[hornedav]

Hello,

Advice please. My 2004 318i-E46 (180,000kms) is starting to show its age with expensive oil and coolant leaks. Getting very expensive to own.

I'm considering purchasing a 2015 BMW 320i F30(luxury) - that has only done 2700 Kms. It is a part of a deceased estate, and is in pristine/beautiful condition. A fortunate find.

As I'm considering...I'm weighing up my purchasing and price options. I've observed several posts here flagging that a Mazda 6, or a 2018 Mazda 3 Astina, may be better purchases than a BMW 320i F30. In terms of outlay and features.

I've really loved my 14 year old 318i. And feel BMWs are fantastic. I'm hoping to glean peoples views on whether a 2015 320i is worth the extra money when compared to say a Mazda 6 or 3??

Thanks in advance.

[cfm56d7b]

Did you have a chance to drive Mazda and any other vehicle under consideration? It's practically impossible to apply a generic perspective to any car. It's your decision that counts the most.

[hornedav]

Thanks cfm56d7b, that's very true.

Yes, I've driven the Mazda 3 Astina (2.5 litre). The vehicle is very good, loads of features. The BMW is $9K more in price and 3 years older...so I'm weighing up the differences between these brands and models.

[x328x]

well the way i see it, no German car is value for money when compared to say a Toyota or Mazda

your buying a badge and luxury/quality (even though thats arguable)

If the BMW does not make you feel special and puts a smile on your face when you get behind it, then i think opt for the Mazda.

Something to note is the 320i is a detuned version of the 328i. You can get a piggyback tune and really get a fun car to drive for less than 500 dollars

[cfm56d7b]

Originally Posted by hornedav

Thanks cfm56d7b, that's very true.

Yes, I've driven the Mazda 3 Astina (2.5 litre). The vehicle is very good, loads of features. The BMW is $9K more in price and 3 years older...so I'm weighing up the differences between these brands and models.

I personally think that Mazda 3 is a great value for the money. Mazda CX-5 crossover is in the same category offering great value. My friend has Mazda 6 and as a daily driver it meets and exceeds his requirements.

And then one has to consider a BMW to make things more complicated. :-)

If value is a significant factor, the choices become more clear.

[Sherweeeny]

its not worth the money unless you enjoy driving it. id personally pay the extra and forego the warranty and pick up the 3 series after having driven all options. id try get it closer to 35k though

[hornedav]

Thanks Guys. Appreciate your advice. Further test drives will help now to clarify. The extra $9K complicates matters. Yes, I can hope for $35K...but the customer feels with 2700 KMs the vehicle is pristine enough to attract the $40K price tag.

And I had no idea the 320i is a detuned version of the 328i. I'll look into Chips and tuning. Interesting.

Cheers. :-)

[Mid_Night_F20]

Originally Posted by hornedav

Hello,

Advice please. My 2004 318i-E46 (180,000kms) is starting to show its age with expensive oil and coolant leaks. Getting very expensive to own.

I'm considering purchasing a 2015 BMW 320i F30(luxury) - that has only done 2700 Kms. It is a part of a deceased estate, and is in pristine/beautiful condition. A fortunate find.

As I'm considering...I'm weighing up my purchasing and price options. I've observed several posts here flagging that a Mazda 6, or a 2018 Mazda 3 Astina, may be better purchases than a BMW 320i F30. In terms of outlay and features.

I've really loved my 14 year old 318i. And feel BMWs are fantastic. I'm hoping to glean peoples views on whether a 2015 320i is worth the extra money when compared to say a Mazda 6 or 3??

Thanks in advance.

Well most importantly what are you looking for in your next car?

Tuning wise the N20 is a decent engine for basic bolt ons/ mild tuning, on the detuned N20 in the 320i (I believe it has weaker pistons too) you can probably comfortably get extra 100HP @ the crank with the correct mods.

Tom

[Pete328]

The asking price is a bit steep, even considering the low KM.

A workmate just bought a 328 from a Sydney dealer. 2017 model, with 4000km. $50k