I'm just curious to see what everyone had before their first 3 series..

I had been wanting a BMW as long as I can remember but could not justify it for one reason or the other so I drove a "reliable" Toyota for many years. As it is I am finally at a point in my life where I felt I can reasonable say it's time..and it's been a great ride (literally...) ever since..

I'm truly a "newbie" but learning fast..my brother-in-law and various friends have been in the Bimmer realm for years and now I know what they have been enthusing about all these years!

So..just out of curiosity...what were your reasons for getting your 1st BMW 3 series (circa 2006 +) and what did you drive before?

I'm in an lease for an Audi A4 2.0T. It's a nice car, a little less power than the 328 but more low-end torque because of the turbocharger. But I didn't really want to keep it after the lease ended, and the lease ends too soon to get one of the new A4s.

So in my search for a 6MT, I visited BMW, and once I drove the 335i, I had to have it!!! Then I learned of European Delivery, and all is done :)

Used to drive the Saab 9-3 and after test driving the 328i, it was over. Sure there's the difference between a car that's six years old to one that is brand new but the power and control just blew me away. Probably a BMW driver for life now.

The engine made me decide to go for it, and maybe the weight distribution/rwd bias of x drive.
Drove and A6 4.2 before.

Well, I am still pregnant as my 335xi is crossing the Atlantic at the moment. The other options I considered were the 328xi and the G35x with sport package. The 328xi was obviously nice, but was too slow for my taste. I had a difficult time deciding between the G35x and the 335xi as the G35 felt every bit as fast, was a little larger (I haul my kids alot), and about $8k less for comparably equipped car. The three advantages that put the 335 ahead for me were the handling felt far more stable (even though ultimate grip is similar), the 335 is more refined (especially interior materials and NVH) and the 335 is available with a manual transmission. I actually decided against the 335 after an experience with a big headed sales manager who informed me that they would do me the favor of selling the 335 at sticker and not mark it up higher as the magazines have suggested. He did not even consider countering my offer and acted offended that I compared an Infiniti to a BMW. One of my in-laws (who has bought 2 BMWs from this dealership) heard of this and called the associate they dealt with. The day that I planned to sign on the G35x, the other associate called and offered to accept my original offer if I could come up $300. The rest is history.

Our other cars are an Infiniti FX35 and a C6 Corvette Convertible. The 335xi will replace a Ford SVT Focus as my daily driver. I have a feeling the Corvette may not always be the fair weather, kid free preference in the near future!

My last car was a 530i (E39); I didn't drive anything else. What did it for me is probably an odd-ball thing: the inclusion of fold-down seats in the E92 provides a car whose looks I like that will accommodate my bicycle.

My last vehicle was a Yukon. Before that, I had a 5.0 Mustang. And before that, I had a 5.0 Mustang. And before that, I had a 5.0 Capri......oh well, you get the idea.

I typically keep a vehicle for about 5 years. I've always wanted a Porsche or a BMW since I was a kid (I'd not mind a Maranello either but that's lottery material).

Still, to be a good shopper I test drove Infiniti, Audi, and M-B, and there was still no comparison. Seems I've been right all along :-)

My sig has my last car. I bought that one new in 1993 and was the only owner until I traded it in last March on the 335i Coupe.

Prior to that I drove a 5.0L Mustang LX for 3.5 years. Prior to that, I was pretty broke, so I drove whatever I could afford! ;)

The 335i is a step down from the power and sleek styling of the Supra (it would turn heads just about everywhere I went), but the Supra was getting sloppy and I needed a new car. The BMW was the top choice, followed by the G35. I might have considered up a C6 Z06 convertible, but I didn't want to wait the time required to build up some cash ... and did I really want to drive an American car? I decided I didn't.

I test drove a Saturn Sky -- waaaaay too small. But a fun car, nonetheless.

I would have considered the Audi RS6, but the budget thing came up again. :)

I went from a rear wheel drive Toyota MR2 to a front wheel drive Acura CL-S. I really liked the step up to entry level luxury of the Acura, but didn't like to torque steer. Got back to a rear wheel drive and love both the luxury, torque and rear wheel drive of the BMW!

My last car was a 1997 BMW M3, I miss that car. Too many problems though! No more forced induction for me.

Black 05 Nissan Altima SER. Wanted all wheel drive and silver, and Ive always loved beemers. 335's are fast as hell. Im sorry I have to laugh at the comment above referring to the 335 being a step down in sleek styling compared to a supra. I respect supra's ENGINE AND UNDESRUCTABLE TRANNY, but that is it. The rest of the car is disgusting

We got out of an RX8--nice car --too many problems.
We drove a G37 and a E90 328i manual back to back.
The G37 was fun but a little to pseudo high tech interior for me.Plus, the clutch release point was right at the end of travel making a less smooth car to drive.
The E90 was completely different. Had never driven a BMW before but have owned several Boxsters. Felt right at home immediately. Great brakes, smooth engine, easy to drive, nice interior, very balanced handling. It fit like a glove.
end of story..

Befitting answer to both:
Another 3 series (e36) for 10 years :D

335i 6MT Sport. Why? Handling and road feel; power and control...a thing of beauty.

Before? 1999 BMW 328i Manual - no sport but still unbelievably fun to drive.

My first car was a 1969 Datsun 510, which was a cheap knock-off of the old BMW 2002, but was nontheless a rear-wheel-drive, small sporty car. (Like 70hp!). Was a blast to drive, sticking the tail out on turns, etc. Was a RWD man for life.

Will never drive another brand.

CTS-V. The trade off of acceleration for build quality was worth it alone.

IS350, tl r, corvette, cl350, but the best was and is my 335 coupe!

'06 Silverado 1500 - Good truck. Discovered I like driving a car better.
'04 VW Touareg V8 - Nice, but a gas hog and electrical nightmare on wheels.
'02 VW Passat - Good all around car.
2000 VW Jetta TDI - Great mileage, my intro to German cars.
Prior to 2000 I've owned a dozen other cars. Everything from an International truck to Honda Civics to minivans. Thank god those days are gone!

A test drive of a 335i did it for me. I didn't buy right after, but instead researched for a few months and then bought a pre-owned 335i sedan. This is the first car that I love driving every day.

My first car while stationed in Germany was an orange 1974 BMW 1802. A then 13 yr old car, it was a blast to drive. It was like a bug had bit me. The car was in pristine condition but I could not bring it home. When the 335 coupe came out I had to have one. The rock solid inline 6 was now a tt-charged powerhouse--who could resist?
The only people I may be jealous of are the 1 series bunch, because they are going to get the essence of the 2002 size plus all that same power--look out!

335i power. I am not crazy about the exterior styling but hard to beat the performance for the $.

Previous car was an '02 C230 Coupe.

Wanted to stay German and wanted something that handled well with gobs of power. There was no other choice. I went to the dealer and test drove it just to make sure, and placed my order.

My previous car, and I still have, is a Honda Pilot, I love the vehicle but should sell it...or would love to sell my Suburban and keep my Pilot...don't need the Sub any more, I got rid of my trailer, so no need for a bigger truck.

I looked a long list of other vehicles before going with the 335xi.

Inifniti G35 and M35
Mazda 3 and 6 (both Mazdaspeed versions)
Mercedes Benz C-Class
Audi A4 and A4 Cabriolet (still love the Cab)
BMW 328xi
Ford Expedition Long (I know it doens't belong in this list, but I'm eclectic)
Lincoln MKZ
Toyota Avalon and Camry

The BMW 335xi was hands down the winner, maybe not the best "value" I think the G35 might have won that one. 335xi fun factor is great, but based on shear fun, I think the Mazdaspeed 3 would have won. Comfort is adequate, but I think the Avalon would have won that one. Utility is OK, but the Expedition would have won that one. Beauty...well the 335xi wins that one. Convertible...A4 Cab was the only one on the list for that so it would have won.

Overall, the 335xi won with the best mix...and after owning it I think it would be a neck and neck battle for fun factor...this 335 is blazing fast and handles very well.

I drove a 1995 VW Jetta and then a 2004.5 Volvo S40. Volvo was such a nice car. But then I got a real job and was able to swing a 335i.

I drove an 05 Jetta GLI before. Very nice car and had good power/handling. I sold my Jetta looking for a RWD platform and seen my 06 325i in the paper going for 22K with only 30000 miles on it. I looked up the NADA on the car and it said it was worth 31K. I emediatly called the guy and it was still available. I drove 2 hours the next day and bought it. The car is fully loaded with the sport package, and in the 4 days of owning it, I can say its the best car I have ever owned. It makes me feel at home when I am driving it.

