Now that BMW is buying my car back, which car should I get?

Zoominrex · 07-19-2009, 03:44 PM

I'm looking at a Z4 3.5, 335i coupe or convertible, an S5 or a TTS. I have not yet driven a Camaro SS, Shelby GT500, or a 370Z. There really is a lot available nowadays. What would you guys consider? I'm not so much a huge muscle car guy but I want to test drive them before I pass judgment. Mercs just kind of bore me.

HIPSI · 07-19-2009, 03:52 PM

Pretty solid list for test drives, might want add the G37 coupe and/or hard-top vert. The new Camero SS, if it can be had w/o "market adjustment" would be hard for me to pass up. Good to see BMW stepped up!

MOCKBA · 07-19-2009, 04:01 PM

Drive all these cars and then report to us. I am interested in your opinion. Based on my past experience, I would take Z4, or looked for Cayman S.

mtla4 · 07-19-2009, 04:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zoominrex

I'm looking at a Z4 3.5, 335i coupe or convertible, an S5 or a TTS. I have not yet driven a Camaro SS, Shelby GT500, or a 370Z. There really is a lot available nowadays. What would you guys consider? I'm not so much a huge muscle car guy but I want to test drive them before I pass judgment. Mercs just kind of bore me.

If I had a car lemoned I would not buy an other of the same brand. I would go elsewhere and maybe come back in a few years. Seems like you're looking for a (sports car) so skip the Z4,335,S5 and go with something a little more basic like the stang, shelby, 370z, used cayman S worst comes to worst a Z4 M coupe.

oneintheory · 07-19-2009, 04:05 PM

Why is BMW buying your car back?

Nevermind...found it myself. I wouldn't buy a 335 if you had issues with the 135. The differences between the two are minimal, and the engines are exactly the same. I'd pick up a Cayman.

shodanusmc · 07-19-2009, 04:06 PM

GT500! It's a no brainer, and there are some real nice discounts on them now.

Cuz5150 · 07-19-2009, 04:24 PM

GT500!! Its simple, you can not ignore the 500Hp+ and 500 + TQ. And the Vehicle looks good.

emtrey · 07-19-2009, 04:46 PM

What happened with your car ? I am not sure if I would go back to a given brand if one of their products was so bad it had to be bought back.

I had a bad 630 coupe in 1978 and it took me till 98 to get past it and own another BMW product. I have had 3 BMWs and 2 Minis since then w/o any major issues.

Seriously, wanting a 1 series as I am now tiring of the Mini experience after driving them since 2004.

BMW86 · 07-19-2009, 05:13 PM

I would definitely steer away from the 335i. The 135i and 335i are too similar. If you want looks go for the Z4. I've driven the Z4 extensively and still think the 135i is the better drivers car. The Z4 definitely has WOW factor though. I think the S5 is the better choice over the 335i. The TTS is definitely a headturner but it's a bit down on power coming from the 135i, although you could tune it.

From the list of cars you have i'd go with the Z4 or S5.

lacrosse · 07-19-2009, 05:20 PM

Cayman S!

gatorfast · 07-19-2009, 05:25 PM

370z is pretty sweet.

Zoominrex · 07-19-2009, 06:03 PM

Just got back from the BMW dealership and spotted a brand new 08 Z4 M Roadster. The thing was a blast to drive. They are also offering it at a heavy discount...10K off at LEAST. As far as not buying another BMW b/c I had a lemon, I just feel that ALL companies make lemons. Most of you have not had the same problems that mine had and the fact that BMW was willing to rectify the problem by buying the car back helps put my faith back in the company.

The S5 is a stunning looking car but it wasn't as much fun to drive. I think its definitely more of a tourer rather than a corner carver. The G37 is a solid car but looks and feels too vanilla to me. The M Roadster was so visceral and the old M engine was a screamer! I'm just worried about resale value but as an M car it should hold up better than a regular Z4 even though the new Z's are already out. Those are great looking cars but I couldn't justify the 63K price tag. At that price I would get a Cayman.

Off to test more cars!

Zoominrex · 07-19-2009, 06:16 PM

I am also considering a 135i Vert.

crumb · 07-19-2009, 06:33 PM

New z4m? How much longer will they be produced? Is it still possible to spec a new one for delivery?

Tom K. · 07-19-2009, 06:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by crumb

New z4m? How much longer will they be produced? Is it still possible to spec a new one for delivery?

He's looking at a new, holdover 2008 which hasn't been sold. That was the last year for the Z4 ragtop, coupe and M, so no - you can't spec one for delivery (unless you have a time machine).

Tom

Zoominrex · 07-19-2009, 06:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tom K.

He's looking at a new, holdover 2008 which hasn't been sold. That was the last year for the Z4 ragtop, coupe and M, so no - you can't spec one for delivery (unless you have a time machine).

