Downsizing; which BMW - if at all?

[kurt535]

Hello all.

I currently drive a gorgeous 535D that stole my heart a year ago but, due to likely house move to a city with limited parking choices, I am questioning should I actually be downsizing to a 1 Series and embracing the future.

However, there appears to be a myriad of 1 Series options out there so am trying to learn what's good bad and ugly. Principally, it would need to transport me, my GF and 11 y/o son so a 4 door seems the only thing i have worked out.

I never buy new; preferring to hunt down low mileage models, sometimes a few years old (e.g. '09 plate 535D now has only 20k on it with BMW warranty still) . Other concern is, GF drives a 09 plate Fiesta that does what it says on the tin so am also thinking, do we need two cars?

Anyway, thoughts from people who have been in similar situation or can see daylight, love to hear from you!

Thank you in advance.

[Smuler]

kurt535 said:

Hello all.

I currently drive a gorgeous 535D that stole my heart a year ago but, due to likely house move to a city with limited parking choices, I am questioning should I actually be downsizing to a 1 Series and embracing the future.

However, there appears to be a myriad of 1 Series options out there so am trying to learn what's good bad and ugly. Principally, it would need to transport me, my GF and 11 y/o son so a 4 door seems the only thing i have worked out.

I never buy new; preferring to hunt down low mileage models, sometimes a few years old (e.g. '09 plate 535D now has only 20k on it with BMW warranty still) . Other concern is, GF drives a 09 plate Fiesta that does what it says on the tin so am also thinking, do we need two cars?

Anyway, thoughts from people who have been in similar situation or can see daylight, love to hear from you!

Thank you in advance.

My GF lives in a city centre meaning probably more limited parking options (than you'll experience) as I am a non resident and therefore shouldn't - though I do selectively- park in residents' spaces which make up the majority of the street.

It is easier having a smaller car, I've missed out on spaces cos of having a 3 series and you would miss a few more with the 5. Sensors help, plus skill, and not worrying if someone parking too close nicks your bumper. Hardwiring a dash cam can catch any hit and runners

But anyways, I still think you'd have an easier life with one car, even a 5 series, than having to find spaces for 2?

As the 5 meets the size/transport/family needs, and you like it, why not save some cash and trade the Fiesta? If that's not possible, maybe trading both could mean a better BMW for you,

There is no 4 door 1 series, only hatch 3 and 5 doors. I think they are FUGLY and having managed 3 years of 3 series' parking in a busy street, don't see why you couldn't manage a 3 if you downsize.

[kurt535]

Hey thank you for the viewpoint. Damaged paintwork just sent shudders up my spine but a fair point, as is having a dash cam!

[Smuler]

kurt535 said:

Hey thank you for the viewpoint. Damaged paintwork just sent shudders up my spine but a fair point, as is having a dash cam!

Sadly, in street parking, it's pretty common. Saw a gashed 65 plate Merc there today

even if you just have a dash cam on the front, keep the audio on and you can get evidence even in a rear shunt. For example, noise of the bump, transgressors maybe having passed by, maybe looking around and a good audio of what's said

[hornetrider]

Saw a 225d today. Wouldn't buy one myself as I prefer big cars but it was quite nice.

[kurt535]

maybe i just refuse to move?

[Mr Tidy]

kurt535 said:

maybe i just refuse to move?

Good plan! OH may not be so keen but there is always another one - bit like buses!