BMW 116i. Great car.
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Forum Name: Irish Forum
Forum Discription: where Irish members can discuss upcoming events, etc.
URL: http://www.bavarian-board.co.uk/forum_posts.asp?TID=31656
Printed Date: 26-June-2024 at 12:55
Topic: BMW 116i. Great car.
Posted By: Mick525i
Subject: BMW 116i. Great car.
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 09:08
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My 525i is in Joeduffys again (nothing serious) but this time they gave me a brand new 116i. Man its a great little car. So much so my wife wants one. She wants a better spec than the es though..... I had a great drive too work this morning. Its normally 5 mins stop start stop start and Im there, but this morning over the hills and 45 mins later im there. I am now even more impressed. Yes it needs more power but who cares... I love it and I have only one question. M1???? please. The 3 series last week was a hughe let down. Its good to see BMW havnt got it all wrong. No must ring bank manager about ordering one for January. 07 D 116 maybe. Mick ------------- Cheers Mick 
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Replies:
Posted By: Richie
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 09:17
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Mick,I had a lend of a 118d last year and i was blown away by the cars handling and feel. It's got tonnes of poke and I was nearly crying handing back the keys...luckily enough they gave me a 2005 320d in it's place....even nicer!!!
I'd skip the 116 and go straight to the diesels!! ------------- Richie 
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Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 10:21
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Be a man and buy the 120d. '07 D 120 maybe. You'd have to be quick to get that plate though. Glad to hear they're a nice car to drive. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: Richie
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 10:26
Mick..use this as your inspiration.
 ------------- Richie
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Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 10:29
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Yea but a 116i sport list price is €33,000, and a 120d sport €41,850 for my wife to drive it 4-5K miles per year.. I dont think so.. the 116 will do fine.
Mick ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: Don520
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 10:34
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It may be a great drive, but 33K for a 1.6 litre
cramped hatchback!!! I don't think so, think what else you could drive with your hard earned. ------------- 95 520iSE Auto (sadly missed) |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 10:45
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Yea good point, How much better than an Astra could it be? But what will the depreaceation after 5 years be on both cars..? Astra 1.6 16v SXI €24,300, looks better too. But the most important point is MY WIFE WANTS THE BMW. end of story. Mick ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Don520 wrote:Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 11:15
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Women. Have you looked at the new Focus ST? €35,500 Anyway, I'm sure you'll both enjoy the 116 if thats what you both want. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: spokey
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 11:25
116i all the way. Your wife has got SOME taste.  ------------- Ciao, Spokey 
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Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 11:27
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Well I have to aggree ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: ///M3Mick
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 12:25
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Lads I must admit I'm with Jeremy Clarkson on this one. I have driven the 1 series and to be perfectly honest I think anyone would be mental to buy one when you can have a golf gti specced up to the hilt for practically the same money as the 1.6 and for tons less than the diesel. Its faster, cooler, roomier, handles as well, the engine is a peach with tons of torque, the steering wheel is to die for and the seats are fantastic. For the price of a 120d you could get leather, dsg and bose sound system thrown in. The 1 series is an inferior car in almost every respect and if it didn't have the propellor on the front it would be 10 grand cheaper almost certainly. Mick |
Posted By: Rapidude
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 13:02
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Mick, your spot on. The reason the 1 series is selling so well is because of the BMW Badge and beacuse its the cheapest Bmw you can buy. Golf GTI for the same money? I'd take the golf anyday..... ------------- ///M3 |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 13:47
Mick
All true but I brought her home a Golf (not the Gti) and she did not like the interior. You must understand I am dealing with a woman here and theres nothing logical about that..... Maybe she will have to keep her Mazda....
Mick ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: Skillie
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 16:13
| Wouldn't she be happier with a well specced cooper S?? could think of a very long long list of things i'd rather spend 33K on I'm afraid but womens brainwaves are deff a different frequency than our and they have some unfathomable way of making us go along with what they want!! |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 16:17
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She would love a Mini Cooper s as would I but 2 baby car seats are a bit of a squish. M ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 16:23
Before you buy a 1 series, bring two baby seats and a buggy to a BMW dealer and try to fit them in either car. Not sure the 1 has more room than the Mini. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 16:25
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That is SO TRUE. I almost had an M3 Evo, but now I have to keep my jeep so Pamela can tow the horse box. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 16:28
HAd it last night and it all went in no problem Mick ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: KenM
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 16:28
| Or you could always get a nice vauxhall monaro in from the UK? You'll fit two baby seats in that and at least there will be a "little" life under the bonnet?? |
Posted By: Kin Mak
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 16:52
Tax, insurance and running costs on that car would be insane. 
