Topic: BMW 328i? Alternatives?

[Julie]

Is it worth 10K more than the G?    I am a first-timer into the sport/luxury arena. Didn't really even consider the M but I'll give it a look 

The M is such a sexy car.  Is it worth more than the G?  That depends on what you are looking for.  The M35x has the same V6 engine as the G, but the vehicle is larger and offers a bit more fancy dancy in the interior.  The G35x would be a fantastic choice and will satisfy the luxury desires and keep the sporty man fueled up.  The M is more of an exec car, offering more room for passengers, and more panache in styling.  It's not as sporty in my opinion.  I haven't driven the new G nor the M, but the M is high on my list if I can convince the wife that a sedan will do us fine.  I'd be all over it by now.....

Not sure what a Volvo S60R runs in the states, but that can also be a consideration.

Aaahhh, I agree, the M is gorgeous, and looks every bit its price......

[Incredible_NATE]

I rode in my cousin's M35x and it is just a gorgeous car. I would get this over a Lexus ES350. It was very roomy at the back and I just love the car! From the front, it reminds me of a BMW 5 series (shape of the lights in a way).

It's pretty big and apparantely handles well for its size. I love that gearshifter! It's sooo small and just well designed.

[brywihifi]

Adding it up, this is one of the best threads ever.

Lets see, start with some great cars just beyond the average person's reach, together with a whole lot of dreaming and drooling, add multiple comparo test drives with more need to know detail and 'what was it really like' than the best car mags, throw in some dealer experiences and price add-on 'behind the scenes' info. Then follow the decision process to purchasing including the why's and emotional upgrades 

The thing is like a good novel !   

Thanks to the prime participants!

I agree Doug. The feedback on this board will help me to make the best decision possible on a car that is right for me come Spring. AND allow me to "dream and drool" (that's great  ) a little as well. My thanks to all for your well-informed opinions   

[brywihifi]

Not sure what a Volvo S60R runs in the states, but that can also be a consideration.

US$39,000 with no options (has leather seats but no sunroof, non-metallic paint, etc).  I can equip it up to US$50,000 if I check all of the options boxes.  Total rip-off, especially considering that it gets somewhat lackluster handling reviews (at the end of the day, it's still an aging FWD-based car with part-time AWD).

For comparison, the G35 is about US$35,000, nicely equipped, and the 335i starts at US$39,000 with leatherette seats but a sunroof.

Thanks for the numbers on the cars, Mitlov. I agree with you on the Volvo. I have not driven one...mostly because the performance specs on the car along with the reviews do nothing to make me want to hop in one. 

And at the end of the day, for me it's really all about a certain level of performance.

If not...why give up the 4x4 crew cab? 

Decent looks though, especially compared to those "egg crates" they used to produce...

[mdxtasy]

Thanks for the numbers on the cars, Mitlov. I agree with you on the Volvo. I have not driven one...mostly because the performance specs on the car along with the reviews do nothing to make me want to hop in one. 

And at the end of the day, for me it's really all about a certain level of performance.

Decent looks though, especially compared to those "egg crates" they used to produce...

What's the criteria for the performance level?  Big power?  More emphasis on handling? 

[mdxtasy]

Audi A3
Audi A4
BMW 3 series
Cadillac CTS-V
Acura RL
Infiniti G35
Infiniti M35
BMW 5 series
Volvo S60R
VW Passat 4Motion
Lexus IS250
Lexus IS350
Lexus GS350
Mazdaspeed6

[brywihifi]

Thanks for the numbers on the cars, Mitlov. I agree with you on the Volvo. I have not driven one...mostly because the performance specs on the car along with the reviews do nothing to make me want to hop in one. 

And at the end of the day, for me it's really all about a certain level of performance.

Decent looks though, especially compared to those "egg crates" they used to produce...

What's the criteria for the performance level?  Big power?  More emphasis on handling? 

Thanks to Mdx5 for the education. The Volvo does have some giddyup. Probably worth a look... 

Drove the Mazdaspeed6  before anything else. It is a great car...especially at the 30K (US) price point. Just want a little more inside and maybe an automatic for the little lady. Or maybe NOT...