Tom

correct

mtla4 · 07-19-2009, 06:51 PM

They still have 09s but the production just ended a few weeks ago

vash_241987 · 07-19-2009, 06:59 PM

I drove the base TT and it was fun, I can't compare it to the 135i, but the AWD and the I4 turbo was a blast to drive, even got it up to 110 on my test drive. The DSG gear box was nice and smooth, the TTS are only avaliable in the US w/ the DSG, so if your a M/T type of guy your out of luck, but try it anyways, it's a blast.

Add1ct · 07-19-2009, 07:27 PM

If I had had your experience, I'd stay away from the N54, I'd be looking at the 335d myself after driving it I was so impressed. but it seems you're looking at a more sporting range of vehicles. I'd suggest you check out the boxter and cayman S models, and even the regular models of those vehicles are impressive. the A5/S5 are gorgeous but likely wont have the sporting character you demand. the muscle cars are impressive in their performance but do lack european refinement. if you just want another bimmer go for a NA one, 128i or 328i are great overall cars.

radiantm3 · 07-19-2009, 07:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gatorfast

370z is pretty sweet.

The 370z is a letdown after owning a 1. They do look nice though.

jibaholic101 · 07-19-2009, 08:12 PM

used porsche or e92 m3!

otterdoc · 07-19-2009, 08:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zoominrex

I have not yet driven a Camaro SS, Shelby GT500, or a 370Z. There really is a lot available nowadays. What would you guys consider?

I drove a pre-production Camaro SS back in April. Loved the general feel of it with the exception of the steering, which felt soft and somewhat disconnected compared to a 135. I really wish I could have gotten my 135's interior in a Camaro SS. I'd have bought one in a heartbeat, but the lack of Nav and a nicer interior really turned me off on the car.

Also drove a 370Z. Felt like the 135 in terms of speed and handling, but lots of compromises there in terms of daily driving (poor visibility, road/tire/wheelwell noise/2 seater). Bunch of dealers that were jerks drove me away from buying a 370Z.

I drove a 335, G37 and a G8 GT for comparative purposes. G37 was nice, lots like the 335. The 335 felt too big to me. G8 had the same problems as the Camaro. Both of the GM cars had tons of grunt, though.