------------- http://www.kinmak.com - KinMak.com - http://www.elara.ie - Elara Online |
Posted By: KenM
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 16:55
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Tax peaks at 3 litre or something as far as I know... regarding insurance and running costs.... you "may" have a point.... Ah you'd get good 300 yards to the gallon I'd say so shouldn't be too bad.... as long as you don't drive it? |
Posted By: lukeduke
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 16:55
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its the golf for me also!!!!! baby seats! they go in the wife's car and not mine.. thank god! ------------- Previous: 2001 M3 2004 M3 CS. Current: 2007 318D SE SALOON. |
Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 16:56
------------- Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE 1997 E39 523i 2003 E39 525i Sport Individual |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 17:06
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My thought too..... ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 17:07
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Isn't it a 5 litre V8? What the hell is 42-39-56? Hope it's not your measurements. That would really slow you down in Mondello. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 17:07
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The 116 is for the wife... ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 17:11
I suppose you're lucky in some ways. She could have taken a fancy to the new X3. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: Kin Mak
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 17:13
5Litre...  ------------- http://www.kinmak.com - KinMak.com - http://www.elara.ie - Elara Online |
Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 17:19
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oops - too busy working!
------------- Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE 1997 E39 523i 2003 E39 525i Sport Individual |
Posted By: M3DAVE
Date Posted: 04-July-2006 at 23:29
| DO NOT buy a 116, great car no doubt, drives really well but you WILL loose your a*se on it in no time, bought one Feb 05 for the wife, gave € 32 k with some toys, she did 30k kms and the best money I could get back was € 23k a month ago !!!! That was retail through a garage doing me a MASSIVE favour, I know alot of lads in the trade and couldnt get any better, Keanes offered 24k on a trade in against a 05 318 touring ( boggo ) he wanted 36k for the e46 ( not e90 ), I asked would he buy the 1 into stock and he laughed, no trade in no deal !!!! AND the run flats are nearly a grand for 4 ( if you can get them ) KEEP AWAY !!! There made in Austria too by the way not in Germany, if that matters to you. A year old E46 316/318 is the way to go for roughly the same money, thats what I did !!!! |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 05-July-2006 at 08:17
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Thaks for the insight. I will have to think about it more. Nothing going to be done till January now anyway. Cheers
Mick ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: ///M3Mick
Date Posted: 05-July-2006 at 09:24
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Mick Just because you can just about fit the stuff in does not make it a great family car. Has she even test driven the golf gti? Cos if she has and still desires a 116i more, then I would have to consider divorce on the grounds on insanity. Seriously, the difference in the amount of room is unreal. The 1 series is a joke as a 4 door....the amount of room in the back is ridiculously small. Just weigh up the pros and cons of each car in each area, and you will see the 1 series is deficient in practically every one, except possibly cachet (and that I'm not even sure of any more). The fact is rwd is totally irrelevant because she is not going to be doing powerslides with the kids in the back, (if you even could maintain a slide with a 1.6). In fact I would go so far as to say that a standard 1.6 ford focus, let alone the ST, is a better all round car for what it is. Mick |
Posted By: 73touring
Date Posted: 05-July-2006 at 11:13
BM have kind of f%^ked themselves up on the M front for the 1 series with the 70's procar M1, should have brought back the 2002 has the same setup small car RWD, hell guys even build M2's using the E30 M3 engine in an 02.  |
Posted By: KenM
Date Posted: 05-July-2006 at 11:32
| Theres a lovely clean 2002 based out by me.... red one.... great reg plate on it... would be perfect as a present for the Mrs.. reg is "2 Nik"... my wifes name is Nikki |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 05-July-2006 at 12:06
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Yes Ken. I'm sure your wife would love a BMW 2002. But if you can't afford that you could get her a bowling ball with your name inscribed on it. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 05-July-2006 at 12:11
Simpsons fan???? ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 05-July-2006 at 12:15
Did his avatar not give that away? ------------- Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE 1997 E39 523i 2003 E39 525i Sport Individual |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 05-July-2006 at 12:18
I not very observant Can you tell what car my avatar is from.? Mick ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 05-July-2006 at 13:28
Yes we can. Duuh! Looks like the needle on the right is broken. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: lukeduke
Date Posted: 05-July-2006 at 17:31
you can never win in the car trade when you by new! you loose your nuts 1 year later to trade up again...  ------------- Previous: 2001 M3 2004 M3 CS. Current: 2007 318D SE SALOON. |
Posted By: 73touring
Date Posted: 06-July-2006 at 15:55
| Hey Killian you would'nt be a secret AC/DC fan with those Measurements by any chance? give it socks for Bon! |
Posted By: kbannon
Date Posted: 06-July-2006 at 16:20
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Fair Play - its being discussed http://www.bmwcarclubforum.co.uk/forum_posts.asp?TID=31675&PN=0&TPN=2 - here... and I make no secret about it! ------------- Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE 1997 E39 523i 2003 E39 525i Sport Individual |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 06-July-2006 at 16:23
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Alternating Current / Direct Current. How can you be a fan of that? Whats going on? ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: T.J.
