Buying an E46 Touring

[barchetta_boy]

Guys

Got our first kid on the way and the Mk2 Golf GTI (3 dr) has to go... I want something reasonably interesting to drive, can lug a load or two from ikea, has auto trans. I've narrowed the list down to E46 Touring or Alfa 156 Sportwagon Selespeed.

I think I prefer the E46, but I have some questions for you:

- will £5k buy me a decent car? Don't mind high miles if the condition is right
- is a 330d asking for trouble re turbo etc, would I be better off with a 325 or 330i?
- any particular things to look out for other than the usuals condition, mileage, history etc?

Cheers,

Joel

[giw12]

Have a look at the 3 series forum on www.bmwland.co.uk/talker

I've got a 325i Sport with 115k on the clock. A few wear and tear issues but nothing major. I'd have preferred a 330i though...pretty much the same running costs but quite a bit more clout.

Can't tell you anything about the diesel variant though. Never hankered after one to be honest.

[Targarama]

Just a warning of something to check - make sure that your chosen baby carriage(s) fit into the boot while still allowing anything else to go in. On the Audi A4 and BMW 3 series estates the boots are smaller than you would expect. A 5 series might be a better option with the same engine/running costs.

Edited by Targarama on Wednesday 22 July 09:58

[DaveR]

I've got a 330i Touring with 147k on the clock now. It's been a great car. If the pushchair doesn't fit, you've got the wrong pushchair, not the wrong car!

(the size of some of this baby transportation paraphernalia is farcical now)

[Ciaran]

I too have a 330i Touring, as mentioned before it's an auto and I have to say I really miss my manual. Boot space is quite good, it taken our Quinny Buz quite easily although there wasn't much room left to be honest.