E46 330i Touring values
Discussion
Helping a mate buy a car, I recently sold a 330ci M Sport convertible auto which he drove and liked. Touring as he has a kid on the way.
Lives central London so car used for occasional running around town but mostly longer runs out of town to friends/family etc.
I've suggested avoiding diesel as many problems with 2000-05 ones, petrol cheaper to buy and run in maintenance terms, fuel not a massive issue as doing less than 6k miles a year.
So spec is E46 330ci M sport Touring - budget £6k max. Very aware large petrol engine prices are in freefall generally.
What does anyone think of this one on autotrader, good miles, and spec, it has been for sale for 3-4 weeks and reduced recently. Current asking £5850, I'd be looking to have a deal closer to £5k as he must be getting desperate to shift it.
Thoughts on car/value/alternatives appreciated.
cheers all
Lives central London so car used for occasional running around town but mostly longer runs out of town to friends/family etc.
I've suggested avoiding diesel as many problems with 2000-05 ones, petrol cheaper to buy and run in maintenance terms, fuel not a massive issue as doing less than 6k miles a year.
So spec is E46 330ci M sport Touring - budget £6k max. Very aware large petrol engine prices are in freefall generally.
What does anyone think of this one on autotrader, good miles, and spec, it has been for sale for 3-4 weeks and reduced recently. Current asking £5850, I'd be looking to have a deal closer to £5k as he must be getting desperate to shift it.
Thoughts on car/value/alternatives appreciated.
cheers all
That one has the appalling business sat nav - no maps, basically just an arrow in that small screen on the stereo. Other than that the spec's pretty bare; the usual leather and auto box but no heated seats, Xenons etc.
I spent quite a while looking for a 330i Sport Touring last year (September to December in the end); I was happy with more miles on the clock depending on the history being comprehensive. Ended up with a 2002 car with 92k for £4,200 - with CD player (in dash+changer), xenons, heated seats and electric sunroof plus still under extended BMW warranty, full (and I mean really full) history including a fairly new complete set of tyres from a main dealer, that sort of thing.
You're paying for the mileage on that one - I think the price is very toppy and the rest of the car doesn't justify paying a premium for the low mileage.
I spent quite a while looking for a 330i Sport Touring last year (September to December in the end); I was happy with more miles on the clock depending on the history being comprehensive. Ended up with a 2002 car with 92k for £4,200 - with CD player (in dash+changer), xenons, heated seats and electric sunroof plus still under extended BMW warranty, full (and I mean really full) history including a fairly new complete set of tyres from a main dealer, that sort of thing.
You're paying for the mileage on that one - I think the price is very toppy and the rest of the car doesn't justify paying a premium for the low mileage.
would you consider a 325i touring...
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2011...
Looks immaculate.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2011...
Looks immaculate.
Vroomer said:
Disagree with poster above.
Condition and mileage make that a good buy.
However, this is subject to an 'Inspection' service not being imminent.
You disagree with my opinion that it's overpriced? Well how about this same age/colour dealer car with lower mileage up for the same price: Clicky? That one's been for sale for quite a while too.Condition and mileage make that a good buy.
However, this is subject to an 'Inspection' service not being imminent.
I gave a figure for what I paid last year - my car was bought from a trader and when I spoke to the previous owner he'd been given £3k for it as a trade-in. As I said before, I don't think the spec of that one justifies any premium for the low mileage.
That's without seeing the condition of the driver's seat, too, because it is very easy to clock them.
When I looked for my 330i Touring (2002 model, 3 owner from new, just hit 90k last week) - I was more interested in the car's provenance and ensuring everything tallied up than the spec.
Whilst I like my toys, heated seats are often the first to stop working, electric seats add weight and mechanisms can be expensive to repair, BMW audio who cares what's installed as even CDs are old tech these days with pretty much everyone using ipod/MP3 players
Maybe this is because the 330 is a workhorse for us so we're more inclined to just want a hassle free car than one with goodies for now...
I would like to get rid of those AWFUL BMW speakers and head unit though I must admit!
