M235i? or something else?

[Monkey_boy]

Having just sold my modified 2006 E92 335i that I've had for 7 years, I'm now looking for a replacement. I want something will low miles, smaller and nimble with driver feedback. I'm looking at M235i's and have test driven two and are very impressive. But trying to keep an open mind, is there anything else I should be considering? Perhaps I need to test drive an S3 or Golf R. I drove a modern RS3 two years ago and it was a fantastic car, but even the RS didn't gave me much feedback and they are mega expensive still. Budget up to around £23k. I've ruled out an E92 M3 due to the massive Tax and it being an "old" car.. Same tax as my 335i, but fed up with paying what would be £540 now.

[Hammy98]

Audi S5?

Its my understanding that the s3, golf R etc all use Haldex 4wd which can make the experience a little numb. Basically they are FWD with the rear wheels being powered when required.

Audis with longitudinal engines such as the s4, s5 and s6 use a central Torsen differential more akin to the original UR Quattro, which should make a bit more involving driving experience. Worth trying one back to back with an s3 to see the difference.

[johnny_no_mates]

M240i coming very close to budget now...

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

Maybe this one with a bit of negotiation...

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

M140i definitely in budget, if a hatch might suffice...

[johnny_no_mates]

Mercedes A45?

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

AUC just over budget...

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

[Monkey_boy]

thanks guys..

Yes I used to have a B6 S4 v8 and that car was just lovely, but a bit inert. Quattro is nice. I've test driven a B8 S4 and TBH it wasn't that much slower than the RS3 I'd literally just stepped out of.

Not keen on the Merc A45. S5 would be a big car again, which I'm not keen on, as we already have a big 5 series touring.

I thought the E92 shape was a beautiful one and one that didn't age hugely. Modern BMW's seem very fussy but can be made to look much better with M Performance parts. I think the M235i seems to be very good value for money. Yes I have looked at a few M140i's on Autotrader, they too seem good value. Would I be mad though to buy a new B58 engine over a well proven N55 engine? Lets be honest the new N54 in my 335i cost me a small fortune in Turbos, Injectors and other things.