Used BMW Advice

[Draculaw]

Following a previous thread and looking at finances, I'm going to go down the bank/peer-to-peer loan option to purchase a commuter vehicle. Realistically I'll be looking at a maximum of £12k, although less is preferable. I want to get either a 1 series or 2 series. I realise they're not necessarily the best bang for buck, but I like them. My options are:

• 2014 automatic 120d or 118i with ~50-60k miles for approx £10k;
• 2014 automatic 220d with ~80-90k miles for approx £11.5k; or
• 2014 manual 218d with ~45k miles for approx £11.5k

I prefer the look of the 2 series, but the 1 series is significantly cheaper, higher spec and more practical in terms of boot space. I can't afford the 2 series with a lower mileage with a loan and due to the mileage I do (16-17k/annum) PCP or lease isn't really an option either. I do realise the value of a 7 year old 2 series with 140k (at the end of the loan period) is probably higher than a 1 series with 80k, which is attractive.

Is there a reason to get the 2 series over the 1 series, other than the looks? As far as I can tell it's a virtually identical car from a technical perspective, just prettier (imo). The reviews seem to indicate that the 2 series resolves the old 1 series coupe ride quality being a bit naff, but it seems like the newer 1 series models are relatively comfortable. Is going down the route of approved used worth it on a car of that age? It's an extra £1,500 or so for a car of similar age/mileage, but an extra warranty/roadside assistance is good peace of mind. Would it increase long term resale?

Thanks in advance for any comments.

Edited by Draculaw on Friday 20th April 13:50

[ZX10R NIN]

If you're doing 17k per year spec & comfort will be key, also go for the diesel it will be more suited to your needs.

A low spec high mileage 220d will not be worth more than a high spec 120d with 30k less on the clock, the warranty is good for you peace of mind but really won't make a difference come resale time unless you're going to make sure you have some left at the time of sale.

118/120d M Sport

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

218d M Sport

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

218d Sport

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

Find the best 120d M Sport you can find (you can buy a warranty from BMW after if you want) spend money on it when it needs to be spent service it on schedule & you'll benefit when the time comes for you to move it on.

[Draculaw]

Am I right in saying the Sport and M Sport models would be reasonably spec'd vehicles, with the SE now being the entry level? SE was previously a mid-spec wasn't it, with Sport and ES being the entry levels. I'm strongly considering this 218d Sport: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201... - reasonable option?

[tickedon]

Draculaw said:

Am I right in saying the Sport and M Sport models would be reasonably spec'd vehicles, with the SE now being the entry level? SE was previously a mid-spec wasn't it, with Sport and ES being the entry levels. I'm strongly considering this 218d Sport: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201... - reasonable option?

Best to find a price list from that time to get the spec, and more relevant, the extra bling the different trims bring.

But it’s a BMW, the trim makes almost no difference to spec - it’s all about the additional options on the car...

[S54Love]

Draculaw said:

Am I right in saying the Sport and M Sport models would be reasonably spec'd vehicles, with the SE now being the entry level? SE was previously a mid-spec wasn't it, with Sport and ES being the entry levels. I'm strongly considering this 218d Sport: https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201... - reasonable option?

My mother has just bought a 2 series, and although hers is just a regular sport, hers came with options I am almost certain that the vast majority don't have.

Off the top of my head: leather, heated seats, tech pack (LED headlights, comfort access, reversing camera).

I'd look quite carefully at the additional options, as it can completely change the feel of the car imho. If you really aren't certain, then look at the AUC section of BMW's site to get a feel of what to look out for.

[Shiv_P]

Look for pro nav as a minimum, on that autotrader look at those nasty black plastic surrounds on the infotainment.... horrible

[Draculaw]

Pro nav? Is that on the newer (2013 facelift) models or older? Since looking more closely my ideal vehicle might be out of budget (220i with mod cons - sits around £15k at the moment) so I’m tempted to go with an older model and add an aftermarket integrated sat nav.