Now or Later?

[Gyroball]

Hi - I'm considering buying my first BMW. I have my eye on a 335i with XDrive. Test drove it a few weeks ago and...wow!

However, there's no real rush on my end, and I'm wondering whether I should just wait for the new model to come out. The .9% APR is nice, and of course if I wait I'm missing out for another 18 months or so (?), but I'm cautious and want to make the best decision possible. Would hate to plunk down $50K or so only to have the car look dated in a year and a half...

I'm also considering the A4, but think that in the end I'll end up with the 3 Series.

Your thoughts?

[mryakan]

It won't look dated in a 1 1/2 years. Heck the e36 still doesn't look that dated. You can't beat the deals now. Who knows what the F30 335xi would cost, but one thing for sure, it will have a high APR when it comes out.

[jbur074]

i dont think even early 2000 model BMWs look dated. i believe BMW has always made some of the best looking cars on the road for the longest time. however i believe (in the earlier years) BMW really lacked in the interior for such a high dollar car. but they have really stepped that up.

if your worried about a car looking outdated in 3 years, you might as well lease a car for a year or 2 and just swap. the industry changes designs like every 3 years.

personally the new e9xs are some of the sexiest cars BMW has made yet.

[love2xlr8]

I say go for it now. If it's financially feasible, why wait? I have an '07 335i coupe so I know there have been a few upgrades in this model since. You will be getting a great car and the A4 pales in comparison. On the other hand, I'm really not in the know about whether BMW plans on reconfiguring the 3 series anytime in the next 1-2 years. Would be nice to know.

[Gyroball]

Thanks everyone. One add'l question: what about the 328i compared to the 335i? Am I right to be concerned that a 328i with xDrive would feel sluggish? Of course I will test drive, but wondering from your experiences.

And what about the love from Car and Driver for the S4 over the 335i?

[bluewater328]

i think it depends what type of driver you are. 328i has got power when you need it, but it's not at the top of the heap. but if you mainly commute during traffic and such, you won't be missing much. The 335i is a great power car, but its up to you whether its worth the price. For me, I chose the E90 328i. Could have waited for the next gen, but I like the looks better on this one (yes, personal preference) and the engine is one of BMW's tried and true. I also figured that being a last year model that most of the issues would have been worked out (low finance rates help as well). 335i still has a relatively new engine...but it's a matter of deciding what you value. If price isn't the issue, and you're getting rid of the car in 5 years, i'd definitely say 335i. And to be fair, I know tons of 335i drivers who haven't had a single problem. but if you're just a cruiser or commuter, then maybe the 328i -- the styling is the same and most creature comfort options are the same.

for me part of it too, was that my previous car was a 2002 Nissan Sentra SE-R. Great car that I bought when it first came out. Nice torque out of a 2.5L engine...that had not been put through its paces. Lots of fun to drive but I was riddled with issues at the dealership. I told myself I wouldn't buy a first-year model again...so I went to the last year hahaha.

of course, this is only my opinion and i'm sure many have excellent counterpoints to all of them. your own experiences and opinions may vary :)

[BSmoothM5]

Buy it now! The first year of a new model is always the worst. The second year includes extra additions usually for free to intice more people to buy.

There is no way you are considering a BMW turbo-six and then dropping down to the A4's turbo-four. That will be a noticable difference.

[Gyroball]

I test drove both cars the same day. Yes, the difference is noticeable. But, I'm not a "driver" per se, thus my interest in the 328i and whether it is more appropriate for me. But after driving the 335i, I could certainly be convinced to evolve into a "driver".

This'll be "daddy's car", so I don't want to compromise!

Your point about a new model is well taken. Should I then be concerned about the new engine in the 2011 335i?

Been trying out options on the web site and received a really good quote from my dealer. 95% of the way there! Need to settle on either black or space gray...

[floydr]

Your point about a new model is well taken. Should I then be concerned about the new engine in the 2011 335i?

Been trying out options on the web site and received a really good quote from my dealer. 95% of the way there! Need to settle on either black or space gray...

Don't worry about the new engine - the problem still is the fuel pump and software.

Space Gray all the way IMO.

[shazzy04]

Don't worry about the new engine - the problem still is the fuel pump and software.

Space Gray all the way IMO.


Agreed, Space Gray btw. good luck. :stickoutt

[Gyroball]

Thanks.

I've read a bit about the HPFP, but assumed that the issue has been fixed. If I order and get a car built could I potentially experience the issue?

That is, have they fixed it yet, or are they simply replacing a component with faulty engineering with the same component on the hope that the issue won't replicate?

[sickem]

Thanks. I've read a bit about the HPFP, but assumed that the issue has been fixed. If I order and get a car built could I potentially experience the issue? That is, have they fixed it yet, or are they simply replacing a component with faulty engineering with the same component on the hope that the issue won't replicate?

it has not been fixed, so absolutely. I believe they replace it with a slightly different pump, but there are still issues. I wouldn't let it deter you from buying the car you want, however...might be a bit of a minor annoyance but after having a 335i as a loaner once, it would be worth the risk to me!!!

I love my 328i, but I must admit that I have 335i envy! The 328 can be a bit sluggish at times, particularly with the AT in D mode (probably more of a complaint about the tranny). DS mode is much more responsive and fun. Really just comes down to personal preference. If you drove both but were happy with the 328, then save some $$ and dealer trips and go with the 328 over the 335.

As for waiting, I would say get an E9x, enjoy the good financing and lower price, and then get an F3x after all of the problems are fixed and the demand levels out.

[Gyroball]

Thanks everyone - I really appreciate your advice and opinions!

[Radman981]

Thanks everyone. One add'l question: what about the 328i compared to the 335i? Am I right to be concerned that a 328i with xDrive would feel sluggish? Of course I will test drive, but wondering from your experiences.

And what about the love from Car and Driver for the S4 over the 335i?

I have the 328xi and I can assure you that when you drive it in DS mode it is NOT sluggish...as other posters have said it really depends on your driving style...and lets not forget...if you have a 335i you are more inclined to drive at high speeds...better invest in a good radar detector!

Compare to an Audi A4? Not even a worthy comparison. When I was shopping for cars I drove a lot of vehicles, Audi, infinity, Lexus. The closest was the infinity G37 but I felt it was made like crap. The BMW is a VERY solid car and drives that way. Just a thought...just close the door on a 3-series..feel how solid it feels when it closes....I feel like I am getting into a nimble tank. :redspot

[Gyroball]

Thanks everyone. I bought the 335i with xDrive tonight. Black Dakota leather, Black Sapphire paint, Premium Package, iPod/USB, HK sound system, and split rear seat. MSRP of $50,300, but paid a final price of $46,695 (with the $1,500 rebate).

Can not wait!

[Tradeup]

Very nice. Congrats.
Black on black looks great. What color interior trim?

[Gyroball]

Sorry for the delay - got the dark burl trim.