Very hard decision

[rdkind62]

First, let me say that I have been on this forum since I heard about the 1 series and I have considered myself a 1 addict from the start, but now a have a decision to make. Prior to hearing of the 1, I was seriously considering the 328xi. I like the xi version because I live in Colorado Springs and I do have to deal with snow on occasion. While I am not a horsepower junkie like many of you here I do like a car with a little get up and go when I want it, and I also like luxury. With that being said, if I was to get the 1 series it would be the 128 fully loaded (minus nav) at about $38,000. Now I have found a 2007 328xi with about 10,000 miles on it with the exact same options I would want on my 128. The difference in price is only a couple of hundred dollars. I honestly like the look of the 328 more, but I also like the idea of a new car with no miles. Opinions?

[backtoreality15]

Two solid test drives should get you closer to a decision. The two cars feel very different. (Also think about the necessity of practicality)

[Bullitt]

It looks like it comes down to a test drive of each! I personally think the 1 series is more fun to drive because of its size and weight.

[Dan203]

I'd never buy a used car that costs $38K! Even if that's $10K less then new I'd still rather have the peace of mind that comes from knowing I'm the only one who has ever driven the car.

Dan

[jbenington86]

knowing that someone didnt kick the crap out of it before you.....the same reason I bought mine brand new

[BMW Dreamer]

Your choice, go drive them both. A dealer sent me an e-mail. A NEW 328xi, 2 door coupe, auto, leather, premium pkg for $41k.
Nice car, but I think I want more power.

You really need to put some time in the drivers seats of the cars you are comparing, thats the only way.

[TP 135i]

WARRANTY...? Is there any on the 328? Is it Certified Pre Owned from a dealer or is it from a private person.
For me these issues would make or break the decision.
No warranty on the 328 = buy the 128 without a doubt

[buckwheat986]

I'm in the minority but IMO..

135 (with dedicated snows)>328xi>128i

there is nothing wrong with buying a 2007...esp if CPO..

everyone talks about having the new car....but they always fail to mention the depreciation hit....

buying CPO cars is far different then buying used....

[rdkind62]

Originally Posted by TP 135i

WARRANTY...? Is there any on the 328? Is it Certified Pre Owned from a dealer or is it from a private person.
For me these issues would make or break the decision.
No warranty on the 328 = buy the 128 without a doubt

Yes the 328 is a CPO with about 40K left on the warranty.

[TP 135i]

Originally Posted by rdkind62

Yes the 328 is a CPO with about 40K left on the warranty.

In that case buy the 328xi........you seem to like it better and it may serve your needs better in the winter season.
And...as others have said, you don't take that initial depreciation hit on it's value.

Just my opinion...of course

[imported_Dodgy]

^+1

But, what sort of person are you. Are you a 'heart' or 'head' person.

Head- 325
Heart-128

[peppebmw]

Originally Posted by Dan203

I'd never buy a used car that costs $38K! Even if that's $10K less then new I'd still rather have the peace of mind that comes from knowing I'm the only one who has ever driven the car.

Dan

I'm with you on this one Dan.

[ptack]

Sounds like dollars and weather would make this a no-brainer. The only reason you must be asking is because you've been bit. Just to make it worse, don't forget to factor in a set of winter wheels into the 128i price. If you could swing about $5000k more, you should consider an A5 (gorgeous look, drives just like a 128, quattro). Logically it makes no sense over a CPO 328xi, but this is all about passion isn't it?

[rdkind62]

Originally Posted by Dodgy

^+1

But, what sort of person are you. Are you a 'heart' or 'head' person.

Head- 325
Heart-128

I am a head person. I almost always make the pratical decision. One thing I did not mention before is I also have two 4x4 SUV's that I can drive if the weather is that bad. I don't have to drive a car if I don't need to. Just try not driving the SUV's much.

[rdkind62]

Originally Posted by ptack

Sounds like dollars and weather would make this a no-brainer. The only reason you must be asking is because you've been bit. Just to make it worse, don't forget to factor in a set of winter wheels into the 128i price. If you could swing about $5000k more, you should consider an A5 (gorgeous look, drives just like a 128, quattro). Logically it makes no sense over a CPO 328xi, but this is all about passion isn't it?

Honestly, the A5 is the only other make of car I considered. I know it will be a coupe but I do not like the look of the G37 or 350Z so that really narrows down my choices.

[TP 135i]

Originally Posted by rdkind62

I am a head person. I almost always make the pratical decision. One thing I did not mention before is I also have two 4x4 SUV's that I can drive if the weather is that bad. I don't have to drive a car if I don't need to. Just try not driving the SUV's much.

WELL....that just changed the whole thread

Now I just changed my "vote" to the 128 since during really bad weather you have the SUV's to drive.
If you limit the SUV's to the snow days you really shouldn't rack up too many miles. I'm doing that myself (In Maryland which, I admit is different from where you are). I find that I still have to drive my SUV on occasion just to keep it from sitting too long (not too good to just let it sit for months on end).

[ScottyGams]

you have 2 SUVs already? 128 then for the nice days! if it feels dangerous, pull out the off-roaders!

[TagMan]

I recommend that you seriously consider the 135i... Have you driven any of the 1ers at all? Given your situation, it would seem the vehicle you are after is the 135i. Go drive it! If you've really been reading this website, then you know why I suggest this!

[Crowley]

Originally Posted by backtoreality15

Two solid test drives should get you closer to a decision. The two cars feel very different. (Also think about the necessity of practicality)

I would agree . .test drive them and go from there ... in the end you have to be happy with which way you go.

thanks,
Crowley

[Jumpman]

Was going to say 3er, but since you have the SUVs, get the 1er.

[rdkind62]

Originally Posted by TagMan

I recommend that you seriously consider the 135i... Have you driven any of the 1ers at all? Given your situation, it would seem the vehicle you are after is the 135i. Go drive it! If you've really been reading this website, then you know why I suggest this!

Unfortunatley I have been living vicariously through the rest of you for months now. I am in Iraq, but I come home in 9 days. WOOHOO. I get home on a Sunday and expect to be test driving on Mon. and Tues.

[white911]

Colorado Springs, 6000 feet and up -- You almost can't go to lower altitude where the normally aspirated car can breath. I would have to pick the turbo for the altitude; turbo car in the mountains as long as it has long term reliability at altitude.