I was on my way to buy an Infiniti G37. I thought before I did that I would check out a 3 coupe. I never made it to the Infinity dealer.....

Befitting answer to both:
Another 3 series (e36) for 10 years :D

Exactly the same for me -- except for the two years I tried driving a WRX. My 1995 325i's life with me came to and end, the lease ran out on the Subaru. I test drove STI's, EVO's , infinitis, 350Z's, Saabs, Audis, Chevys, Pontiacs even a volvo and a Cayman...For the $$$, you will not find a comparably equipped car with all of the inherent BMW bonuses...Car looks great, Car drives great, Car becomes an extension of yourself -- much like a fine rifle or a perfect jumpshot.

She had me at hello, er. start button that is. I was in a Acura RSX Type-S
and I was just looking for more. I tested the TL type-S (didn't do it for me) MB CLK 350 (nice but not what I was looking for) and the Lotus Elise (wife had issues with buying a 2 seater, even though she has a truck?). It was that low growl when you hit the start button that sealed the deal for me though. It's like a Foldgers Crystal's commercial every morning!

E36 M3 -> 335 coupe.

I'm on my 3rd 3 series and my 2nd 5 series. Currently have an E92 coupe and a 5 series sport wagon. Love them both. Prior to BMW I drove Hondas and an Infiniti I30t which was a very nice car. Doubt I will ever go away from BMW's in the future. Love the power and the connectedness to the road.

We had a relatively rare '03 VW Passat W8 with sport and a 6 speed MT.

Great power, trouble free, and fun AWD car, But, going on 76K miles, we had to find something else. Checked out alot of others in the process.

Needless to say, this was a very :cool choice!

I was originally wanting an S4. I wanted to make sure I had all of my options laid out though, and compared it to the 335xi. It seemed that the 335xi had similar acceleration, better gas mileage and no gas guzzler tax (due to the turbos), and the interior styling didn't make me feel like I was in the Jetta I currently owned. I still think the S4 would have been a good, fun car, but I enjoy getting 28-30mpg on trips, not to mention that it was about 4k cheaper.

I was the same way...had been thinking long and hard about a 3 series but wanted to give others in that class a look..but in the end I came back to BMW..

The history is there..the aura is there...and in my opinion there is no other driving experience as satisfying..

My brother-in-law who has been rabid BMW devotee for many years has put himself on a waiting list for the new M3 sedan..he currently drives a 2003 540 and was duly impressed when I introduced him to my "new ride"...

I look forward to the end of the day when I get to drive this baby home..it's the highlight of my day!

I sold me Twin Turbo 350Z (mainly because I was going to make it even faster)

I tested drove a wide range of cars that confused everybody.

Jeep Wrangler
300C SRT8
Porsche Boxter/Cayman
Audi S4
Audi A6
Audi TT
C6 Z51 (the place didn't want to let me test drive it, so no deal for them)
Pontiac Solstice GXP


I saw a 3-series coupe and thought at the time it was what I was looking for, nice looking coupe. I drove the 335 sedan, then a 328 coupe and decided a needed the engine from the 335 and a 6MT and searched everywhere to find one or the other, with coupe being my preference.

Found it, and even though I didn't get a deal on the car...I love everything about it except it's black and a PAIN to keep clean.

Previous ride was 2000 VW Passat - I had wanted a BMW in 2000 but could not find the right deal; settled for VW which turned out to be a big mistake. VW I purchased was basically a lemon, it never went more than 3-4 months without going to the dealership for service. I loved the dealer service, they were great people and very friendly, but that's not what car ownership should be about.

I test drove everything prior to buying my 328i this past weekend including:

Mercedes C-class: too "old man", wierd interior
Acura: Japanese feel, out dated styling
Mazda3: great little car, would be fun to trick out
Lexus IS250/350: This one almost had me but no good deals, 250 is under powered, and the brakes are typical Toyota, ie non-existant.
Audi A4: smelled and tasted too much like VW (however they still have the best interiors).

In the end, my financial situation was right, I found the exact car I wanted, and was offered a great deal.

Like the ad says, BMW is the ultimate driving machine.
AJQ

is too funny; I had the same experience.

I don't know what it is about Corvette dealers but they don't have many manual transmission cars and they are reluctant to let you drive one.

Didn't have that problem with Porsche, Infiniti or BMW.

I think these guys need to get real and let prospective buyers actually drive a car; I can't imagine buying a car without driving it first.

I think these guys need to get real and let prospective buyers actually drive a car; I can't imagine buying a car without driving it first.
I had such an issue with the Acura dealer here, never went back. Too bad for them, good for me. Don't think I would have settled for FWD though, but the tech gizmos on the Acura were attractive. But in the end, to me a car's enjoyment is in how it drives, not the toys inside.

is too funny; I had the same experience.

I don't know what it is about Corvette dealers but they don't have many manual transmission cars and they are reluctant to let you drive one.

Didn't have that problem with Porsche, Infiniti or BMW.

I think these guys need to get real and let prospective buyers actually drive a car; I can't imagine buying a car without driving it first.

I understood their reason...people don't want miles on their new car, but as somebody who only drove my Dads POS 84 Vette, I wanted to see if I could live with the car, or if I liked it.

I didn't have problems test driving any other car, lol.

I understood their reason...people don't want miles on their new car, but as somebody who only drove my Dads POS 84 Vette, I wanted to see if I could live with the car, or if I liked it.

I didn't have problems test driving any other car, lol.
can't they get 1 demo car ffs, what kind of cheap a#$ dealership is that. Either that, or they do some kind of profiling and deny anyone who they believe, in their judgment, is not a serious buyer. Either case, it is bad business. A good salesman should try to sell you even if he knows you don't want to buy and some cars pretty much sell themselves (or not) which makes me wonder why someone would deny a test drive :shifty.

Exactly. My guess is that most Chevy dealerships sell only 1 or 2 vettes a year so they aren't in a position to let somebody drive the car. So, you essentially have to go to a mega dealer--there's a big one near Detroit--and deal with them.

When we were looking to replace my wife's '96' LT4, we went to several dealerships to drive a '99' C5 and they looked at us like we were crazy. We went to a Porsche dealer, drove a Carerra, then a Boxster and eventually settled on the Boxster and traded our Vette. Getting access to a car to drive with either Porsche or BMW was no problem.

My previous vehicle was a '95 Ford Explorer Limited. The first time I drove a BMW was on a trip to France in 2004 (320d) and that was the start of the love affair. In the spring of 2006 I bought a used 2000 328i which I liked a lot but decided leasing a new one was better in the long run. At first I wasn't too keen on the E90 body style but now I much prefer it over the old E46.

Hello all:


First vehicle was a Model A. Well not quite that old.


A few years ago I purchased the X5. My first BMW. It was and is still amazing. While it was in for service, I tried the 2006 M3. Now that was something. I waited a couple months before calling the salesman and asking if the M3 was still available. He told me that it was sold. Was the last one.

When I tested the M3, I shrugged off his suggestion that I try the 335. He told me that at our 7500 foot plus altitude I would really like the 335. I ignored him.

After hearing that the M3 was sold, I lost interest and decided to "suffer" with the X5. Well, the wife went to Europe again and I had nothing to do one Saturday so I went to the dealer to look at the Z4 and he was able to convince me to try the 335. To shut him up I tried it.

OK. At this altitude NA vehicles are down between 25 and 30 percent in power. The 335 is not. This thing was easily faster than the M3 up here. Should have listened to the salesman the first time.

Guess what the wife saw when she came back from Europe?

Guess what the wife saw when she came back from Europe?
The salesman with your cheque? :eyecrazy :shifty :nono :mad :(

The salesman with your cheque ;).

Hello "mryakan":

Close. She saw the 335 parked in the garage. Deja vu. Last time she went to Europe over my objections she returned to see the X5 in the driveway.

Can't wait to see what I buy next time she goes. I have been anxious to try the SLR McLaren but have not worked up the nerve yet. Hey, us old guys need to compensate for things!

My previous vehicle was a '95 Ford Explorer Limited. The first time I drove a BMW was on a trip to France in 2004 (320d) and that was the start of the love affair. In the spring of 2006 I bought a used 2000 328i which I liked a lot but decided leasing a new one was better in the long run. At first I wasn't too keen on the E90 body style but now I much prefer it over the old E46.

The first time I saw the E90 I fell hard..now I'm drivin' one and it is so surreal...I see people checking my car out all the time and it's a cool feeling! :)

Great car, not a single problem for 27,000 miles. The diesel highway mileage was just too high (36-42) and I felt I needed to stop at gas stations more often. :)

I owned a 325 years ago and just wanted to treat myself to a new bimmer.