IF it's a car that's been aspired to then I can fully see how these things are more important... not really thinking anyone really aspires to an e46 touring though (as good as they are, and I really do think they're excellent drivers)
Whilst I like my toys, heated seats are often the first to stop working, electric seats add weight and mechanisms can be expensive to repair, BMW audio who cares what's installed as even CDs are old tech these days with pretty much everyone using ipod/MP3 players
Maybe this is because the 330 is a workhorse for us so we're more inclined to just want a hassle free car than one with goodies for now...
I would like to get rid of those AWFUL BMW speakers and head unit though I must admit!
IF it's a car that's been aspired to then I can fully see how these things are more important... not really thinking anyone really aspires to an e46 touring though (as good as they are, and I really do think they're excellent drivers)
Jobbo said:
Vroomer said:
Disagree with poster above.
Condition and mileage make that a good buy.
However, this is subject to an 'Inspection' service not being imminent.
You disagree with my opinion that it's overpriced? Well how about this same age/colour dealer car with lower mileage up for the same price: Clicky? Condition and mileage make that a good buy.
However, this is subject to an 'Inspection' service not being imminent.
SBN said:
would you consider a 325i touring...
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2011...
Looks immaculate.
He's set on a 330 and also I wouldn't buy a red one - hard to sell. Hence price on that, I'd say it would be £500 more in black/silver/grey/blue.http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2011...
Looks immaculate.
Jobbo said:
You disagree with my opinion that it's overpriced? Well how about this same age/colour dealer car with lower mileage up for the same price: Clicky? That one's been for sale for quite a while too.
I gave a figure for what I paid last year - my car was bought from a trader and when I spoke to the previous owner he'd been given £3k for it as a trade-in. As I said before, I don't think the spec of that one justifies any premium for the low mileage.
That's without seeing the condition of the driver's seat, too, because it is very easy to clock them.
That's an SE not an M Sport, I think (judging by the alloys, it should have MV's if its a M Sport). Perhaps an M Sport touring is a contradiction for some but that's what he wants...I gave a figure for what I paid last year - my car was bought from a trader and when I spoke to the previous owner he'd been given £3k for it as a trade-in. As I said before, I don't think the spec of that one justifies any premium for the low mileage.
That's without seeing the condition of the driver's seat, too, because it is very easy to clock them.
Jobbo said:
That one has the appalling business sat nav - no maps, basically just an arrow in that small screen on the stereo. Other than that the spec's pretty bare; the usual leather and auto box but no heated seats, Xenons etc.
Thanks, I was thinking that business sat nav must be rubbish because the 'professional' colour map iDrive one in my own E60 isn't great compared to a 2011 tom tom....But I figure he can just ignore that Sat Nav and stick a Tom Tom up when required right? Or does is affect / b*gger up the whole stereo....
Agree it is a little poverty on xenons etc but mileage is the most important thing for my man. Next service dependent of course.
Thanks all for the input, will report back on how we get on.
As a comparison...
I bought mine for £4400 in March of this year and it has:
2002 BMW 330i M Sport Touring
Topaz Blue
Automatic (steptronic)
3 owners
83,000 miles
Full service history with all stamps, plenty of invoices to tally up
Previous owners print outs of the car as a AUC and sale invoices
Other receipts for ancillaries such as tyres plus old tax discs, MOT certs, etc.,
All tool kit, manuals, first aid kit, torch in glove box in full order and working
Full leather interior (beige/cream)
BMW business (the tape deck one)
iPod integration via professionally fitted AUX cable
Trip computer
Electric windows
Climate control
Electric mirrors
Cruise Control
Parking distance Control
Dynamic Stability Control
Multi-function steering wheel
Rear luggage cover and guard (like a dog guard but nylon not metal)
No electric or heated seats, nothing special about the audio system, no Xenons. Only thing it needed right from the word go was 2 new tyres and a 4 wheel alignment.
Might be useful for him to use as some kind of guide to real world prices rather than asking prices.
