars...The 328i is a very nice car overall...the twin turbo 3.0 liter is the reason I dont own one. So, if it came down to only the G35 and 328i....personally...dude its a BMW....Maybe their robots are better.

[MiniDude824]

Japan Builds Evil Empire Cars. BMW FTW

[fwmcb]

Hey, I was considering the G37 Coupe. Although it looks competitive on paper, it just doesn't fit the bill for me. I'm 6'2" so I couldn't find a comfortable driving position where my neck isn't cramped. Also, for this year in Canada, the pricing on the 335 has shifted and the difference between two equally equipped cars is negligible. So, it was a no brainer... I ordered the 335! Which feels quicker, more refined and need I say has a much more impressive engine note!

[Hamann3]

I was in you boat exactly. I chose the 328.

328 with zsp sport:
6spd manual is not nearly as much of a dog as many suggest. (add a 3.63 diff and its pretty quick off the digg/def in the 5's 0-60)
Pro's:
Confidence inspiring handling/feedback
Brake feel
Manual tranny feel
0.9% financing over 12-60/mo purchase term
36 month comprehensive maintenance
Styling longevity (BMW precedent 5yr facelift 7yr redesign)
Engine refinement (especially at W.O.T.)
BMW pedigree
Cons:
Bland/spartan interior design/style (But, i love its minimalist appeal)
Horse Power/Tq
dollar per HP
Difficult to add aftermarket head unit.

G35s
Quick car with competitive features and performance for the price.
Pro's:
Competent handling
Overall power
Value per dollar
LSD
Cons:
Engine feels like its working hard at high rpm (not as refined overall)
more road noise at highway speed
Interior feels like a Nissan (Someone will flame me for this)
(X-factor) Not a BMW. You know how it feels when you drive/own one....connected
Clunky manual tranny

GL with your decision. Both are really great drivers cars. It is just a matter of what you are looking for.

[Beer Goggles]

The VQ engine won Engine of the Year for like 5 years or something...and the new G37's engine is a nice improvement.

Bottom line is drive what you like and leave the "what other people think about the car out of it"

If the G37 Coupe was out when I got my car it would have made my decision tougher. But I really liked the look of the coupe and the power of the 335, so that's what I wanted. I didn't care if other people (that BMW factor that people talk about) don't like my car or like it. I got it because when I drove it I liked it, and when I look at it I like it.

[shifterkart33]

A friend just bought a used 2005 G35. After a short drive, I don't see how anyone can compare the G35 to a 328i or 335i. They're not in the same ballpark.

The only thing the G35 has going for it is price. They're cheap and plentiful, i.e. resale value doesn't look so good.

JMHO.

[ralmeida]

The only real, substantive beef I have with the G35 is its lousy gas mileage. I do about 90 hwy miles a day and am averaging 27.3 mpg since I bought my car in April. The G is rated at like 21 hwy, unacceptable for my needs.