Traded it to the bimmer dealer and it sold within a week.

I was originally wanting an S4. I wanted to make sure I had all of my options laid out though, and compared it to the 335xi. It seemed that the 335xi had similar acceleration, better gas mileage and no gas guzzler tax (due to the turbos), and the interior styling didn't make me feel like I was in the Jetta I currently owned. I still think the S4 would have been a good, fun car, but I enjoy getting 28-30mpg on trips, not to mention that it was about 4k cheaper.
I was actually on my way to buy an S4, had already test drove it, loved it, was ready. I'm walking out the door and the guy calls and says sorry we just sold it. I was ticked, very disappointed and stopped looking for S4's. Then I tried the 335, yay.

Im sorry I have to laugh at the comment above referring to the 335 being a step down in sleek styling compared to a supra. I respect supra's ENGINE AND UNDESRUCTABLE TRANNY, but that is it. The rest of the car is disgusting
Heh-heh, no need to apologize! "Different strokes for different folks."

When I bought the car in '93, I test drove the RX-7 but it was too small. I wanted to drive the Dodge Stealth RT/Turbo but the salesdroid wouldn't let me! "No sale for you!" I drove a 'vette, but the doorpanel fell off in my lap (I think I posted that story here somewhere). The Supra hadn't arrived in Tampa yet, so I had to go back a few days later (June 2nd, 1993, btw :)). I didn't particularly like the looks (I like a car with sharper angles), but it grew on me over the first 12-18 months. The 335i Coupe is sort of like that for me ... I'm not head-over-heels in love with the looks, but the power is pretty good.

There is to long of a list of cars to post so I'll condense. First of all I drive a pick-up for my work and always have. All cars and minivans have been the wife's primary and my secondary. Chevy Caprice great car handed it down to two teenage boys as their first car. Ford minivan with many factory recalls and finally a transmission failure it was a real POS. Older BMW 3 series manual trans. high miles and developed electrical issues, it was fun to drive when it was running. Pontiac Firebird Formula LT1 engine, 6 speed manual, this car was an exceptional daily driver it was close to bulletproof but started showing signs of wear and tear after several years. We traded it off on a new 05 VW New Beetle it had the turbo, convertible, leather, manual trans., you name it and it had it. The wife adored this car but after only 2.5 years and 9k miles it had been in the shop 11 times, as another poster had mentioned VW service dept. was very cordial and aimed to please. On our last visit I knew we were getting rid of the car and let them know that we were pleased with the people but not the product.
I considered the fact that in order to get my wife to agree to another car it would have to be special. I took her to our local BMW dealer and told her to look around. She fell for the 328i and was able to pick the colors and options she wanted which was a plus. Her and I both enjoy driving the Bimmer. I'm glad we got into another one, this time it will be us putting the miles on and doing the maintenance on the car unlike the used BMW we had and I'm anticipating a long and pleasant relationship with this car.

i had a 350Z (too many problems) and a Altima SE-R. Never again a FWD. It was the E92 335i due to boost or a EVO X. BMW was available and I went for it.

I'm just curious to see what everyone had before their first 3 series..

I had been wanting a BMW as long as I can remember but could not justify it for one reason or the other so I drove a "reliable" Toyota for many years. As it is I am finally at a point in my life where I felt I can reasonable say it's time..and it's been a great ride (literally...) ever since..

I'm truly a "newbie" but learning fast..my brother-in-law and various friends have been in the Bimmer realm for years and now I know what they have been enthusing about all these years!

So..just out of curiosity...what were your reasons for getting your 1st BMW 3 series (circa 2006 +) and what did you drive before?


I still drive my VW Passat as my second car but always wanted a BMW. Once I test drove the car I knew I had to have one. The handling could not compare to anything I had previously driven. I also liked the styling of the new 3 series which also helped in my decission to buy one !

I have had BMW's since 1971 when I bought a new 2002 while living in the UK. My first 3 series was in 1982 German spec 320i while I was living in Germany. My next 3 was a new '92 325i, then a '97 M3 sedan, a 2001 330Ci and a 2003 330Ci, a 325iT wagon and now a 335i coupe. Love those BMWs.

from an 07 Acura TSX 6 mt

into an 08 BMW 328xi 6 mt

more power and all wheel drive.

i had an 03 acura rsx-s until i made a bad decision that led to being forced to trade/buy a jeep liberty with upside-down financing.

worked hard to get positive equity on the jeep and once i was in a position to do it, i bought an 07 328xi

the liberty was a solid vehicle, 4wd, rugged enough for what i needed, and hauled a decent load for several cross-country moves i made. i realized how much i missed the 6 speed sporty feel of the rsx, so i compromised with a 328xi sedan, 6MT, totally love it and it's the perfect fit for what i need right now.

hoping to upgrade to a 335xi in a year or two. maybe an M3 a little while down the road.

I had a 3 series and a 5 series many years ago. I strayed to Mercedes for a while and reliability problems sent me to an Acura TL. The TL was extremely reliable, but I was never satisfied with it.

After trying $25K "pocket rockets" (Mazdaspeed 3, Civic Si, VW GTI) , I tried an IS 350 and a G35. None of them seemed right. The stage was set to "come home" to BMW. My first drive of the 328 made my decision easy. I ordered one 2 weeks ago.

There's a reason the 3 series wins all the comparison tests in Road&Track and Car&Driver - it's the best sports sedan! BMW invented the sports sedan and they haven't rested. They keep raising the bar.

I drove a 2006 Mustang GT. Actually, it is a good car for under 30K. My 2006 330i is a better car.

My wife had a new Beetle that we traded for a 328xi Coupe. The reason we bought it? Handling and AWD. Would not have bought a non-AWD car.

'07 G35 Sedan (Non-sport). Seats were uncomfortable, elbow rests on door were too low to use, center console arm rest was too far back to use.

Car had bad rattles, engine bucked when cold when pulling off from a stop, sunroof leaked, seat heaters did not work. Dealership could not seem to fix any of the problems with the car after
multiple attempts. Final straw was when dealership kept the car over the weekend to try and fix engine bucking when cold and dealership left my car parked behind the dealership unsecured (after assuring me they would keep it locked in the garage over the weekend) and allowed the expensive aftermarket Volk wheels on it to be stolen then claimed they were not responsible for damages that occured to cars left with them (dealership didn't even have a fenced in lot of vehicles being serviced).

Just wish I had drove a 335i before buying the G35. I love the 335i. Seats are really good. Arm rests are where they should be. It feels ALOT faster and it's not a rattle bucket and it's more fun to drive.

1st post...what better place to start?

had a 320i in the 80s. moved to an audi 4000 in '87. added a miata at the end of '89.

then came the dark years. SUVs while my son grew up with infrequent jaunts in the miata (18 years/45,000 mi).

just got SICK of driving SUVs (even the company car is an Explorer).

on a whim, went to a dealer to look at an '04 330xi w/ 24,000 miles. liked it loads...felt great...just wasn't sure about owning once it was out of warranty. (320i had started to kill me back then)

dealer suggested we look "new" and showed me a leftover '07 328i in graphite with the beautiful "terra" leather. premium pkg., sport pkg., cold weather.
gorgeous, perfect fit.

all is well.

I had an '02 M Roadster before and wanted something a little more practical for a daily driver since our company cars were taken away.

The M3 isn't out yet and liked the feel of the 335 when I drove it. Comfy and sporty. X drive works well in the snow too.

The only car I've ever had that wasn't a BMW was a 1991 Mercedes 300E my parents gave me as my first car. I was always talking about how I wanted to learn manual and my cousin was getting rid of his 1996 318is for next to nothing because it had a bunch of things go wrong all at once so my dad offered to buy it for me and that's how I got the E36. After about 6 months the E36 was again having problems, this time its A/C was broken and the radio died (replaced it with an Alpine) and its clutch is nearly done among other things making it very annoying to drive daily, plus my school was about 30 miles from my house so my dad bought me the E90.

Compared to that old Mercedes and the Benzes my parents drive (2003 E320 and 2004 CLK320) my E90 is in a league of its own in every way for me, I love it so much.

I research and research and was set to get a vw rabbit. Someone hit my wifes car and their ins paid for a rental so I rented a jetta which is identical to the rabbit except for trunk. What a disappointment. I was back to square one. I drove through the auto park and went to the bmw dealer for a test drive of a 328i with no intention of getting one.

I was blown away. I waited a couple of weeks and went back for another drive, I was more impressed. I was going to order an 08, when a week after the 2nd test drive, I got a call from the dealer that they were unloading a 328 right now from the truck with no paint protection, (which the dealer puts on all cars for $800 and I did not want) and no low jack.

