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Introductory Luxury Cars

BlondBomber

BlondBomber

New member
I just found this board, I usually only post on the Weightlifting section. I guess you could say that I live the luxury lifestyle for my demographic (college student at a non-Ivy League or West Coast counterparts). Anyways, my question is whether you guys would recommend a 3 series BMW or a Lexus IS300. I am going to be buying a certified pre-owned 2000-2001, and have narrowed my choices to these two. I am leaning towards the IS300 because it has a better repair record. I can afford the payments and repairs for both, but since I am not a millionaire, extra money can always be spent on other conspiciously consumed items. Anyone have experiences with either?
 
I got 145k on my bimmer all orginal parts,,,never had any repairs,,,just maintenance
 
Thanks for the responses. I am currently debating whether to buy a car now, or start a investment portfolio. I am trying to steer away from the flashier things, but I would love to have a new car. Thinking of developing a long term plan, something very, very new to me.
 
BlondBomber said:
Thanks for the responses. I am currently debating whether to buy a car now, or start a investment portfolio. I am trying to steer away from the flashier things, but I would love to have a new car. Thinking of developing a long term plan, something very, very new to me.
Click to expand...


How old are you and what's the condition of your current car?

The Benz C- series is nice too - I just test drove one the other day and I'm a solid Bimmer fan (but I hate the new style). The Lexus GS drives a lot like my BMW (old body style) and it's super smooth and quiet, I wouldn't recommend the ES though.

If you go for a new car drive them all first find out the payments and the insurance before you fall in love with anything.

I'd lease a car if you can write it off somehow.A lot of dealers will include servicing costs with the cost of the lease until you go over your alotted miles.
 
I turn 21 on the 27th of this month. I currently drive a '98 Toyota Camry that is in excellent condition (due partly to recent body work). I did not look at Mercedes because I have heard that they have high repair costs.
I would be buying a used car, $20,000 range. For the IS300 I was looking at that would be like a 2001, for 3 series around the same year. $20,000 would be my goal because I would want about a $500 a month car payment. Insurance will go up, I have one accident and am 21, but I will get the good student discount.
Leasing is not for me. I have no business, and drive hunreds of miles a week (I live in North County SD). Solid idea though.
I am just weighing car vs. much more $ in the future from investments. If I buy an overpriced shirt from AX or Eddie Rodriguez it is a one time indulgence, whereas a car would require a monthly commitment for at least 4 years. I might just wait and see if my Dad buys me car, also. What you think?
 
Well, I test drove the following (new) cars last month:

Lexus IS300
Acura TL (manual once & automatic twice)
BMW 330i (three times!)
Mercedes C230
Audi S4
and then some...

I should tell you that I was looking specifically for a luxury car with PERFORMANCE!! Something FUN to drive and something sexy too! :) I'm a Realtor and can write off the whole sha-bang with a lease, so the higher priced car doesn't hurt me so much...it's worth it!

Performance-wise, the Lexus sucked!! It had the least power out of all of them, IMO. It looks nice...but wasn't very impressive once I drove it.

The TL was fun...especially the 6 speed! Only problem...it was $35 K so for a smidge more, I could get a BMW. I really did like the TL and still gawk at them on the road...nice feature is the super cool Navigation system. Works with your bluetooth phone too.

The BMW 330i was my first choice. I was able to negotiate a killer lease that I didn't take- $555/month, brand new with sport and premium package, $1000 down. The maintenance is even INCLUDED on the BMW (newer ones at least). This includes EVERYTHING except tires. YES, IT'S TRUE!!! Even windshield wipers! That was really a bonus. More than that, it kicks ass! The power was awesome and it handles like a dream. My first choice. (and you can use your iPod in it too! - extra feature).

Mercedes C230 was nice but appeared to be a "cheap" luxury car...no thanks. If you go for a Mercedes...skip the C class and you'll be fine.

Audi S4 - handles great and is very well made. Great car...I just wish they gave me a better price on it.

I hope that helps...good luck to you and enjoy your car!!
 
I have a 2004 G35 sedan great car and I have no problems with it. You can probably get a 2003 for a decent price now the 2005s are out. Car is rwd has all the options, plus 260hp and 260tq. With only a Ztube and cut a resonater you can have over 275hp. You might even beable to get a 6 speed.
 
