How are the 3 series BMWs?

[Lightz39]

I am planning on having my "fun" with my Cruze while I finish my last year of schooling. Once I'm done that I plan on getting into a loaded 3 series BMW. I was wondering what people think of them? Worth the $55,000? Thats actually pretty cheap seeings how I have a friend with a mildly upgraded F150 for the same cost. (I'm not a truck person at all)

[Hoon]

I'd buy a CPO M3 over any 3 series variant, or pony up the extra 10K if possible.

BMWs require a lot of expensive maintenance, and the go fast parts are insanely over priced, but if you're ok with that they're great cars.

Do not buy a 335i without driving an M3. Yes, the 335i with a tune will be as fast or faster, but it falls short tremendously in other areas.

[blk88verde]

I'd buy a CPO M3 over any 3 series variant, or pony up the extra 10K if possible.

BMWs require a lot of expensive maintenance, and the go fast parts are insanely over priced, but if you're ok with that they're great cars.

My son bought a CPO 2010 328i 6M and he loves it. So he is now at a 60K service. He told me the dealer wants $500 to change the spark plugs!! He is holding off on that and will likely change the plugs himself (can get the 6 plugs for around $80) . To maintain the warranty he went with the dealer fluids and filters change - ran him around $850. With these cars you have to pay to play.

[20131pz69]

the cars are great, and you can find great performance (M3/ 335i) to a pretty average- seeming car with a BMW badge (yes they vary a lot, so check out the options at the dealer & drive them ..).
As has been stated, basic maintenance is v. expensive on these cars, so are tunes/ mods etc. overall you have to be wealthier than being able to just afford the purchase price alone.
Quite a few of my friends traded in their BMWs for acuras/ lexii after they realized what they would have to pay for their 1st service.

[blk88verde]

As has been stated, basic maintenance is v. expensive on these cars, so are tunes/ mods etc. overall you have to be wealthier than being able to just afford the purchase price alone.

My son at one time considered upgrading the intake and exhaust on his 328i. BMW offers performance parts that will keep the warranty, but if I recall he was talking more than $1500 for the exhaust and air box.

[Lightz39]

I wouldn't be doing any modifications to a car like this. Thats what the Cruze is for. As far as service goes don't they offer free servicing with their vehicles? I know lincoln and Cadillac do around here (canada). Or are you referring to more than just a tune up?

[blk88verde]

I believe the maintenance is free on BMW leased cars and I just checked the BMW USA site - Maintenance is free on new cars for 4 yrs/50,000 miles. My son has 65k on his car now.

[Lightz39]

Here in canada its 4 years 80,000km. Can be upgraded to 6 years 200,000km for about $2200. I live about 200km from my work and drive back and forth. 4 on 4 off. If I used the car to get to work I would definitely upgrade the package. Not to sure I would want to though. I may find an affordable used 4x4 for that.

Since I'm asking questions... Is there an advantage to leasing? I more than likely would trade it in for a new model down the road. Thats just how I am.