Choices.... Help needed

[noneedtolift]

Hi there,
used to be on Pistonheads a while ago (2000-2004, Nickname: ASONE, new email and loss of details forced change :)) - good to be back.

Currently run a 2005 535d until X3 arrives at the end of November. My company has recently "changed the rules" regarding cars - we now "have to" keep the cars for 12 months at a time (we can currently change them after 9.000 km's)

Since there's quite a bit of lead time I'll have to think about ordering pretty much right now and I'll have to stick with it. 535d is the dog's bollox but costs me a fortune plus its really too big for me (and the garage). X3 is also too big plus was intended for winter only.

Really, I am waiting for the 335i and 335d to come out, but they won't before September 06.

So I've been looking at the 330i/d touring or the 130i but can't make up my mind...

What are the thoughts of the PH massive :)
Thx
Felix

[wingchundave]

The 130 should be an absolute scream! Hottest hatch money can buy. It would be too small for my personal preference though so I'd go for the 330.

[patrico]

wingchundave said:

It would be too small for my personal preference though so I'd go for the 330.

but which one i or d?

>> Edited by patrico on Monday 19th September 13:38

[MattOz]

Felix,

The new 330d "MSport" is out in October. They're being built by the factory now. May be worth getting down to your dealer and enquiring about one. They have 231bhp and 369ft/lbs so not as pokey as the 535, but not that far off.

I'm still not sure that BMW will release a 335d. Time will tell

Cheers
Matt

[keitht1]

I'd say that 330d msport is worth waiting for.
Would the V8 out of the 535d fit in the E90 engine bay - it's already almost too big for the E60?

[vee]

keitht1 said:

I'd say that 330d msport is worth waiting for. Would the V8 out of the 535d fit in the E90 engine bay - it's already almost too big for the E60?

535d is just a twin turbo version of the six cylinder 2.9 in 330 & 530d's

I'd keep the current 535d if possible. I assume it's a sport, not seen any non-sport versions.

[wingchundave]

patrico said:

wingchundave said: It would be too small for my personal preference though so I'd go for the 330. but which one i or d? >> Edited by patrico on Monday 19th September 13:38

As impressive as the D is I'd have the petrol. I just couldn't bring myself to drive a diesel. *shudders*

[noneedtolift]

Thx for the advice guys - I think I'll go for the 3series, and I think it'll be the diesel. I know for a fact that there'll be a 335d (as will the 335i)- however it is unsure when. I think a one-series might suit me for size (no family) but think the touring sports version is a bit more masculine. I'll keep you posted. Thanks again !

[fergy]

I prefer the 330i... still not convinced on 130i styling. Plus just find the 1 series a bit toooo small. Really a nice predicament to find yourself in, both will be excellent.