Get the lexus its a very nice car and reliable. It will be number one in that catogory. As for AUdi junk, BMW prior years 1998 and older 3 series are good even the 5 are ok. 7 series junk. Mercedes have cheaped out on there products since murged with chrysler. Chrysler products have improved but Mercedes have gone down. Had a 2002 500sl tranny went with 500km, was quite but parts were plastic. I had a 1999 500sl great car no problems, made with real parts. It comes down to profit for these companys. Believe when I say just because you pay more money for something doesnt mean its better. I have a ducatii 999r and a 2004 suzuki gsxr 1000. The gsxr I dont even bother changing the oil, no problems. The ducati has problems like crazy check engine lights runs ruff stalls battery etc. $50000 Can for the ducati $15000 Canadain for the gsxr. Another example I just got a f355 ferrari I maybe will drive it 2000km a year meanwhile I will have to spend about 7000 dollars a year to mantain it. Then I have a 1986 mustang with 700 horses and a 1967 camaro convertible 427 and I only change the oil on them. Maybe it cost me $400 a year to mantain both. I am telling you go with japanese products over any european for reliabilty. Since you are getting used and you dont what to spend so much money later go for the lexus.
 
BlondBomber said:
What are the repair costs like on your Beamers?
Click to expand...

they suck!!! my power window got stuck $400, new starter $500, fucked up the cooling system racing it on a really hot day $2800

get the 100k warranty
 
I'm picking up an x3 this month, its ugly but it drove great on the test drive and it's cheap as hell. I'll let you guys now how it goes
 
PitBullFootBall said:
they suck!!! my power window got stuck $400, new starter $500, fucked up the cooling system racing it on a really hot day $2800

get the 100k warranty
Click to expand...

For 2004 & newer...from the BMW website.

BMW Full Maintenance. A whole different kind of fulfillment.

Maintenance is one of many hidden costs to consider when you’re looking at a car’s sticker price. For most cars, that is. Fortunately, BMW offers one of the most comprehensive maintenance programs in its class. Not that service is needed often, only every 15,000 miles or so. Just about anything your BMW might need replaced or serviced—brake pads, wiper blades, oil change, checkup—is fully covered for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.* Which will save you money and simplify your operating instructions considerably: Fill with gas. Point to horizon. Go.

Maintenance costs for 4 years/50,000 miles, whichever comes first:*


• Brake Pads: $0
• Brake Rotors: $0
• Engine Belts: $0
• Oil Changes: $0
• Wiper Blades: $0
• Inspections: $0

*Full Maintenance covers all factory-recommended maintenance on all MY 2004 vehicles and newer vehicles, as determined by the Service Level Indicator, for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. Exclusions from coverage: gasoline, gasoline additives, windshield washer additives, tires, wheels, wheel alignment, tire balancing and rotation. All work must be performed by an authorized BMW center. See the Service and Warranty Information booklet for more details and exclusions.

I still think the Lexus IS300 is the worst of them all - at least if you want your car to have some balls...but that's just me.
 
I can see why you would not buy the Lexus, but I think it is the right car for me. I am 21 and have one accident, so my insurance is already going to go up, and I assume a faster car would raise it even more. Also, my current mechanic that I trust and have gone to for years cannot service Beamers. College is the time that most people are their poorest, so I think driving a Lexus would not be bad, and I could always look back when I am cruising in my S600 one day. Thanks for all the responses guys.
 
Honkey Tonk said:
I got 145k on my bimmer all orginal parts,,,never had any repairs,,,just maintenance
Click to expand...


Mine's a 98 with 122k - mostly all original, replaced a few weird things - nothing super costly, I maintain it very well. She rides like a dream - I couldn't trade her in for something else.
 
I almost picked up a 2002 M3 last month, I had a great deal (10k miles $32,000- blue books like $40g) but since I put so much into mine in the past year I figured I'd keep it until I graduate. Another year and a half.
Thats the way it is though once you got it you want something better, at first I loved the compliments and heads it turned, plus the performance but now I want more.
Last summer Bob Kraft (patriots owner) pulled up next to me in the new Bentley Continental 2-seater, almost broke my neck, made my 540i look like a beater. Now thats what I want
 
Nonerz said:
For 2004 & newer...from the BMW website.

BMW Full Maintenance. A whole different kind of fulfillment.

Maintenance is one of many hidden costs to consider when you’re looking at a car’s sticker price. For most cars, that is. Fortunately, BMW offers one of the most comprehensive maintenance programs in its class. Not that service is needed often, only every 15,000 miles or so. Just about anything your BMW might need replaced or serviced—brake pads, wiper blades, oil change, checkup—is fully covered for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.* Which will save you money and simplify your operating instructions considerably: Fill with gas. Point to horizon. Go.

Maintenance costs for 4 years/50,000 miles, whichever comes first:*


• Brake Pads: $0
• Brake Rotors: $0
• Engine Belts: $0
• Oil Changes: $0
• Wiper Blades: $0
• Inspections: $0

*Full Maintenance covers all factory-recommended maintenance on all MY 2004 vehicles and newer vehicles, as determined by the Service Level Indicator, for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. Exclusions from coverage: gasoline, gasoline additives, windshield washer additives, tires, wheels, wheel alignment, tire balancing and rotation. All work must be performed by an authorized BMW center. See the Service and Warranty Information booklet for more details and exclusions.

