Is a BMW 130i worth buying.
Discussion
Hi guys, I am new to this site and keen to get some advice. I am considering buying a BMW 130i. It's the only package which offers RWD, and a naturally aspirated 3.0 Cylinder engine in a hatchback. There is no replacement for displacement! I am aware the VW Golf R32 is the closet rival but I'm not a VW guy. I live in Cornwall/ Devon and I am blessed with some fantastic roads that are calling for me to hoon!
My main concern is what is the car like to live with day to day? Particularly fuel economy, build quality, interior space, common faults and most importantly performance. I have debated buying this car for a few months now and all being well will be ready and willing to purchase in the summer.
The most significant reviews have highlighted the need to purchase a post 2007 model (Facelift with active steering and efficient dynamics) these are clearly more expensive so I'm keen to know if the increase in price will be justified by a significantly better motor. This is clearly one of the most controversial models BMW has ever made and I am made very aware that many people hate the look of this car, but for me, the RWD and 50/50 weight distribution make for a perfect compromise, so personally I am not too concerned with peoples opinions of the design. I will only purchase a model in M Sport trim. I am also very interested if anyone has any advice on aftermarket exhausts on this car.
I look forward to hopefully hearing some replies as they will figure highly in my potential purchase.
Thanks and happy hooning!
My main concern is what is the car like to live with day to day? Particularly fuel economy, build quality, interior space, common faults and most importantly performance. I have debated buying this car for a few months now and all being well will be ready and willing to purchase in the summer.
The most significant reviews have highlighted the need to purchase a post 2007 model (Facelift with active steering and efficient dynamics) these are clearly more expensive so I'm keen to know if the increase in price will be justified by a significantly better motor. This is clearly one of the most controversial models BMW has ever made and I am made very aware that many people hate the look of this car, but for me, the RWD and 50/50 weight distribution make for a perfect compromise, so personally I am not too concerned with peoples opinions of the design. I will only purchase a model in M Sport trim. I am also very interested if anyone has any advice on aftermarket exhausts on this car.
I look forward to hopefully hearing some replies as they will figure highly in my potential purchase.
Thanks and happy hooning!
I haven't had one but last year I got rid of the 123d I had owned for 6 years and bought a Z4 Coupe which has the same N52 engine as the 130i - all I can say is if I had test driven a 130i I could have had a much more enjoyable 6 years!
Anyway the link below should take you to a thread from a fellow PH'er who has bought one and is loving his.
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=15&...
Good luck!
Anyway the link below should take you to a thread from a fellow PH'er who has bought one and is loving his.
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=15&...
Good luck!
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