I bought mine for £4400 in March of this year and it has:
2002 BMW 330i M Sport Touring
Topaz Blue
Automatic (steptronic)
3 owners
83,000 miles
Full service history with all stamps, plenty of invoices to tally up
Previous owners print outs of the car as a AUC and sale invoices
Other receipts for ancillaries such as tyres plus old tax discs, MOT certs, etc.,
All tool kit, manuals, first aid kit, torch in glove box in full order and working
Full leather interior (beige/cream)
BMW business (the tape deck one)
iPod integration via professionally fitted AUX cable
Trip computer
Electric windows
Climate control
Electric mirrors
Cruise Control
Parking distance Control
Dynamic Stability Control
Multi-function steering wheel
Rear luggage cover and guard (like a dog guard but nylon not metal)
No electric or heated seats, nothing special about the audio system, no Xenons. Only thing it needed right from the word go was 2 new tyres and a 4 wheel alignment.
Might be useful for him to use as some kind of guide to real world prices rather than asking prices.
Thanks Dubbs, sounds like nice car and good deal. Where did you find it - autotrader, on here, other?
He's not in a massive rush and personally I think its best to wait for the right car, but there aren't that many around so the 'stock' doesn't turnover quick. He'll wait weeks but not months.
He's not in a massive rush and personally I think its best to wait for the right car, but there aren't that many around so the 'stock' doesn't turnover quick. He'll wait weeks but not months.
eastsider said:
Jobbo said:
You disagree with my opinion that it's overpriced? Well how about this same age/colour dealer car with lower mileage up for the same price: Clicky? That one's been for sale for quite a while too.
I gave a figure for what I paid last year - my car was bought from a trader and when I spoke to the previous owner he'd been given £3k for it as a trade-in. As I said before, I don't think the spec of that one justifies any premium for the low mileage.
That's without seeing the condition of the driver's seat, too, because it is very easy to clock them.
That's an SE not an M Sport, I think (judging by the alloys, it should have MV's if its a M Sport). Perhaps an M Sport touring is a contradiction for some but that's what he wants...I gave a figure for what I paid last year - my car was bought from a trader and when I spoke to the previous owner he'd been given £3k for it as a trade-in. As I said before, I don't think the spec of that one justifies any premium for the low mileage.
That's without seeing the condition of the driver's seat, too, because it is very easy to clock them.
dubbs said:
As a comparison...
I bought mine for £4400 in March of this year and it has:
2002 BMW 330i M Sport Touring
Topaz Blue
Automatic (steptronic)
3 owners
83,000 miles
Full service history with all stamps, plenty of invoices to tally up
Previous owners print outs of the car as a AUC and sale invoices
Other receipts for ancillaries such as tyres plus old tax discs, MOT certs, etc.,
All tool kit, manuals, first aid kit, torch in glove box in full order and working
Full leather interior (beige/cream)
BMW business (the tape deck one)
iPod integration via professionally fitted AUX cable
Trip computer
Electric windows
Climate control
Electric mirrors
Cruise Control
Parking distance Control
Dynamic Stability Control
Multi-function steering wheel
Rear luggage cover and guard (like a dog guard but nylon not metal)
No electric or heated seats, nothing special about the audio system, no Xenons. Only thing it needed right from the word go was 2 new tyres and a 4 wheel alignment.
Might be useful for him to use as some kind of guide to real world prices rather than asking prices.
Glad you're happy with it - I would think today the OP should not want to be looking to spend more than 5k for a below average miles example even with the optional extras.I bought mine for £4400 in March of this year and it has:
2002 BMW 330i M Sport Touring
Topaz Blue
Automatic (steptronic)
3 owners
83,000 miles
Full service history with all stamps, plenty of invoices to tally up
Previous owners print outs of the car as a AUC and sale invoices
Other receipts for ancillaries such as tyres plus old tax discs, MOT certs, etc.,
All tool kit, manuals, first aid kit, torch in glove box in full order and working
Full leather interior (beige/cream)
BMW business (the tape deck one)
iPod integration via professionally fitted AUX cable
Trip computer
Electric windows
Climate control
Electric mirrors
Cruise Control
Parking distance Control
Dynamic Stability Control
Multi-function steering wheel
Rear luggage cover and guard (like a dog guard but nylon not metal)
No electric or heated seats, nothing special about the audio system, no Xenons. Only thing it needed right from the word go was 2 new tyres and a 4 wheel alignment.
Might be useful for him to use as some kind of guide to real world prices rather than asking prices.