07-19-2009, 03:44 PM	#1
Zoominrex Lieutenant 51 Rep 490 Posts Drives: F87 MG M2 Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Bay Area, CA iTrader: (0)	Now that BMW is buying my car back, which car should I get? I'm looking at a Z4 3.5, 335i coupe or convertible, an S5 or a TTS. I have not yet driven a Camaro SS, Shelby GT500, or a 370Z. There really is a lot available nowadays. What would you guys consider? I'm not so much a huge muscle car guy but I want to test drive them before I pass judgment. Mercs just kind of bore me.
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07-19-2009, 03:52 PM	#2
HIPSI Second Lieutenant 21 Rep 277 Posts Drives: 08 135i Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Houston iTrader: (0)	Pretty solid list for test drives, might want add the G37 coupe and/or hard-top vert. The new Camero SS, if it can be had w/o "market adjustment" would be hard for me to pass up. Good to see BMW stepped up! __________________ 08 135 Coupe SGM/Terra 15 Porsche Macan S- Family Hauler 22 C8 Corvette 3LT HTC
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07-19-2009, 04:01 PM	#3
MOCKBA Captain 54 Rep 870 Posts Drives: 135 convertible Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: SFBA iTrader: (0)	Drive all these cars and then report to us. I am interested in your opinion. Based on my past experience, I would take Z4, or looked for Cayman S. __________________ 535i/HUD Kamerton brings me true sound fidelity
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07-19-2009, 04:05 PM	#5
oneintheory no longer a BMW owner 152 Rep 1,463 Posts Drives: 2011 Ford Edge Sport Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Suffolk/Chesapeake, VA iTrader: (0)	Why is BMW buying your car back? Nevermind...found it myself. I wouldn't buy a 335 if you had issues with the 135. The differences between the two are minimal, and the engines are exactly the same. I'd pick up a Cayman.
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07-19-2009, 04:06 PM	#6
shodanusmc Captain 21 Rep 774 Posts Drives: 09 135 Vert Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Chicago burb iTrader: (0)	GT500! It's a no brainer, and there are some real nice discounts on them now.
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07-19-2009, 04:24 PM	#7
Cuz5150 Major 215 Rep 1,489 Posts Drives: 06-M3ZHP/04-M3 Vert/02Duc998 Join Date: May 2008 Location: NJ iTrader: (0)	GT500!! Its simple, you can not ignore the 500Hp+ and 500 + TQ. And the Vehicle looks good. __________________ -Diplomacy is saying, "nice doggie while trying to find a rock"- 07-Z4 coupe-Black/Black/6MT/sport/premium/X 04-M3 vert-Black/Imolla/6MT/Cold/Xenon/HK/ 06-M3 Coupe-Mystic/Black/6MT/ZCP/Xenon/HK/ 09-135i- AW/Bk-Lette/6MT/M-pac/Nav/Hi-Fi/Usb-Ipod/SOLD
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07-19-2009, 04:46 PM	#8
emtrey Captain 92 Rep 857 Posts Drives: 16 M235IX, 06 Carrera S, 335i Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Midwest iTrader: (0)	What happened with your car ? I am not sure if I would go back to a given brand if one of their products was so bad it had to be bought back. I had a bad 630 coupe in 1978 and it took me till 98 to get past it and own another BMW product. I have had 3 BMWs and 2 Minis since then w/o any major issues. Seriously, wanting a 1 series as I am now tiring of the Mini experience after driving them since 2004.
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07-19-2009, 05:13 PM	#9
BMW86 Major General 398 Rep 9,156 Posts Drives: RS3 Sedan / Macan S Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	I would definitely steer away from the 335i. The 135i and 335i are too similar. If you want looks go for the Z4. I've driven the Z4 extensively and still think the 135i is the better drivers car. The Z4 definitely has WOW factor though. I think the S5 is the better choice over the 335i. The TTS is definitely a headturner but it's a bit down on power coming from the 135i, although you could tune it. From the list of cars you have i'd go with the Z4 or S5.
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07-19-2009, 05:20 PM	#10
lacrosse Captain 11 Rep 817 Posts Drives: 2006 997 C2 Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Long Island iTrader: (0) Garage List 2006 Carrera C2 [0.00] 2008 135i [0.00] 2002 Mercedes ML 320 [0.00] 2006 330i [0.00]	Cayman S! __________________ Gone: 2008 135i/2006 330i Arrived: 2006 997/Black/Sand Beige Leather/6MT/Sports Chrono Plus/19" Vorsteiner V-308s/Factory Nav/Sports Steering Wheel/Contrasting Mats/Heated Seats/Bose /V1/iPod adapter/Parrot Bluetooth/50% all around/Black "911" script/"Gundo Hack"/AWE black chrome tips/H&R adjustable front and rear sways/Rennline shift knob
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07-19-2009, 05:25 PM	#11
gatorfast Major General 4998 Rep 6,863 Posts Drives: 718 Cayman Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: SoFla iTrader: (4)	370z is pretty sweet.
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07-19-2009, 06:03 PM	#12
Zoominrex Lieutenant 51 Rep 490 Posts Drives: F87 MG M2 Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Bay Area, CA iTrader: (0)	Just got back from the BMW dealership and spotted a brand new 08 Z4 M Roadster. The thing was a blast to drive. They are also offering it at a heavy discount...10K off at LEAST. As far as not buying another BMW b/c I had a lemon, I just feel that ALL companies make lemons. Most of you have not had the same problems that mine had and the fact that BMW was willing to rectify the problem by buying the car back helps put my faith back in the company. The S5 is a stunning looking car but it wasn't as much fun to drive. I think its definitely more of a tourer rather than a corner carver. The G37 is a solid car but looks and feels too vanilla to me. The M Roadster was so visceral and the old M engine was a screamer! I'm just worried about resale value but as an M car it should hold up better than a regular Z4 even though the new Z's are already out. Those are great looking cars but I couldn't justify the 63K price tag. At that price I would get a Cayman. Off to test more cars!
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07-19-2009, 06:16 PM	#13
Zoominrex Lieutenant 51 Rep 490 Posts Drives: F87 MG M2 Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Bay Area, CA iTrader: (0)	I am also considering a 135i Vert.
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07-19-2009, 06:33 PM	#14
crumb Private 3 Rep 94 Posts Drives: honda Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: TX iTrader: (0)	New z4m? How much longer will they be produced? Is it still possible to spec a new one for delivery?
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07-19-2009, 06:59 PM	#18
vash_241987 Private 15 Rep 74 Posts Drives: 99 corolla Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Corpus christi, Tx iTrader: (0)	I drove the base TT and it was fun, I can't compare it to the 135i, but the AWD and the I4 turbo was a blast to drive, even got it up to 110 on my test drive. The DSG gear box was nice and smooth, the TTS are only avaliable in the US w/ the DSG, so if your a M/T type of guy your out of luck, but try it anyways, it's a blast.
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07-19-2009, 07:27 PM	#19
Add1ct Lieutenant Colonel 59 Rep 1,859 Posts Drives: 135i, 335i Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Palos Verdes Estates (SoCal) iTrader: (3)	If I had had your experience, I'd stay away from the N54, I'd be looking at the 335d myself after driving it I was so impressed. but it seems you're looking at a more sporting range of vehicles. I'd suggest you check out the boxter and cayman S models, and even the regular models of those vehicles are impressive. the A5/S5 are gorgeous but likely wont have the sporting character you demand. the muscle cars are impressive in their performance but do lack european refinement. if you just want another bimmer go for a NA one, 128i or 328i are great overall cars. __________________ E82 N54 6MT 6FL 668 KASW turned in E92 Crimson/Cream N54 6MT, ZSP, ZPP, ZCW, Nav, Sat radio, HD Radio, Logic7, PDC, Active Steering, Active Cruise, 6FL, CA
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07-19-2009, 08:12 PM	#21
jibaholic101 Brigadier General 160 Rep 3,496 Posts Drives: women wild Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Charleston, SC iTrader: (0)	used porsche or e92 m3! __________________ some italian, german, and japanese ones; and on order more of the same
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