I still think the Lexus IS300 is the worst of them all - at least if you want your car to have some balls...but that's just me.
Click to expand...

That's true of the previous body styles as well. Mine's serviced every 12-15k and I do some oil changes inbetween. Before I bought my car it was a lease and through the lease I did not pay for any service and I had a loaner car provided if I needed it.
 
BlondBomber said:
I just found this board, I usually only post on the Weightlifting section. I guess you could say that I live the luxury lifestyle for my demographic (college student at a non-Ivy League or West Coast counterparts). Anyways, my question is whether you guys would recommend a 3 series BMW or a Lexus IS300. I am going to be buying a certified pre-owned 2000-2001, and have narrowed my choices to these two. I am leaning towards the IS300 because it has a better repair record. I can afford the payments and repairs for both, but since I am not a millionaire, extra money can always be spent on other conspiciously consumed items. Anyone have experiences with either?
Click to expand...
I am strictly a "MB" person :artist: But check out DTMPower and Bimmerforums and your questions could be answered there. Also check out the Lexus forums
 
well besides the looks and status...the IS300 is so boring to drive (even in a manual) just doesnt do it for me in terms of prefromance.... sis has one and its such a drag ...blah mobile...seems like the 30,000 entry luxo market cars are that way... the c230 isnt quick at all ...jag x type is slow as well and same with the 3 series (need to get a 330ci but thats 38k +) buy a used bmw 530I 2002ish (previous generation)
 
I have 3 Lexus-es, the 06 GS300, the 03 SC430 and 01 RX300.

I have never had a problem with any of them, and they are all fun to drive. A friend of mine has a 325-series BMW...might as well get a Corolla. However, another friend has a 330ci, and that thing is a blast.

I am a Lexus guy, but that 330 is fun. I never really considered the IS; too small.

If I were your age, I would save the cash. I am 29 now, and take my word for it, you'll still want cool cars when you;re older too...plus there is less tress when you know can afford them without a lot of headaches.

Just my 2 cents,
 
If your buying used then go Lexus. The IS is a nice and reliable car. It is a bit on the slow side but you can make it faster like I did to mine. Its still faster then the BMW 325 and costs like 10g's less.
 
just bought a 2002 acura 3.5 RL fully loaded navvy, leather, bose, 6 disc changer. At 22 years old I get more than a couple of stares and its backed by the dealer. Why buy an intro level beamer when you can have the pinnacle of class.
 
Nonerz said:
For 2004 & newer...from the BMW website.

BMW Full Maintenance. A whole different kind of fulfillment.

Maintenance is one of many hidden costs to consider when you’re looking at a car’s sticker price. For most cars, that is. Fortunately, BMW offers one of the most comprehensive maintenance programs in its class. Not that service is needed often, only every 15,000 miles or so. Just about anything your BMW might need replaced or serviced—brake pads, wiper blades, oil change, checkup—is fully covered for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.* Which will save you money and simplify your operating instructions considerably: Fill with gas. Point to horizon. Go.

Maintenance costs for 4 years/50,000 miles, whichever comes first:*


• Brake Pads: $0
• Brake Rotors: $0
• Engine Belts: $0
• Oil Changes: $0
• Wiper Blades: $0
• Inspections: $0

*Full Maintenance covers all factory-recommended maintenance on all MY 2004 vehicles and newer vehicles, as determined by the Service Level Indicator, for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. Exclusions from coverage: gasoline, gasoline additives, windshield washer additives, tires, wheels, wheel alignment, tire balancing and rotation. All work must be performed by an authorized BMW center. See the Service and Warranty Information booklet for more details and exclusions.

I still think the Lexus IS300 is the worst of them all - at least if you want your car to have some balls...but that's just me.
Click to expand...

This right here says it all. BMW has the best maintenance of anyone out there. Once a year oil change and anything in between is covered. When you add up all the service and oil changes in other cars it all comes out to equal what you would pay for a BMW. We have had 6 in 5 years and I keep thinking I am going to try something new and I keep going back to the BMW just different models. Right now I have the X5 4.8 and I love it, we may buy -it out after the lease is up or I will be getting an all-wheel 5 or used 7. Just make sure you have warranty or extended warranty.
 
Islandkurry said:
If your buying used then go Lexus. The IS is a nice and reliable car. It is a bit on the slow side but you can make it faster like I did to mine. Its still faster then the BMW 325 and costs like 10g's less.
Click to expand...

LOL isn't the new one the fastest in it's class?
 
BlondBomber said:
Thanks for the responses. I am currently debating whether to buy a car now, or start a investment portfolio. I am trying to steer away from the flashier things, but I would love to have a new car. Thinking of developing a long term plan, something very, very new to me.
Click to expand...


Bro, I drive Lincolns. I have a MK LT and a MK Z for the wife. Understated lux, IMO... Peace
 
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