[metallicpea]

OK, so more importantly. OP, please look for a 320i with the sport package - really adds a ton for MSRP of $1,300 and can hopefully be had inside your budget.

[Ravenseal]

Originally Posted by metallicpea

Wrong and wrong.

OP asked about an F30 - not a 4 series.

320i can be built in either plant just like any other F30.

It's cool, just keep spewing bad info and give BMW extra money as their Marketing department has successfully pulled the wool over your eyes.

I didn't bring the 4 series into the conversation. Jncer did. Try again.

[Ravenseal]

Originally Posted by whosagrubb

Does country of origin really matter anymore? If they're the same platform, built on the same assembly line, with the same parts, and with the same warranty and support from the MFR..

*full disclosure I haven't really researched to see if there were systemic issues with South African built cars, but knowing BMW has been building cars there for a few years, and the fact that they've had plants in other countries outside Germany successfully building cars, I assume the answer is no.

Funny enough, BMW labels them so in the United States, which I guess it means some people care enough to know they weren't made in Germany. From the looks of 2018 stock though, they stopped importing those models into the US.

[Liwanji]

Originally Posted by Ravenseal

P.S. 320i models are mostly made in South Africa.

My 320i was made in Germany, I picked it up in Munich.

I factory ordered it so I knew what I was buying. Sure for the same money I can get a fully loaded Camry, but that claim does not mean anything to me because I am not buying a Camry.

Yes a similarly equipped 328i might be only $5K more than my 320i so I should have bought the 328i for better value, I know it. But I am happy with the 320i so why spend the extra $5K?

I guess my frugality made me a badge whore lol. You may say a frugal person should not buy a BMW, but... am I spending your money?

[MSCD]

I have 2 328i - one has a 3.0l straight 6 under the hood. The other a 2.0l I4 turbo.

Both are great to drive.

The UK market has smaller 'badged' cars. Really a 320i would be considered a 2nd level car in most markets not entry.

I bought mine because I like the brand and wanted a specific model type. I have an F31 that comes with one engine... can I afford an M3/4 sure, but not what I want or need currently... maybe next time. Too many assumptions on people's priorities versus their wallets.

[whosagrubb]

Originally Posted by Ravenseal

Funny enough, BMW labels them so in the United States, which I guess it means some people care enough to know they weren't made in Germany. From the looks of 2018 stock though, they stopped importing those models into the US.

It's not that people "care" per say, it's that US laws require auto manufacturers to disclose the country of origin (where final assembly takes place) on the window sticker.

[chiefneil]

Contrary to what some people think, the 320i looks like a great car and a good value to me. Especially with the sport suspension or DHP. Compared to my much more expensive 335i, you get the same body and suspension, almost the same interior, and the same controls/interface. Same sport seats too, I believe.

Yes it's down on power but it's a lot of fun to wind up a low power engine. And the weight distribution is noticeably better than my 335i so the 320i feel more agile - it turns in quicker and the nose doesn't dive as much on turn-in.

Definitely a fun car for those who want a BMW on a budget. No hate at all from me. In terms of overall feel it harkens back to my 1995 E36 325i. That car had a pretty bare-bones interior, 189hp, and an engine that needed to be wound up to get going. Too many people are hung up on HP these days; in terms of day to day usability, I even think the 300hp in my 335i is excessive.

[Ravenseal]

Originally Posted by whosagrubb

It's not that people "care" per say, it's that US laws require auto manufacturers to disclose the country of origin (where final assembly takes place) on the window sticker.

No. In the model listing online, it stated "SA" or "South Africa". Not the County of Origin clause on the window sticker. These models don't seem to exist in the US anymore.

[Ravenseal]

There you go folks: http://images.gtcarlot.com/pictures/92392031.jpg

Made in South Africa with a Germany VIN Code.

AWD 320i xDrive 4dr Sedan SA

https://www.groovecar.com/inventory/...e-5u41962.html

Gosh, I love making jncer feel stupid.

[jmg]

Originally Posted by Ravenseal

I have a 4 series Gran Coupe. You're a moron for not reading. Goodbye.

P.S. 320i models are mostly made in South Africa.

They are assembled in South Africa and that factory has a very high rating. My old 340i M Sport was also a SA car, and it solid.

[whosagrubb]

Originally Posted by Ravenseal

No. In the model listing online, it stated "SA" or "South Africa". Not the County of Origin clause on the window sticker. These models don't seem to exist in the US anymore.

I've seen that as well.. I chalked it up to the requirement to show country of origin, but from some quick reading on Wikipedia, BMW of South Africa may be unique as a wholly owned subsidiary established when BMW acquired the facility in the 70's. This may have something to do with why cars assembled there are designated specifically as being a "South Africa" model.

Regardless, my point still stands. It really shouldn't matter where final assembly takes place.