I went for a test drive and the rest is history, I got it and what a fantastic car. I got it in August and im so impressed each day I drive it. All I can say is Wow.

Previous car: Carrera S

My 335i coupe is half the price, but just as much fun - in a different way.

I am military coming from Korea to Germany (been now in Germany for 3 weeks). I have an 03 evo which I love to death - it still hasn't arrived yet :( We needed a car for the wife and she said she wanted a BMW but thought we could never afford one. I got in contact with a salesman over here and he said that he had a left over 07 US spec 328i artic metallic automatic with premium, xenon and the cold weather packages on it with 6 miles on that was sitting on the lot. I ended up picking it up for $33k even (don't know if it a good or bad price). Now it is not as much as a "driver's car" as my evo but I love the little things like heated seats, auto wipers/lights, and setting the cruise to 100mph on the autobahn. Just wondering if I am gonna be happy or sad when the evo gets here and I have to give the bimmer up to my wife.

I am military coming from Korea to Germany (been now in Germany for 3 weeks). I have an 03 evo which I love to death - it still hasn't arrived yet :( We needed a car for the wife and she said she wanted a BMW but thought we could never afford one. I got in contact with a salesman over here and he said that he had a left over 07 US spec 328i artic metallic automatic with premium, xenon and the cold weather packages on it with 6 miles on that was sitting on the lot. I ended up picking it up for $33k even (don't know if it a good or bad price). Now it is not as much as a "driver's car" as my evo but I love the little things like heated seats, auto wipers/lights, and setting the cruise to 100mph on the autobahn. Just wondering if I am gonna be happy or sad when the evo gets here and I have to give the bimmer up to my wife.
You'll be 90% sad :D. With the 335 you'd have probably been 100% sad giving it up. The only thing your evo will offer is added power, but at the expense of refinement. P.S. BMW is the real driver's car ;).

reseached the 335i and compared it to other cars with the same performance. I could have spent more money and got a little more perfomance or a little less money with less quality and value? Lotus, 911, G35, Mustang, Lexus, Vette's, Viper, TL's, all the 2 seaters you can think of but pound 4 pound, dollar 4 dollar This is It. I have owned more cars, trucks and SUV's than I care to mention. I have a Toyota 4runner with over 300k miles on it to pull my toys. A Saab with a for sale sign on it. ( Pilots luv them )

I drove a Saab 9-3 prior to my BMW. I bought it because I lived in Michigan and wanted something decent in the snow. The GM discount also didn't hurt. It was a great car, but after moving to California, I wanted all the things that I couldn't have in Michigan - mainly, something RWD.

I always wanted a Vette but, apparently during some time between wanting a Vette and being able to afford one I learned that they weren't very practical, unrefined, and had ugly interiors. It has a ton of bang for the buck but I outgrew my want for pure power.

So the new criteria became: RWD, luxory brand, hard top convertible, seats more than 2 people. That pretty much whittled things down to BMW and Volvo and I'm not a big fan of Volvos.

After test driving a 328 and 335 I knew I was on the right track!

Still own my Jag X-Type 3.0 for now, but that's going to change pretty soon.

I love that little car and so does my wife (it's hers) but, it has been with us for about five years now (very reliable during that time) and the excellent Jaguar service and warranty will run out in a few months. When we bought the car, we figuered we'd replace it about now and that's why I've been looking for a replacement.

Until Jaguar dropped the five-speed manual back in '05, we figured we'd replace the '02 with a new X-Type but, since Jaguar is in such dire straights these days (and they are dropping the X-Type anyway), another X is simply not in the cards for us. We both want a manual gearbox, a six cyliinder engine and AWD.

We looked at all the alternatives and no one offers an equivelent to the X-Type nearly as well as a three-series BMW. The lack of a place to put a spare put me off back in '03 and it still does but now we're left with this or nothing. Well, I'm still looking but I'll probably put a full-size spare in the trunk and keep the bags on the back seat when we travel.

I have been unpleasantly surprised that a 328Xi sure won't be much like the X-Type when it comes to room and amenities.

Other than that, I do like the three series BMW, even though I'm less than happy with the way they bent the sheet metal on the current one.

Sure sounds familiar-- never ever thought I'd "want ' or buy a BMW BUT ....
I have a mazdaspeed Miata for summer fun and when I was able to upgrade my daily driver ( 03 Accord) my reference point was always the turbo kick of the miata and the 'FUN" driving .After many vehicle test drives the BMW brought the Miata Smile back to me .

You'll be 90% sad . With the 335 you'd have probably been 100% sad giving it up. The only thing your evo will offer is added power, but at the expense of refinement. P.S. BMW is the real driver's car .

I don't think I will be that sad.... In a land where 50% of the people are in Bimmer's, the evo will turn a lot more heads.

I had a 2006 Subaru WRX 5 door. before that a 1999 Mitsubishi 3000GT SL. at least I am making gradual improvements in the purchase cycle. I wanted to join the 300HP club, but needed all wheel drive for the snow. I picked it over the Audi S4 and the new Subaru STi. Audi didn't offer the same performance for the money and the new STi is an unproven platform to date. Besides, 300hp out of a little 4 cylinder engine is a lot to ask, Sti's are notorious for blowing head gaskets.

I don't think I will be that sad.... In a land where 50% of the people are in Bimmer's, the evo will turn a lot more heads.
No offense to the EVo, but aside from enthusiasts, 99% don't know what it is. So not sure there will be many sprained necks with the evo.

2006 acura csx

well i m actually in the middle of deciding between the 335i or the z4 M

335i is the most practical car in the price range. pretty much the best out of the alternatives in every way. not to mention i already know how great of a drive they are as more than couple of my friends own one.

Why did I buy a BMW 3? It's a BMW 3 Series. It's really that simple.

Before we had a E46, 330i.

before my 335, I had a '05 Mustang GT and then the '06 Monte Carlo SS. Got rid of the Mustang because of to many problems after all the mods I did. The Monte Carlo because the onboard computer kept crashing 8 times. Now I will NEVER own anything other then luxury cars.

No offense to the EVo, but aside from enthusiasts, 99% don't know what it is. So not sure there will be many sprained necks with the evo.

I guess it all depends on the crowd you run in.

Only the 'kids' where I work would be impressed by the EVO.

Most guys over 35 or 40 would either not even know what it is or (more likely) think it was a 'riced out' boy-racer econo-box. Those guys would be far more impressed with the BMW.

yeah, but here in Germany it will be more like "Bimmer, Bimmer, Bimmer, Mecedes, Bimmer,....what the hell is that?"
I just moved here from Korea and it was the same thing. No one over there had a clue on what an evo was, it just got a lot of attention because it was not a Hyundia.

Prior to my 335 i drive some inferior cars - the F1 was ridiculously overrated and the Bugatti - well there is only one real car that begins with "B" and that a BMW!

Leased a 2006 Nissan Altima prior to my 325i ownership, and I loved the Altima, but was tired of the same car. Test drove many new vehicles in the $25k price range (Pontiac G6, Chevy Impala, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, etc.) and was just not impressed at all with any. Went to a local Ford dealer to look at some Fusions, and my eyes meet up with a dirty black 2006 325i, just on the market. Test drove it, bought it the same day... A little more pricey, but finally something I'm happy with.

BTW, I was pretty surprised with the Hyundai Sonata. Fully loaded, leather, V6, for a great low price. I've got a 2000 Elantra for a beater car, and it's a champ. It's been in two major accidents where niether were my fault, and niether of the drivers had insurance. I basically glued the car together instead of sueing to fix my $3K car, and I frequently drive it to Kansas City (2 hour drive) and Topeka (1 hour drive) with no interuptions. Now I know it ain't no Bimmer, but people should give Hyundai a second glance if they need cheap reliable transportation...

Finally got bored with my Toyota (Solara coupe), decided to take a test drive of a 335 coupe--I was against the car before taking the drive, because of the cost and perceived lack of reliability.

The drive convinced me--reminded me of some of the beasts I used to drive some years back.

yeah, but here in Germany it will be more like "Bimmer, Bimmer, Bimmer, Mecedes, Bimmer,....what the hell is that?"
Weird! In the US it is GM, GM , Ford, Chrysler, GM, Ford. Wonder why!! :rolleyes

but people should give Hyundai a second glance if they need cheap reliable transportation...
Aren't they rated the most improved automaker in history MY to MY! Quite amazing how far they've come in a short time. They have a winning formula though, reverse engineer various japanese cars one or 2 models ago, OEM the best parts from those cars, then put them into a new car. They're getting good at it and the result is a car that is almost as reliable as the sum of all Japanese cars a few years back. Not a bad place to be.

