BMW 120D VS 123D or something else

[rdb85]

Possibly looking at getting my first diesel. Any issues to look out for? Problem areas etc? Or could you recommend something else. I would love a 335d but its rather large for me.

[rdb85]

Miles about 12k a year. Budget 15k

[rdb85]

The 135i are quite hard to get hold of from my postcode L19 2RF. I found a 2011 125i with the 2.0, same BHP as the 3.0, so same power and cheaper tax. I would love a 135i

[rdb85]

But what would you recommend if I where to look at something else similar power etc, same tax or less. There is an r32 but I dont want to pay £500 to tax it lmao

[rdb85]

Loyly said:

You don't really do enough miles to benefit from a diesel, but if you are set on one then go for it. I am a big fan of the 123d. It's not exciting in the traditional sense of enjoyment but as a useful little commuter with loads of punch and a decent chassis I can see the appeal. I've done quite a few miles in a first generation 123d and despite the apparently meagre headline bhp figure, the ease with which it can deliver a sackload of punch is impressive and makes for a fantastic mid-pace overtaking machine.

That's true they do look good. Maybe better with a petrol or something other than a 1 series but still German

[rdb85]

ZX10R NIN said:

Lol you really can't make up your mind can you, I see the budget has crept a bit.

If you want a diesel BMW then get yourself an Alpina D3 they have fantastic handling & with your budget you should be able to grab a BiTurbo version & they hold their money well.

Alpina D3 Saloon

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2017...

Alpina D3 Coupe

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2017...


Personally I'd go for 335i it's a very sweet steer with a good engine (although the intercooler on both the 1&3 are not good enough & really need to be changed for a more efficient one) and just a nicer place to be than a 135i imo.

335i M Sport Highline

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2017...

Or go for an M135i

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2017...

135i Coupe

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2017...

I know I will get there. Just need to find one that's not too far from my postcode L19 2RF. I like that 335i looks lovely as does that 135i

[rdb85]

Suppose so just nothing ridiculous. 80 miles would be okay. But it depends really on what's on offer.

[rdb85]

I think looking at the models then I would go for a 135i if possible as that would be the one to go for, as I think you would have that nagging feeling that you should of gone for that model. There is not much difference really as they all have 3.0ltr engines.

[rdb85]

Oh no found this last night: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2007-56-Volkswagen-Golf-...

[rdb85]

Yeah that link to the R32 just shows a big list. I do like that black one. I did consider a Golf GTI I like the 2013 shape. I think I can get one for my budget. The only issue with the R32 is the tax.

[rdb85]

What out of the three would you get:

BMW 135i
R32
Golf GTI

Fuel does not bother me to be honest. The R32 tax band is £200 more, but what would be more fun to drive? But also hold its value and be able to easily resell later on?

[rdb85]

I have always liked them, any other options available? I have always liked http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2017...

Edited by rdb85 on Tuesday 25th April 21:53

[rdb85]

So looked at some cars. Ruled out a 3.0 I just can't afford the cost of the petrol, insurance is quite high. Something like a 120i seems to be the most affordable.

[rdb85]

Big GT said:

I know others have mentioned Diesels aren't worth it for 12K miles. True - However the 2.0 D3 Bi Turbo is different and far more special than normal 3 series.

Look after it and you will not loose much.

For example I sold my 58 plate Bi Turbo coupe 4 years ago on same mileage as this for only £1K more

Worth visiting.

https://www.pistonheads.com/classifieds/used-cars/...

Looks okay that, would need to see one. Any others?