E46 330cd cab vs E64 635d cab

[TiminYorkshire]

Posted in here as there were no replies in the car buying section, and given brand loyalty someone here may have had both:

Is a Bmw 635d worth 2-3 times the price of a 330cd when considering both in the convertible format?

Neither are new cars anymore, so does the simpler design of the E46 make it easier/cheaper to maintain long term?

I'd imagine the 635d to be more refined, but how unrefined is a 330cd? And is the E46 more fun?

Has anyone had both?

Yours, a four seater convertible luster.

[TiminYorkshire]

Anyone who has owned either got a view on this?

[naturalaspiration]

E46 rusts, and e64 does not. The rear seats in e64 are mostly decorative, not sure about E46.

Diesel in a convertible?

[Phil Dicky]

I'd look at the petrol equivalents of both....unless diesel is a must.

[BFleming]

I've driven both over the years. The E64 is a fine car, very refined, superbly built, and generally just a great place to be. The E46 feels old, mostly as it is. No frills as such. It depends on whether you want a luxo barge (E64) or something more run of the mill (E46). The E64 is a big car mind. I don't think running costs would be preposterous, but it depends on your anticipated use.
What is your budget, or is it it a case of the right car for the right money? Try both.

[TiminYorkshire]

Some good points above. Trying a couple may help the process.