Aren't they rated the most improved automaker in history MY to MY! Quite amazing how far they've come in a short time. They have a winning formula though, reverse engineer various japanese cars one or 2 models ago, OEM the best parts from those cars, then put them into a new car. They're getting good at it and the result is a car that is almost as reliable as the sum of all Japanese cars a few years back. Not a bad place to be.


Not really a Huyndai fan myself but I do admit I've been impressed with their recent products looks, handling, reliability and performance. At the rate they are going, they'll out Honda Honda in five more years.

They're probably already as reliable (and as good looking) as Toyota or Nissan.

test

Not really a Huyndai fan myself but I do admit I've been impressed with their recent products looks, handling, reliability and performance. At the rate they are going, they'll out Honda Honda in five more years.

They're probably already as reliable (and as good looking) as Toyota or Nissan.

Yeah well I'll post more about the reliability this summer. I'm a smoker, however I don't smoke in the Bimmer but I do in the Hyundai. I'm planning a trip to Memphis TN for a week, and then Florida for another week back to back. I also plan on taking the Hyundai so I can smoke, and I don't want to dirty the Bimmer with endless fast food wrappers! Plus I am taking two other people, and when we trade off driving, I'll feel much better if they drive my Elantra over the 325i. Keep in mind that I do live in KS, so that's a good little hump for a car I originally paid $1,200 for ha!

A 2001 330Ci, a 2004 330Ci and a 2001 325iT

i just bought a 08 328i convertible last night, it has a much more sport feel and much stiffer. i can feel the road but the car is truely a beauty. i had an 03 benz e320 sport before this one... that drove more like a fam car, like my mom's old camry. it has a smooth ride and feels luxury. i switched to a bimmer because its a HOTTER car, haha. jk. no, my ex had a bimmer and ever since, i have been wanting to get a bimmer... thanks to the new 3 series body and hard top convertible, i finally jumped on it and did it... although, im like dead broke now, hahaaa. =]

I used to have an e39 540i but it was totaled when a semitruck hit me =/
Insurance gave me 26k for it so I went out to Concord BMW and test drove a few cars.
I thought the e90 was the sexiest/funest/ most affordable car so i bought it.
Almost bought a 2006 530i but i thought it was too big. I was also thinking about an e46 m3 but i thought the e90's looked /handled way better

Prior cars for me were 2001 Honda Civic, then bought a 2004 Audi A4 1.8t, after Audi bought the VW GLI again 2004 still have this car. Decided on a BMW because always wanted one and finally got it.

My story goes like this....

I had a 97 V6 Camry with 30,000 miles (no that isn't a misprint) but like any 11 year old car it was starting to cost me upkeep and I wanted something new. My wife wanted me to be practical as I barely drive the car so i looked at whole range of cars like the altima, accord. I decided that why should my wife have a nice car (Audi Q7) and I drive something pedestrian so i started to look at "better" cars like the G35X, Acura RDX, Infiniti EX and the Audi A4. It was quick for me to narrow it down to the G35x and the BMW 335Xi and 328XI (the A4 would have been there except for the fact that it is getting a redesign in a few months and I hate having a car that looks old when it isn't) I loved the 335xi but i couldn't justify paying the extra few grand for a car I just don't drive enough so I got the 328xi and I love driving it so much that I am driving it just for the fun of driving it. I can't see getting anything but a Bimmer (unless that Porsche 911 Turbo suddenly fits into my budget)

I drove a e39 2003 525i, was a great car, and I was pretty content. One day, the hubs suggested we go for a drive, and we ended up at the dealership. He tells me to pick one....so I raced over to the AW M6 and he says "yeah, right! Pick again..." He reminds me that I had been hounding him about the new twin turbo 3 series. I took a test drive, and the rest is history. I have never enjoyed a car as much as I do this one. by the by the hubs just got himself a new 2008 550i, and he is in love with it, as much as I am with my 335.

I drove a e39 2003 525i, was a great car, and I was pretty content. One day, the hubs suggested we go for a drive, and we ended up at the dealership. He tells me to pick one....so I raced over to the AW M6 and he says "yeah, right! Pick again..." He reminds me that I had been hounding him about the new twin turbo 3 series. I took a test drive, and the rest is history. I have never enjoyed a car as much as I do this one. by the by the hubs just got himself a new 2008 550i, and he is in love with it, as much as I am with my 335.
Nice heartwarming family story which I though only existed in Disney movies :D. Congrats, that sounds like lots of fun. Do the kids have a preferred car, if there are kids that is.

Nice heartwarming family story which I though only existed in Disney movies :D. Congrats, that sounds like lots of fun. Do the kids have a preferred car, if there are kids that is.

Hello "mryakan":

Yes. Brought a tear to my wrinkled eye too. The wife does not really like the 335i. She will drive it, but only if necessary. She really likes her X5, to the point that she did not want the new X5 when I told her to make a deal on the new one.

Perhaps after she tries the 540i I just bought for the spawn. When she gets used to the V8.

Prior to buying my 2008 e92, I drove a 2003 Mercedes Benz C320 sport coupe. Nice enough car--I'm apparently one of the few Americans who liked the hatchback styling--but driving it was never very exciting or sporty. It felt very "disconnected" from the road. But...being a relatively frugal gal, I usually keep my cars for 8-9 years (my favorite PRIOR to the e92 being my '92 Saab 900S which I had for 9 years) and so a new car wasn't in my plans. Until...my retired 71 year old mom has her Honda Civic stolen. She always liked my little Benz, didn't want to buy a new car given her age/how much she drives...can you say "win win" situation?! I have to say, after driving the bimmer, I don't think I'll buy any other make of car in the future!

I have 2 diecast models of Bimmers sitting at my desk. One is a Z8 and the other is a "hot wheel" size Z3. I often have co-workers ask me what kind of cars they are and I tell them Bimmers! I keep this forum up on my computer most of the day and look forward to the end of the day when I can drive "mine" home. I've only had my 335i for 5 months but feel like I've had it forever! Our "family car" is a Toyota Sienna which pretty much drives like a Camry and when I climb in the cockpit of my Bimmer I know I'm in for a unique experience every time I go out...that's testament to a a great car! Now I just need to find myself a nice diecast 3 series in sparkling graphite to join my collection..

Currently driving an '03 Lexus, I'm going to sell it privately and then lease either a 328xi or 335xi. One thing I do know is that it will be Montego Blue. :buttrock

I have an 07 328i Convertible. I traded an 04 Infinity G35 coupe. I loved the G35. It was the first brand-new car I ever purchased.

I went for my 3 series because of the hard-top convertible. I've always wanted a convertible and after seeing some you-tube videos of the new e93, I decided that was the car I wanted.

My medium story:

I was driving a '96 Jeep Grand Cherikee (hand-down, but bought from the parents). Wife was driving a 2002 Mitsubishi Galant. In the fall of '07, my Wife needed a larger car for her job and was in love with the Murano, so she got one. We traded in the old '96 Jeep, so I was left with the Galant. It ran fine, but I've gotta say I was a bit jealous of her new vehicle. So last month, we both looked at our finances and decided to search for a new car to replace the Galant.

I remembered last summer, when we visited my cousin in Chicago, he was driving an Infiniti G35x and I REALLY liked it. So our search started there. But, looking at similar cars in that same price range, opened the door to the BMW 328xi, the Audi A4, the Volvo s40/s60, the Acura TL, and a few others... We test drove all of them, and then I picked up Consumer Reports '08 Car Buyers guide and really narrowed it down to the Infiniti G35x and the BMW 328xi. I really liked both. But in the end, I chose a more classic, solid designed car over the more futuristic, sort of trendy car.

And that is why I'm in this forum today :)

My medium story:

I was driving a '96 Jeep Grand Cherikee (hand-down, but bought from the parents). Wife was driving a 2002 Mitsubishi Galant. In the fall of '07, my Wife needed a larger car for her job and was in love with the Murano, so she got one. We traded in the old '96 Jeep, so I was left with the Galant. It ran fine, but I've gotta say I was a bit jealous of her new vehicle. So last month, we both looked at our finances and decided to search for a new car to replace the Galant.

I remembered last summer, when we visited my cousin in Chicago, he was driving an Infiniti G35x and I REALLY liked it. So our search started there. But, looking at similar cars in that same price range, opened the door to the BMW 328xi, the Audi A4, the Volvo s40/s60, the Acura TL, and a few others... We test drove all of them, and then I picked up Consumer Reports '08 Car Buyers guide and really narrowed it down to the Infiniti G35x and the BMW 328xi. I really liked both. But in the end, I chose a more classic, solid designed car over the more futuristic, sort of trendy car.