[jmg]

Originally Posted by Ravenseal

There you go folks: http://images.gtcarlot.com/pictures/92392031.jpg

Made in South Africa with a Germany VIN Code.

Where does it say "Made in South Africa" on the sticker? I can't see it.

[Ravenseal]

Originally Posted by whosagrubb

I've seen that as well.. I chalked it up to the requirement to show country of origin, but from some quick reading on Wikipedia, BMW of South Africa may be unique as a wholly owned subsidiary established when BMW acquired the facility in the 70's. This may have something to do with why cars assembled there are designated specifically as being a "South Africa" model.

Regardless, my point still stands. It really shouldn't matter where final assembly takes place.

I'm sure there isn't. This whole Germany vs SA thing started because someone else felt like kicking off a dick measuring contest.

Either way, the 320i models I've always gotten my hands on through service loaners and rentals have been lackluster. No options, cheap sensatec, hard plastic everywhere, crappy performance when compared to the 328/428, and annoyingly light steering. None have had this infamous sport package. If people want them, that's fine. It just remains MY OPINION that you can buy a LOT of cars for the same price, and that the only BMW I've gotten true sticker shock from is this car ($43,000). If you're looking for fun/sporty cars, you can buy very well equipped Camaro SS and Mustang GT for the starting price of a 320i.

[BEM-S4]

Originally Posted by Ravenseal

I'm sure there isn't. This whole Germany vs SA thing started because someone else felt like kicking off a dick measuring contest.

Either way, the 320i models I've always gotten my hands on through service loaners and rentals have been lackluster. No options, cheap sensatec, hard plastic everywhere, crappy performance when compared to the 328/428, and annoyingly light steering. None have had this infamous sport package. If people want them, that's fine. It just remains MY OPINION that you can buy a LOT of cars for the same price, and that the only BMW I've gotten true sticker shock from is this car ($43,000). If you're looking for fun/sporty cars, you can buy very well equipped Camaro SS and Mustang GT for the starting price of a 320i.

If OP can live without rear doors I'd highly suggest the 230 instead of the 320. Much better "drivers car" for the $. All while staying in something with a BMW badge on the hood.

[MSCD]

These are 2016 but most parts are German... on in SA plant and one Germany

Most X models are US... not sure it matters to me?

[Ravenseal]

Originally Posted by BEM-S4

If OP can live without rear doors I'd highly suggest the 230 instead of the 320. Much better "drivers car" for the $. All while staying in something with a BMW badge on the hood.

Yep. Throw a JB tuner under the hood, and it's a 4.7 second car. I always recommend the 230 for people who want a small, fun, sporty car that isn't a GTI.

[BEM-S4]

Originally Posted by Ravenseal

Yep. Throw a JB tuner under the hood, and it's a 4.7 second car. I always recommend the 230 for people who want a small, fun, sporty car that isn't a GTI.

Funny you mention the GTI - if I were really on a budget I'd get a sport one with plaid seats and call it a fuckin day. $ for $ you can't get a better car that does a lot well and has some versatility / utility to it.

Either that or if you want a family friendly option that kicks serious ass, the previous gen X1 35xdrive (think that's the official name). That's a hell of a power plant in a family friendly package. Much better than the current one.

[MacklinUSOB]

Originally Posted by BEM-S4

Funny you mention the GTI - if I were really on a budget I'd get a sport one with plaid seats and call it a fuckin day. $ for $ you can't get a better car that does a lot well and has some versatility / utility to it.

Wholly agree on this point. The MK7 GTI is really a standout in the market, I have had the chance to drive a few of them and I have been impressed each time, and by different things. It's hard to think of a car that is more a complete package, really. I was very close to buying a Sport towards the end of last year, the deals were INSANE (quoted less than $24,000 OTD) in the mid-Atlantic region from dieselgate butchering sales. Obviously, I chose differently for a good many reasons, but none of them were because I felt it lacked quality, certainly not value. The plaid seats are the bee's knee's, I wouldn't have a GTI without em.

[2000Z3M]

wow this tread turned into a shit show

OP, just keep an eye out on cars.com, autotrader.com and bmw's car finder.

[613Bimmer]

Sometimes I wonder why people are so aggressive on forums... just live and let live people. Offer your advice in a polite manner and move on.

[uncleruckus]

Originally Posted by 613Bimmer

Sometimes I wonder why people are so aggressive on forums... just live and let live people. Offer your advice in a polite manner and move on.

Certain subjects seem to trigger people on these forums .... de-badging, AT vs MT, xDrive vs RWD, engine/power levels. At the end of the day, everyone's needs, wants and expectations are different.

[jnecr]

Originally Posted by Ravenseal

Gosh, I love making jncer feel stupid.

Two internet wins in one fucking day?!?!?!?!? By God I'm on suicide watch.