Date Posted: 10-July-2006 at 13:07
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I was going to say a new Skoda vRS would be a nice motor to pick up, but your wife probably thinks it's manky!!! ------------- Mazda 6 MPS S1 Elise 135 Sport Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon http://www.bmwcarclubireland.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-3254"> 
Formerly E39 TDS, E36 M3, E36 328i, E34 525i, E34 518i |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 10-July-2006 at 13:09
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If I took the badges off and didnt tell her she would be quite happy.. ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: GusK
Date Posted: 10-July-2006 at 13:57
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My sister sold her 1.4 Golf that she had bought new in 2000 for a 116i Sport last year. She had paid £14k for Golf 5 years ago (it had a couple of nice options, climate, alloys, etc) and I sold it to a girl in my office last summer with 70k miles on the clock for €10.5k. That's cheap motoring in my view! When she ordered the 116i she loaded the thing with extras (despite my advice) and got sports pack, 18" Wheels, leather, keyless go, parking sensors, xexons etc etc etc. I think the car was somewhere round the €42k mark!!! Three months later a chance came up for her to move to the State with work and she decided to take it so she went back to the dealers to see if they'd take it back...it had about 3k kms on it at this stage. Best they'd offer her was €31k. In the end I sold it to a guy through an ad in the Irish Times for €38k. But from a couple of guys I know in the trade, they all seem to be killing the values of 1 Series at the moment. Hence, my wife picked up her 10k kms, 2005 Golf Gti on Saturday. 1 Series was not even on the shopping list. ------------- Currently: E90 330d Sport Previously: X5 3.0i Sport, E46 M3, E46 318ci,E30 318is. |
Posted By: T.J.
Date Posted: 10-July-2006 at 15:04
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I think the glut of €450/month deals from BMW on the 1 means it'll kill residuals come trade-in time for any owners. What it'll do to the forecourt value will remain to be seen, but I suspect it'll stay strong enough. As a package it's a good car. ------------- Mazda 6 MPS S1 Elise 135 Sport Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon http://www.bmwcarclubireland.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-3254">
Formerly E39 TDS, E36 M3, E36 328i, E34 525i, E34 518i |
Posted By: Emmet323
Date Posted: 11-July-2006 at 03:32
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Got to take a 130i for a spin in the UK last week and it was HUGE fun! :) I must admit i orginally hated the looks of the car but it's been slowly growing on me, strangely reminisant of the Z3 M Coupe (which is a love/hate car too i guess). 265bhp is not to be sneezed at and the dealership were far more accomadating than i've ever had at Joe Duffy. The guy went out of his way to make sure i'd a chance to really open her up on a half hour test drive (all the while warning me of upcoming speed traps! :D ) Have to admit i was impressed. Very nice to drive. |
Posted By: T.J.
Date Posted: 11-July-2006 at 13:34
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I'd love a 130i sport I must say. 3 litres and rwd in a 5dr hatch - brilliant!! I'd throw a limmo into it though. ------------- Mazda 6 MPS S1 Elise 135 Sport Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon http://www.bmwcarclubireland.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-3254">
Formerly E39 TDS, E36 M3, E36 328i, E34 525i, E34 518i |
Posted By: Skillie
Date Posted: 11-July-2006 at 15:10
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Sorry guys I reckon yere BMW bias has gone too far, i think the one is a hateful little car. There are a raft of hot hatches i'd rather have. It looks like a mazda 3 for cryin out loud and the mazda is prob better looking. Think its a 30 year old female real estate agents car. Even with the 3litre lump I'd rather a Golf GTI, Astra VXR, Alfa 147 GTV, Focus ST, S3, Clio V6 etc etc etc just because it has the propellers on the bonnet doesn't make it a great car or even a good one. I'll take cover now ------------- Now: 03 Nissan 350Z 98 E36 318i Touring Previous: 94 E34 520i (FOR SALE needs engine but running and cheap as chips) 95 E36 328i Coupe 95 E36 316iSE Saloon |
Posted By: T.J.