And that is why I'm in this forum today :)

I like the styling of the E90 over the Infinity...it is a classic as you say..

I love the handling of the 3-Series, great leasing deal I got from the local dealer. I have an 05 CTS that the lease is coming up. My final four cars before I selected the bimmer was G35, C300/350, CTS, 328/335.

I've been wanting a BMW for years....so finally pulled the trigger before life passes by....haha

I'm still driving my old 97 Acura CL 3.0 with 147,979 miles...which never dies..haha

I use to drive a honda accord:(. Test drove my friends 335 and fell in love;)

A friend of mine told me that once you drive a Bimmer you'll never want to drive anything else. I can understand that statement. The ride and handling is second to none. I think one day I'll get a beater for everyday runs but for sheer driving pleasure I'm sticking to my Bimmer..

i bought new 06 nissan xterra, and now moved onto bmw....I do still however miss the space, powers, and off-roading and driving basically over anything on the road :). One day im hoping to get it as my second car.

I went from 325xi sedan, to an Audi A6 and now I am back in a 335xi Coupe. The Audi was one of the worst cars I have ever owned. I was tempted by the new A5/S5 coupes but in the end, I felt I would regret not having the BMW. The only reason I dumbed the 325xi was the size. I am 6 foot, 250 and it really was a tight fit. Now with the new large coupe/sedans there is what seems to be a lot more room. I did test drive a 3 and a 5 twice during the my visit to the dealer, but in the end the driving experience in the 3 got to me.

hmm well ive always wanted a bmw. started with acura csx then a lexus IS250 shortly after. after driving my buddies 335i last year, well yaa haha i just had to get one myself. now 5 of my friends have added a 335i to their lot. =)

Just picked up my Sparkling Graphite 328i sport a couple of weeks ago. One I test drove it I couldn't drive anything else! I upgraded from an 01 Saturn SC2

Hi all.
I am picking up my new 08 335i Convertible this Friday. White exterior, Red Interior, fully loaded w/nav. The new wheels I ordered are on the way. This is my 3rd 3-Series; previously owned a 3rd generation 318IS (great, but too slow) and a 4th generation 325I (great, but bought it used and the 3rd party extended warranty sucks).

Per my username C62335i implies, I traded in my 06 Corvette Convertible for this. My wife is so happy to loose the vette, esp. because we're having our 2nd child deliver in the next week or so.

Just picked up my Sparkling Graphite 328i sport a couple of weeks ago. One I test drove it I couldn't drive anything else! I upgraded from an 01 Saturn SC2

Man..what an upgrade! By the way...great color choice!

I have an SG 335i and I love it!

Recently received a substantial raise, so I decided to come out of my Accord and get back into the performance car world. I had 2 previous Mustang GT's; my 99 ran a 13.4 1/4mi after a few modifications.

My choices were simple...I wanted something nice and prestigious that would get me in the 12-sec 1/4mi range that wouldn't cost over $50k. My choices were a Mustang GT500, a discounted 2007 C6, or a 335i (piggy-backed). The GT500 was still marked up too high, the wife didn't like the lack of seats in the C6, so the 335i was the winner. http://www.mustangworld.com/forums/images/smilies/burnout.gif

3 series convertible has been my dream car ever since I was lucky enough to drive one 20 years ago. Been driving a 2002 Civic, but recently got a big raise that helped make my dream a reality. I recently placed the order, and my 335 arrives next month.

I drove my exgirlfriend's father's 5 series and i was hooked. It took a few years to actually get myself into a position where i could afford one. Funny story, I took out some cash to go christmas shopping. I was driving to the mall, and my truck mysteriously started to turn into the BMW dealership. I thought "what the hell, i'll take a look". Next thing you know, im taking a test drive. Then all of a sudden my wallet is a lot lighter, and i have a very expensive piece of paper promising my 330xi will be delivered in 8 weeks. I walked out, got in my truck and drove back to my parents house. They asked me how the christmas shopping went, i said "pretty good." and showed my dad the very expensive piece of pink paper. He laughed, my mom shook her head. (another trip to the mall and everybody got their christmas presents that year.)

Went from an '04 TL to a 328i. The Acura is a great car. Really! But the handling is nowhere near 3-series level and that made all the difference to me. Acura's TL is supposed to be their "sports sedan", but it really isn't all that sporty. Not compared to driving a 3 series. Sure the TL is faster in a straight line but that's just like many other american makes; fast in a straight line and sucks in the corners. The TL feels more like a big american muscle sedan than a nimble european sports sedan.

Went from an '04 TL to a 328i. The Acura is a great car. Really! But the handling is nowhere near 3-series level and that made all the difference to me. Acura's TL is supposed to be their "sports sedan", but it really isn't all that sporty. Not compared to driving a 3 series. Sure the TL is faster in a straight line but that's just like many other american makes; fast in a straight line and sucks in the corners. The TL feels more like a big american muscle sedan than a nimble european sports sedan.

I agree...I test drove the Lexus IS350 and found it lacking in the handling department...BMWs are unique in that respect...I have not driven a car yet that gives me that "nimble" feeling as you described...the handling characteristics of the BMW places it head and shoulders above the rest!

3 series convertible has been my dream car ever since I was lucky enough to drive one 20 years ago. Been driving a 2002 Civic, but recently got a big raise that helped make my dream a reality. I recently placed the order, and my 335 arrives next month.

My sentiments in a lot of ways...

In the eighties when Bimmers were considered the car of choice among
Yuppies i couldn't afford one but I always wanted one. So like you I harbored a "dream" that one day I would have one and when thay day came I was as excited as a kid on Christmas morning! And it's been great ever since..

'91 Accord....'96 Acura Integra GSR....'03 325i sedan....'04 Honda S2000 (it was such a good deal...couldn't pass up how much fun it was to throw into corners)... '05 Subaru WRX...'06 RSX Type-S....'08 335i black sapphire coupe with a lot of bells and whistles...best car I've ever driven....so far.

95 S420 Mercedes
87 E300 Mercedes
79 320i BMW that I drove 23 years, 318K 1-owner miles
76 530i BMW
84 533i BMW that we drove until 210K

With assorted short term GM stuff, (Pontiac Bonneville and a GMC van) swore off all GM products, after the plastic intake problems with EGR thru intake ??!!

Love my German RWD cars, but sort of like my wifes present 2007 Honda Accord, which does not exhibit the torque steer very much.

My daughters are both driving, and I was ready to get away from a four door sedan. I wanted fun and practical. I wanted to get back to a manual transmission after being in automatics for 20 years. After much shopping I chose the 328i coupe. Why?

Solid car. The body integrity should last, and I expect to be happy with it for 8-10 years.
Its big enough for my wife and I to be comfortable.
Big enough back seat for two to ride for a short ride. But we'll rarely need it.
Plenty of trunk space for two.
Very attractive without being fancy: simple lines inside and out.
Decent gas mileage.
Small enough for getting around nicely in town.
Handles beautifully and is a blast to drive.
My prior "family" four door sedans purchased after my daughters were born in 1991 and 1992:

1995 Nissan Maxima. Bought new. Good car. But after 75,000 miles I could tell that the body integrity was starting to go. So, I traded it in on a...
1995 Mercedes E300 Diesel. Bought in 1999 with 49,000 miles on it. Great car. Drove it to 150,000 miles. That car would have lasted 300,000 miles. And it was in perfect running order. Then, in May of 2004 some s.o.b. who wasn't looking rear-ended me at 70 MPH while I was in a traffic jam.:mad Totaled the car. Of all my ex-cars, its the one I wish I still had. I then got a...
2000 Mercedes E320. I bought it in June of 2004 with 31,000 miles on it. Solid and unexciting. Mercedes made the W210 E-type much softer than the previous W124 E-type (my '95 E300 Diesel), which was really a driver's sedan. Disappointing, yet comfortable and dependable. Totaled, with 92,000 miles on it, in April of 2008 from flood damage. Too bad as it was paid for and ran perfectly. I knew I was going to get a smaller car, but I wanted to wait another year or so.

I'm a female who is like a guy when it comes to cars. I am NOT one of those people who thinks a car is just something that gets you from point A to point B. I also, admittedly, am all about an impressive nameplate. I want to be really proud when the valet parker pulls up my car. But I can't just have the 'brand', I also have to have the wheels. I can't have a vehicle with less than 17 inchers. Actually, I like the look of 18 or 19's, but they are a bit impractical for me....so I try to find 17's that have the look of 18's. I found that in my new 328xi coupe with sport package.

