BMW 318Ti

[CBFryman 2]

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_...&cardist=89

The girl likes this car. It's no ///M series but it'll do for her. Her uncle is fronting her a lot of cash towards a new car for a graduation present. She needs/wants something with high gas mileage that is comfortable, reliable, and relatively cheap to fix when/if needed. Her uncle wants something that is decently quick (compared to her 4cyl '89 Camry) and that is rear wheel drive though he is open to quick FWD cars. I want something with decent miles. This is getting on the high side for me but what can I say, we've been on the hunt for 2 months and this is one of the few that is meeting all criteria. The carfax checks out with only one owner before the dealer it is at now. It is a 5 speed and she doesn

[Tirefryr 1,742]

What's your idea of "relatively cheap to fix?" It's definately not going to be a BMW. Even a "cheap" Bimmer is expensive.

As for the mileage, assuming it's been taken care of, you should easily get another 60-70K out of that with no major problems. The Germans are great engineers and the Bavarian Motors are are exceptional example.

[///M5 2,833]

What's your idea of "relatively cheap to fix?" It's definately not going to be a BMW. Even a "cheap" Bimmer is expensive.

Cheaper than your tore ass Ryan. Web parts are real conservatively priced for that car, WAY cheaper than honduh parts.

However, I will preach that real service records are a prerequisite for any bm'er purchase to me. When done the car has been meticulously maintained which really helps. On the same note, a straight six car will be more reliable as well as cheaper to service. You are also more likely to find a cherry as they were more expensive to begin with and usually upkept better as well. I'd look for a 328 instead, even though for a four banger that is an impressive car.

Oh, bad color for resale as well...

Definitely better than the other options though.

[Tirefryr 1,742]

Don't get me started on that toreass. Worthless moneypit.

[CBFryman 2]

How about the gearbox? Has anyone driven a lower end BMW with a 5 speed gearbox?

When shifting in my truck the movement is long and you have to hit right or it will grind/hesitate. She doesnt like driving my truck. The clutch is also kinda heavy and doesnt have smooth engagement IMO.

[Adrian_D 520]

compacts and trucks are 2 very diffrent beasts.

how hard is it to go for a test drive ? or she's buying without trying ?

[CBFryman 2]

It's over an hour's drive away.

[Adrian_D 520]

i bought the jeep from 26 hours away.

[///M5 2,833]

How about the gearbox? Has anyone driven a lower end BMW with a 5 speed gearbox?

When shifting in my truck the movement is long and you have to hit right or it will grind/hesitate. She doesnt like driving my truck. The clutch is also kinda heavy and doesnt have smooth engagement IMO.

That is one of the easiest driving 5 speeds made.

[Aaron Clinton 2,372]

Its a decent little car, a friend had one for a long time. Not fast by any means but got it done.

[helotaxi 46]

SOLD

...and no I didn't buy it.

[CBFryman 2]

Yep. Sold the day before we where going to go have a look.

Thanks for the help guys. We are still on the hunt.