New poster: Newer 328 vs older 335

[egoodman8]

I plan on returning to BMW after a brief hiatus. I owned a 2011 335xi and loved it but decided to switch to a more sensible V6 Honda Accord when we had our first child. I seriously regret it and am figuring out whether to buy a 2012-2015 328 with 30-40K miles or a 2011 335 again with 50-70k miles. I'm thinking I will buy from CarMax so I can get a 5 year/100k warranty. Any thoughts about which to choose?

I loved the power of the 335 but I test drove a 328 and was still impressed. It will be my daily driver (~10k miles/year) and doesn't go on the highway much (we are in Virginia so I try to avoid going much over 80mph to avoid a reckless driving ticket). Wondering what people thought about the 2011 335 in terms of reliability between 50-125k mile range. Thanks in advance and I will let you know what I end up choosing!

I apologize in advance about the 328 vs 335 debate. I know it has been discussed to death. If someone could point me towards some RECENT threads on the subject I would appreciate it as well.

[Pelican Parts]

Hello and welcome to the forum! Both great cars, but I would go with the 328i. The 335i with the N55 is a great car, but the cost of ownership will be higher. As a DD the new 3 series are excellent cars, both reliable and easy on the MPGs. Just my 2 cents...Let us know if you have any questions or if we can help!

[TonyAngel]

The whole time I was debating getting into BMWs, I always had the thought of the 335i in the back of my mind because my cousin had one. Considering the price/performance/maintenance ratios, I went with an '06 325 for myself. Right after I got it, I immediately started looking into an upgrade path. For me, that path would lead to either a super charger kit or adding the 330i three stage manifold and software. Although I've pretty much decided to go the manifold route, I still haven't gotten around to doing it because, although the 325i is definitely no speed demon, I haven't really needed (although want is another story) more power. It's more than quick enough for negotiating traffic in the city and cruising in the triple digits on the highway when the need/opportunities arise is pretty effortless. My greatest joy in driving a BMW comes from the way it handles. Like no other car I've ever had.

Although I'd love to have a 335i, I think the 325i (or in your case the 328i) is definitely the bigger bang for the buck in terms of daily driver use. It's enough for occasional thrills and easier on the wallet in every aspect and it will still handle like, well, a BMW.

[Codes2]

I've had 4 bimmers.

My last was a 2010 328xi Touring w/ Sport setup.
It was very nice, very comfortable, very reliable. (except the expected coil packs)

We had twins which is why we went with this car.
Turns out, my wife's car is now the 'family car', so I sold my wagon.

I just bought a 2008xi coupe to start my mid-life crisis.
I know they not so reliable, with lots of gotchas.
All the same, I smile from the moment I get in it to the moment I get out.

So, depends on what the car will be used for, as well your personal prioritization of acceleration vs. reliability.

I wish you well.

[slides]

i have a 335 n54 and starting to look at getting a different car when the miles get up there. Currently at 59k, i have had it since 47k and already replaced HPFP, spark plugs, walnut blast, coils, and have a couple oil leaks. I feel that there are way to many sensors on these car. The negative battery cable which has a computer is $600 to replace when that fails and mine is throwing a code.

My plan is to get an e46 m3 after this, its simpler to work on and is reliable enough. Plus the e46 body style is my favorite.