I like an aggressive look. I had a 2000 528, a body style that I thought was the ultimate in aggressive but classy styling. I HATED the new 5's when they came out a few years ago. They've grown on me since then, but I'm completely priced out of that market anymore. I wasn't crazy about the 3 sedan because I thought it looked too small (for my taste, that is...no offense to sedan owners). THEN, I saw a 3 coupe. I actually couldn't tell which model it was....it looked so long and sleek. When I saw the 7-spoke sport wheels on the 328xi, I was sold!

One more thing: You know how sometimes you smell something that brings back a happy memory of the past? The car I test-drove (and ultimately bought) had the same lovely new-car smell as my 528 -- it immediately put me in a happy place! I am SO in love with this car! I came out of the store tonight and actually did a double-take when I looked at it -- THAT'S MY CAR!!! Sorry for the long post, but ahhhhh...I can't tell you how thrilled I am to be back in the BMW saddle.

First one; 1953 Austin-Healey 100-4.

Second; 1957 Jaguar XK140MC coupe.

Third; 1955 Jaguar XK140 roadster.

That was back in the 50s and 60s.

Now, I have a 328i on order.

Time to get back to sports cars again...

I'm a female who is like a guy when it comes to cars. I am NOT one of those people who thinks a car is just something that gets you from point A to point B.
Will you marry me?


:redspot

Oops, wait a minute. I'm already married. :nono

Over the years, twenty or so asssorted cars and trucks from three continents. This will be my fourth 3 Series: E30 325i coupe & 325is, E36 M3 that is no longer going to be my driver; but I am keeping, and an '08 328i Coupe that will be delivered to the dealership this Monday. I wanted another BMW, and the E92 was what I was looking for in style, handling, size, and standard features. I did not want nor need bells and whistles, so all that was added for options was an auto trans and memory leather seats.

I originally started out in a 95 accord in 02 when I first got my license, the in 06 went to the g35x, then in 07 went into the g37s, then a couple weeks ago picked up my first BMW...an alpine white/cream beige 335 convertible. It drives like a dream and I think BMW now has made a loyal customer out of a previous infiniti customer. I have the ultimate driving/"tanning" machine!

I'm still trying to decide between a MB c350 or the 335. Either way I can't make up my mind til the 335d comes out, and I don't know if I'll like it enough to justify the $10,000 difference when I really like the styling of the Benz.

i was beating the audi a4 2.0T s-line around but it was leased. but i've been eyeing the 335xi i have now for a long time. i love the twin turbo feel as opposed to the single turbo that my audi had, and the v6 adds a good kick to it as well. i was also impressed with the pricing of this car and the potential this car has. i love the sound of the 335xi, its really nice in high rpms. i also loved the audi's drive, still do, but i have to say i'm amazed with bmw's drive as well. the all wheel really helps in the inclement weather, and it really sticks on turns. i love to really drive the craziness :firedevil out of all the cars i drive and this one really kicks ass. :buttrock

oh and i love the montego color as well :D

the v6 adds a good kick to it as well.

i6 :)

This weekend I drove to Austin with my family in our Toyota Sienna Minivan. Needless to say the minivan is all about practicality not performance but I'm perfectly fine with that. Now as I was making my way up the winding, hilly, scenic roads of 71 west I was thinking...wow if I were in my 335i I could be having a ton of fun! Within a couple of minutes of this thought I see a 335i SG coupe in my rearview mirror making it's way up the road! It was obvious the guy driving it was having a blast! As he passed my minivan I thought to myself sometime in the near future I'm taking mine for a spin down these hilly stretches of highway...

I have a 94 Accord to commute to work with.

I had a 96 Ford Mustang I was building and a 1990 Honda Accord with 477whp. I got tired of modding and fixing so...I just decided to buy a brand new car.

Well, I was driving a 350Z roadster but recently divorced a two seater was not going to be practical. I looked at the IS and G and 335i w/sport. Hands down the interior styling and handling made the BMW stand out for me. I have had the car about two weeks now and love it. It doesn't handle the corners as well as the Z but close enough and it is way more comfortable cruising on the hwy.

I drove a few used G35's, then drove the new G37. I really liked it and decided I would get one. THEN a buddy of mine asked if I had driven the 335 yet. I told him it was too much money. He mentioned a few used ones with very low miles that were about 5k less than a new one. So I went and drove a new 335 at the local car dealership and I was BLOWN AWAY. In almost every way, ITS SUPERIOR TO THE G37.
So I bought a used one and save 4-5 k plus not having to pay sales tax. It was a no brainer and 7 months later I'm still in love with the car. Gets great gas mileage too. I avg 23, but get 28 on the highway doing 75. That isn't bad and at least 3mpg better than a Infiniti G, not to mention all the other benefits from RIDE, to performance, to comfort, to driving dynamics, visibility, lighting, warranty (maintenance), etc etc.
The only thing I'm not crazy about on the BMW is the interior. It's very functional, but it's bland and a little outdated for a 2007. If it had an AUDI interior, I would sell my house and family and just live in it.

My previous car was a 2004 Acura TL, I wasn't even looking for another car until I saw a 335i coupe last October on my way home from work.

At first I didn't even know what it was only that it was a BMW, I caught up with it a light and was able to see the 335i badge. I went home looked on the web started to learn more and more about the car, after that I took a test drive at the local dealer and was sold on the car!

I always thought the Acura TL drove well and had pretty good power, I loved all the "bells and whistles" that came with the TL, however I never would have imagined that the ride and power that surges from the 335i would be so good.

I have to say that driving this car is an exhilarating experience!

I drove a 3 series about 9 years ago, and have wanted one since... love at first drive.

Well life took over, and other things had priority. Sucks!

But, I just got mine beginning of the month, and still look at it in our garage and get all giddy knowing that its mine all mine. Sparkling Graphite 335. Already had the windows tinted, black lines installed, and quite a few mods are on the way... So excited.

Before this I drove a Hyundai Elantra. Was a great car for the longest time, and can't beat the gas mileage... I miss it for that and only that!

We actually just ordered our first BMW today. We'll have an 08 328i, sparkling graphite w/ black interior and sport pkg in 6 weeks or so. We started looking at 335i's, but she wouldn't pay that much....

My wife finally decided to part with her beloved Miata since we needed a bigger car. We drove many different cars, and the choice was much more difficult than we thought it would be. We narrowed it down to the Lexus IS or a 3 series. We found the IS backseat to be too small.

She has wanted a BMW for many years and now we can afford one and the timing is right, so we took the plunge today. It will be her daily driver and I won't drive it too much since I have a take home car from work. We also have an 07 Dodge Ram 1500 hemi that is my ride when I need it to tow the boat.

We decided to lease since we get rid of cars every 3 years or so anyway. That way we can move up when this lease is over.

I am new to the forums, and have been searching/browsing around for a while now. I'm trying to get a feel for others' reasoning on why they picked a 3-series (2008 335i 4-door, in my situation, but would love to hear about why you chose a 325/328) over an Acura TL.

I dont think either car has changed much in the last few years, so I'm curious to hear from those that were considering both the BMW and Acura, and chose the BMW.

I have driven both, and know which I will probably go with, but would like to hear some feedback on (what I'm personally contemplating):

Why the less sophisticated interior of a 3-series over the more gadgety/quality interior of the TL?

Does the 3-series drive that much better than the TL? (I only drove them "around the block", really. Got to go through canyon with 3-series sport pckg, and wow. TL drive similar?)

Which is more stable at higher speeds?

It just seems the TL is "more" car, yet people seem to still choose the 3-series.

And btw, I can take over my buddy's lease on his '08 4-door 335i. Just a faster version of the 328, right? At least thats what I think.

Thanks a lot!!

I never thought I would be a BMW owner, but times change.
Previous car '03 E320 MBZ - a piece of crap (could have been elgibile for the "lemon law"), prior to that several Japanese cars that were non-distinct.
I bought based upon the following;
- great reliability record in both US and Asia (#1 selling car in S'pore for 2 years, surpassing MBZ)
- The new turbo has great HP/fuel economy versus other mfg's - @ 300 HP!
- BMW styles have improved since 2003, to my taste
- 6 sp AT with paddle shifters is awesome
- BMW assist and maintenance program for 4 years
- Quality, much better than MBZ or other German mfg's, and equivalent to Japanese mfg's

Things to be aware - these cars are performance cars, not exactly luxury cars so chose carefully.

No Accord-TSX-TL wagon available in the US!

The number of station wagons available in the US with manual transmissions -- you can count on both hands.

The TL-S -- the only TL available with a manual now -- has an interior that's a bit much.

I like Honda products. I own stock in Honda. The sane members of my family all seem to drive Hondas. For 97% of people on the road, a Honda would be the perfect choice.

