What model to Buy?

[magewulf]

Hello everyone,

I am the proud owner of a 1995 325i and I am looking to get into another car soon.

I have a budget of 5k and would really like a model (BMW) that is AWD and not just traction control. My 325i is a real pig in the snow even with snow tires and traction control, and as I live in utah, the winters can be brutal. I would like to find something that is from 1995-(as new as I can get) that is a AWD, not an SUV model, dependable and gets decent gas mileage.

What are some suggestions, and what are some things that should I beware of in my search? (Any models with known issues that will break the bank, etc.)

Thanks for all the help everyone and take care!

Shaun

[Rudolph320i]

for that you are probably looking at a 325xi e46

[joshdacruz9]

Hondas would be better suit you with such a low budget.

[pbonsalb]

2001 on E46 325xi but will likely exceed your $5k budget.

[EdirtySicks]

E30 325ix would be closer to your price range.


Buy a jeep

[pizzaman09]

Buy a jeep

If you are going to do this, don't get one with the quadratrac 4x4 system that doesn't have the 2wd option. I have that in my Jeep and it is a horrific mess on packed snow and ice. It is extremely skidish and unpredictable. It works great in deep snow but that is about it.

In your price range you are not going to find a BMW with AWD unless it's an e30. I would suggest looking at other brands like Subaru if you are set on AWD or get a big old FWD American sedan. I have an Oldsmobile 88 that will go through snow like you wouldn't believe. It is incredibly predictable, the relatively long wheel base helps keep it in line and the extra weight over the front driving wheels helps you get going easily. For anyone looking for a cheap rather nice winter beater, it's hard to beat. Even the most well taken care of, grandma owned, low mileage examples are under $5k.

[Crusher47]

FWD Nissan, Hyundai or Toyota as a winter beater.

[Filip75]

Shaun,

For 5K it's better to stay away from old bimmers. If anything goes wrong (and it will), you will need to spend more than that on the repairs.