Went to see two this morning, first the blue one on autotrader (link in my first post). Now asking £5750. Bodywork in good condition but needs 4 tyres (all illegal), tax expires in 2 weeks, front brake pads (and prob brake fluid change while you are there) very soon. In addition seller confessed battery had been flat - through lack of use he said, he'd jumped it then run it and started ok, but could need new battery or worse alternator.
"Full history" as in stamps in book - from all over the country, no receipts (including no paperwork for the 'inspection 2' his mate had apparently done; only one MOT. Seller revealed he paid £8k for it March 2010, and apparently turned down £6k offer in July!!!
I advised my mate £4750 tops, even then I had reservations. Seller obviously not interested despite fact it needs 4 tyres (£400 for a reasonable set) plus £250 tax tomorrow. We walked. If anyone gives him more than £5k they are more stupid than us.
We then viewed this one which I had high hopes for. Keeping it short, much better car and history, but I have never seen such a scratched car. Must have been 50+ scratches of several inches or more, all over it. One side particularly bad, but something significant on every panel. His lowest was £4250 - I'm not very knowledgeable on bodywork repairs and what it would cost to tidy up to an acceptable standard but advised my mate I'd want £500 min off, so again we walked. You think he might have mentioned the bodywork being that bad on the phone!!
Productive morning in learning what's out there but nothing purchased. If anyone spots a good one would appreciate a heads up!
"Full history" as in stamps in book - from all over the country, no receipts (including no paperwork for the 'inspection 2' his mate had apparently done; only one MOT. Seller revealed he paid £8k for it March 2010, and apparently turned down £6k offer in July!!!
I advised my mate £4750 tops, even then I had reservations. Seller obviously not interested despite fact it needs 4 tyres (£400 for a reasonable set) plus £250 tax tomorrow. We walked. If anyone gives him more than £5k they are more stupid than us.
We then viewed this one which I had high hopes for. Keeping it short, much better car and history, but I have never seen such a scratched car. Must have been 50+ scratches of several inches or more, all over it. One side particularly bad, but something significant on every panel. His lowest was £4250 - I'm not very knowledgeable on bodywork repairs and what it would cost to tidy up to an acceptable standard but advised my mate I'd want £500 min off, so again we walked. You think he might have mentioned the bodywork being that bad on the phone!!
Productive morning in learning what's out there but nothing purchased. If anyone spots a good one would appreciate a heads up!
100k on the clock but looks well spec'd and is a face lift model. http://www2.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...
I have just bought one almost identicle to the one that eastsider has included a link to. The only difference is it's on a 51 plate so it's pre face lift.
Xenons, sunroof, orient blue, grey leather, rear PDC, Auto etc etc and paid £5,300 with 6 months tax thrown in. It's done 53k miles and I feel like I've got an absolute steal for the money. It's a lot of car for just north of £5k. You just have to trawl the ad's to find the right one.
They are sweet to drive and although not outrageously quick, it's a great way to make progress with the engine being punchy and as smooth as it is. Makes a lovely noise too :-)
Xenons, sunroof, orient blue, grey leather, rear PDC, Auto etc etc and paid £5,300 with 6 months tax thrown in. It's done 53k miles and I feel like I've got an absolute steal for the money. It's a lot of car for just north of £5k. You just have to trawl the ad's to find the right one.
They are sweet to drive and although not outrageously quick, it's a great way to make progress with the engine being punchy and as smooth as it is. Makes a lovely noise too :-)
having moved from the e46 330i sport touring to its larger sibling the e39 sport touring albeit with a 2.5 unit i can safely say that the air suspension and the power to weight diff makes a huge difference in the driving experience
were it not for the growing family empire the e46 330 sport touring would be on the drive again. it does everything you need for a family barge and for around 5g i cant think of better value motoring.
good luck with the search you'll find the right one im sure. when you do be sure to look out for replacement windscreens as well as the other usual gremlins
were it not for the growing family empire the e46 330 sport touring would be on the drive again. it does everything you need for a family barge and for around 5g i cant think of better value motoring.
good luck with the search you'll find the right one im sure. when you do be sure to look out for replacement windscreens as well as the other usual gremlins
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