I've been a Eurocar nut my entire life. I love Eurocars. The first BMW I ever sat in was an Isetta. Eurocars just seem to have a soul -- maybe it's all of the annoyances -- and Hondas don't.

I'm trying to get a feel for others' reasoning on why they picked a 3-series (2008 335i 4-door, in my situation, but would love to hear about why you chose a 325/328) over an Acura TL (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=896054&page=6#).



I could have saved over $100/mo. if I had gone with the Acura TL. It drove great and was a beautiful car. However, in the end, it was all about the looks. I like a car that looks aggressive and that people notice. To me, that car was NOT the TL. It was too non-descript and Honda-like in appearance. I went for the 328xi coupe. It is completely eye-catching, and I see people checking it out all the time. To me, it is worth it to pay a little extra to have a car that makes me happy every time I see it.

My e92 is my daily commuter car. It replaced a 2008 Civic EX Coupe. Wasn't too happy with the power of the Civic and I always wanted to try a BMW. My weekend car is an '07 Lexus LS460.

I had a Mazda RX-8 for the last 4 years and it was a great car and I had a blast with it. Took it to the track, autocross and drag strip. It was an amazing all around car with very high handling limits. It was light and well balanced, very tossable and you always felt like you were in complete control. The lack of low end torque eventually because very frustrating to me and I got tired of the car. I never had a problem with the 8 except having the cat replaced under warranty.

The need for torque led me to the 335i. I probably would not have bought a 328 or an M3, so the 335 was right in the middle both in terms of performance and price so it was a perfect fit for me. I miss the handling of the RX-8, but the incredible power and torque completely makes up for it. Plus the style of the coupe and the overall package and fit and finish is far superior. I have no complaints.

I'm just curious to see what everyone had before their first 3 series..

I had been wanting a BMW as long as I can remember but could not justify it for one reason or the other so I drove a "reliable" Toyota for many years. As it is I am finally at a point in my life where I felt I can reasonable say it's time..and it's been a great ride (literally...) ever since..

I'm truly a "newbie" but learning fast..my brother-in-law and various friends have been in the Bimmer realm for years and now I know what they have been enthusing about all these years!

So..just out of curiosity...what were your reasons for getting your 1st BMW 3 series (circa 2006 +) and what did you drive before?

I drove a 2002 Audi A4 1.8 turbo, my first German car, and enjoyed it. I liked the car a lot, but was diappointed with the power. About 2 years ago I had some mods done, a chip, larger injectors, and exhaust, and really enjoyed the extra power.

When it came time for a new car last year, I went to Audi and realized the 2007/2008 A4 was basically the same as my 2002 car. A test drive revealed turbo lag and frankly it was boring compared to my modified A4.

The main thing I didn't like about the smaller turbo motor was the lack of throttle response. In Southern California, there is a lot of stop and go, so it's better to have low end torque. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy small, high revving turbo motors, but the lack of low end torque was a real turn off.

I started looking into BMW and read an article that tested the 335i on a dyno, and it put out 300 pounds of torque at the rear wheels at 1500 rpm. That kind of torque at such low revs is throttle response heaven. It's not unusual for high performance motors to make gobs of torque, but to make is at 1500 rpm is unreal. This is the stuff that gets you off the line and from stoplight to stoplight in the shortest available time.

So, I've had my Blue 335i sedan (automatic) for 6 months now, and I love it more every day.

Chris

i drove a 2006 nissan maxima...after test driving the 328 coupe i picked it up the next day and parked the maxima down the driveway to collect dust..

2000 Honda Accord - I bought the 335 because it's 500lbs lighter, twice the horsepower, and it's a friggen BMW

Before my first 2005 BMW 325xi, I drove a 2003 VW Jetta GLS. My dream was always a BMW. I read reviews that the maintenance cost was high. BMW's 4 year/50K maintenance coverage really made the purchase more appealing besides all of the other factors like great performance, handling, etc. I do have to confess, I leased the vehicle not financed. Most recently, turned the 2005 325xi in for a 2008 328xi coupe (sports package).

Well, it has been a week and I am still very happy with my choice. I replaced an 01 S60 2.4T with an 06 325i with the sports package, leather, xenon lights, CPO. I was just tired, literally tired of electrical gremlins, constant breakdowns, being talked down at the dealer. The remaining factory warranty and the CPO warranty sealed the deal for me. I looked at the G35 and the Acura, but they just did not drive like the BMW.

here's a jarring change. For my 16th birthday I begged and begged for a 30k mile 06 range rover hse with every option. I got it and 7 months later I HATED the stupid thing. My dad has an 06 Grand Cherokee Overland HEMI he uses to drive back and forth to work so I was finding myself using every excuse to drive his 03 M5 instead of my much more modern RR while he was at work. I loved the way that car look but this monday I traded it in for a LOADED 07 335 sedan and I am sooo happy with my choice. With the market down turn I got $34k for my RR, much less than the $51.5k i paid 7 months and 9500 miles ago but I got this loaded certified 335 w only 21k miles for only $36.9k and it was only 70 miles away from my hometown. its perfect, i love it, and should have listened to my parents and gotten it in the first place. although i could have gotten a new one then i still love my "pre-loved" one. theres no sign of wear, no curb rash, and no dings/scratfces. my dad drove it for the first time today and said, "feels faster than my car"

were a bmw family. mine is our 7th Bimmer. And I cheated on BMW for 7 months and I learned my lesson for good. Only BMW's for me now.

I'm still trying to decide between a MB c350 or the 335. Either way I can't make up my mind til the 335d comes out, and I don't know if I'll like it enough to justify the $10,000 difference when I really like the styling of the Benz.

I drove the C350 before I drove the 335i and I was ready to write a check, but my rational father told me to drive both and I ended up loving the 335 489576724385 times more, even though the price was a bit more.

I had many different cars over the years - none of which compare to my 335xi coupe in any possible way!

I fell in love with the '07 Montego Blue 335i that graced BMW's website when it launched, but it wasn't too practical given that I live in CO. So when the 08 came out in a coupe with x drive I almost crapped my pants. Needless to say it didn't take too long for me to get one. 2008 Montego Blue 335xi Coupe 6mt/sport/cold/premium. The car is better than even I had ever imagined!!!! I'm sold on BMW for life!

Before my 335i, I was driving a 2001 Nissan Pathfinder with a 2" lift and 32" tires. It wasn't the greatest car in the world, but it was a fun truck. As you might guess, it got horrible gas mileage. So I sold it in hope of finding a car with better mileage. I was originally deciding between a 2007 Infiniti G35 sport and a 2006 BMW 330i sport package, but then i found a screamin deal on a low mileage 335i sport package and jumped on it. It had the mileage I wanted and was more powerful than the Infiniti. The G35 was a sweet ride, but the 335i was undoubtedly the better choice.

I drove a 2005 Honda Accord before it was cruelly "total lossed" during an incident with a moron drunk driver. I wanted a BMW for as long as I can remember but I did test drive other cars since my wife was interested in checking out what was on offer. We looked at the Audi A4 2.0T, Subaru Legacy 3.0R, and the Volvo S40. But it was the BMW that took our breath away. I bought a 2008 BMW 328i with premium and sports package but without the iDrive. I am looking forward to the driving pleasure for years to come and am very excited.

I may have a slightly different experience here.

I am actually moving from a 2002 530i to a 2008 335i convertible (on order, due in at end of this month).

In actuality, the 2002 530i is dimensionally very similar to the 2008 335i convertible. The 335i is only 8 inches shorter, about the same width on the outside. Inside, the room in front is virtually the same for both cars, in the rear seat, the 530i is several inches wider at the shoulder height. Even the trunks are not too different in size (335i is about 20% smaller).

With all the size creep that occurs as cars go from generation to generation, it is interesting to see that the last generation 5-series (E39) is basically the same size as the current generation 3-series (E9x).

Stan

I liked the convertible top on the 335. 2 cars for the price of one. Always wanted a convertible; now I'm living somewhere with great year-round weather, I figured it was now or never.

Previous car: '95 Avus Blue M3, bought it CPO in '99. The sound system was not CPO at that time and it was a cheap Sears aftermarket job. Otherwise that car has been flawless.

Before that, a '93 black 325iS. Another perfect car. Lost it in a collision with a bus at 60mph, on a bridge over a deep river. Not my fault - the bus decided it would be where I was and basically merged right into me. I was not hurt, but the car was totalled.

Before that, my first car, a '65 Pontiac GTO. 4-barrel. Still have it, sitting in a garage, waiting to be restored. One of these days. Great car, lots of fun, but not exactly what you'd call refined.