335i Convertible - Any other competition?
Discussion
Hi all,
So I think I hopefully have finally decided on a new car after 7 years of finding little reason to sell my Saab, but I think its time to try and move on.
Requirements are as follows:
• Seats 4 comfortably.
• Convertible. (I know they are going to not be as good around the bends and wobble a bit, but I still remember my e30 325i as been one of my favourite cars, and it was the 8pm on a summers day roof off that has the fondest memories).
• Fast (the faster the better)
• Insurance group no concerns
• Not so concerned about NA or Turbo. I like both.
• Fuel economy no concerns
• Running costs, needs to be reasonable given my low use but not pinch penny. I have owned TVR's though, so if the car is right then I might not care so much about this.
• Under or around 15K
• Less than 60K, more for the components than engine worries. The less the better.
I thought about S4's, Possibly RS4 (but with a remap (I know..) I actually think the 335 will be a better car for less money. Can’t really think of any other real options other than a E46 M3.
Thanks
So I think I hopefully have finally decided on a new car after 7 years of finding little reason to sell my Saab, but I think its time to try and move on.
Requirements are as follows:
• Seats 4 comfortably.
• Convertible. (I know they are going to not be as good around the bends and wobble a bit, but I still remember my e30 325i as been one of my favourite cars, and it was the 8pm on a summers day roof off that has the fondest memories).
• Fast (the faster the better)
• Insurance group no concerns
• Not so concerned about NA or Turbo. I like both.
• Fuel economy no concerns
• Running costs, needs to be reasonable given my low use but not pinch penny. I have owned TVR's though, so if the car is right then I might not care so much about this.
• Under or around 15K
• Less than 60K, more for the components than engine worries. The less the better.
I thought about S4's, Possibly RS4 (but with a remap (I know..) I actually think the 335 will be a better car for less money. Can’t really think of any other real options other than a E46 M3.
Thanks
When I was looking and had to have 4 seats it really came down to the 335i or S4. I wasn't bothered about a convertible so also considered an S5, but on almost every level I preferred the BMW.
Beyond the Audi and BMW you could look at the E-Class Merc convertible (never tried one so can't comment) or VW GTi convertible (but if you want fast and your budget is <£15k it's probably not a viable option).
I haven't been disappointed with the BMW, but am now looking at what else I can get with more power after 5 years of ownership... then again I could 'chip' the 335i...
Beyond the Audi and BMW you could look at the E-Class Merc convertible (never tried one so can't comment) or VW GTi convertible (but if you want fast and your budget is <£15k it's probably not a viable option).
I haven't been disappointed with the BMW, but am now looking at what else I can get with more power after 5 years of ownership... then again I could 'chip' the 335i...
kinghottinger said:
Out of interest, in what way would you consider that to be better other than maybe in rarity? BlueEyedBoy said:
Out of interest, in what way would you consider that to be better other than maybe in rarity?
If you don't care about fuel economy, the engine is in a different league, IMO. The BMW engine is immensely impressive, but it's not very inspiring. The Mustang's V8 is crude but lovely. 
Still, my money would be going on an E46 M3 if the rear seats are big enough.
Edited by kambites on Monday 2nd June 16:39
Darlo74 said:
When I was looking and had to have 4 seats it really came down to the 335i or S4. I wasn't bothered about a convertible so also considered an S5, but on almost every level I preferred the BMW.
Beyond the Audi and BMW you could look at the E-Class Merc convertible (never tried one so can't comment) or VW GTi convertible (but if you want fast and your budget is <£15k it's probably not a viable option).
I haven't been disappointed with the BMW, but am now looking at what else I can get with more power after 5 years of ownership... then again I could 'chip' the 335i...
To be honest, that is why the BMW is more of interest, if I get bored for relatively little I can keep upping the power and I tend to keep cars a long time. The S4 and RS4 are both fairly restricted on power increase, and also internet stories abour RS4 running costs worry me. I also don't think the Merc's will be as good for a number of aspects. Beyond the Audi and BMW you could look at the E-Class Merc convertible (never tried one so can't comment) or VW GTi convertible (but if you want fast and your budget is <£15k it's probably not a viable option).
I haven't been disappointed with the BMW, but am now looking at what else I can get with more power after 5 years of ownership... then again I could 'chip' the 335i...
We already have a golf, so don't want another one in the family
BlueEyedBoy said:
Out of interest, in what way would you consider that to be better other than maybe in rarity?
Joy of ownership, character, power, fun, simplicity, robustness, customizability, styling, sound, fuel economy, lots of factory shortgeared manuals, owners' clubs, lifestyle clothing, internet resources, California dreaming, hot rods, muscle cars and jukeboxes.And stuff.
GT = 4.6 V8 with ca. 300 or so ca. 20-25mpg
Edited by kinghottinger on Monday 2nd June 16:46
For the current prices on used 335i they are amazing value performance per £ (we sold 2007 335i convertible with full spec, Fsh and 50k miles for £11k in Dec).
Manual is more fun but auto is good make sure it has paddles ( not all SE do). My current 335i is on 190k miles (still on original turbos, clutch, suspension and drives great).
Be aware of potential turbo waste gate rattle which is expensive to fix ( replace turbos) - when starting from cold it will make an annoying rattle and will eventually result in low boost pressure.
Manual is more fun but auto is good make sure it has paddles ( not all SE do). My current 335i is on 190k miles (still on original turbos, clutch, suspension and drives great).
Be aware of potential turbo waste gate rattle which is expensive to fix ( replace turbos) - when starting from cold it will make an annoying rattle and will eventually result in low boost pressure.
dme123 said:
Have you considered a 6 series? I'm considering a convertible 650i and they have depreciated very nicely indeed. Much more room for your rear passengers!
I have been looking at the 650's but discounted them on an assumption it would cost more to fix if it went wrong and prefer the look of the msport 335.But you're right, great potential value for money.
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