Date Posted: 11-July-2006 at 15:26
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I agree, I even went onto Fords website to check prices and finance for a new Focus ST220 in a moment of ...something! I love them to bits in orange or blue! But part of the reason I love them is that they have a big car quality (i.e. 2.5L 5 cyl) in a small package. Which is why I like the 130i too, and the R32/R34 Golfs. I don't think you could compare a Clio V6 with any of the hot hatches though. And in another run for cover moment, I love the way the 1 looks, and the X3, which I'd take over an X5 ANY day! PS in terms of bang for buck, the 130i is blown out of the water, but I'm talking sheer desirability as a package. ------------- Mazda 6 MPS S1 Elise 135 Sport Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon http://www.bmwcarclubireland.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-3254">
Formerly E39 TDS, E36 M3, E36 328i, E34 525i, E34 518i |
Posted By: Robbie Bradford
Date Posted: 11-July-2006 at 16:40
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I'm sure you could pick up a Focus RS for similar money or less. The only Ford i have any interest in, they look the dogs. ------------- http://www.BMW-driver.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=21 - http://www.BMW-driver.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=21 |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 11-July-2006 at 16:54
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My wife already looked at a mazda 3... O and she is 30.... Mick ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: Skillie
Date Posted: 11-July-2006 at 17:12
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LOL no offence intended mate. Each to their own as far as i'm concerned but for what it is i think its an expensive commuter car ------------- Now: 03 Nissan 350Z 98 E36 318i Touring Previous: 94 E34 520i (FOR SALE needs engine but running and cheap as chips) 95 E36 328i Coupe 95 E36 316iSE Saloon |
Posted By: Emmet323
Date Posted: 11-July-2006 at 23:49
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Ah hell ya can't be bringing money into the equation! ;) No doubt there's a lot more value to be had out there but having driven it first hand i'm a convert as far as the 130i is concerned. I'll give it a couple of years though and snap one up second hand from the UK. |
Posted By: Don520
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 08:54
Now I've heard everything, the X3! That is surely the worst styled BMW ever! As a fan of BMW since the early 80's I have lost all faith in the marque to design something that I would want to own. The final nail in the coffin came with the ditching of the driver focused console, for years they had been telling us that it resulted in optimum ergonomics, then they make the dash convex! There used to be an intergrity to BMW design, now its all about funky surfaces and strange shapes. Until they re-discover their ethos the E39 is the last BMW I will covet. ------------- 95 520iSE Auto (sadly missed) |
Posted By: spokey
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 09:18
But have you driven one? I went to the launch with no preconceptions, I didn't like the look of the car, and to be honest, I still don't really like the look of the car. However, when I tipped the car into the first corner, I knew I was driving something special. I ran a cruise recently, Z1, Z3, Z3M and Z4. And a 116i. And sure, on the straights, we all drilled it. But in the corners, it was really special. If you drive a 1er and you still don't like it, you should probably switch to Skoda, Audi or Volkswagen anyway. ------------- Ciao, Spokey
|
Posted By: T.J.
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 10:38
Now I've heard everything, the X3! That is surely the worst styled BMW ever! [/QUOTE] I like to compare car styling with kitchens... some people dig the traditional farmhouse-style kitchens with their patterned wooden doors, extractor hidden in wood with the frilly pattern around the edges etc etc.. they probably drive an E-class. I dig clean, functional kitchens, with bold colours on some doors, none on others, a bit of silver in there, shelves with parrallelogram hinges with that lovely damped and balanced action etc etc.. So for me, the X3 is an automotive extension of that. It's technical, it has some challenging detailing, the interior has a clean minimalism about it (though I really don't like the fact they lost the driver-centric console either). I think it looks generally cool, and so much 'younger' than the X5 for example. Each to their own of course! ------------- Mazda 6 MPS S1 Elise 135 Sport Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon http://www.bmwcarclubireland.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-3254">
Formerly E39 TDS, E36 M3, E36 328i, E34 525i, E34 518i |
Posted By: Don520
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 11:11
|
Nice analogies! I also like cool design, but I like it to
have integrity and concept behind it. I love that the flanks of a 5 series are inspired by the ribs on airships like the Hindenburg, the E60 is bold yet cohesive, it gels. I think the design has longevity and that will be appreciated by owners. I couldn't live with the interior though. The X3 is a mish mash of exterior shapes and lines, a bit of flame surfacing here, a lash of hoffmeister kink, a bit of faux 4x4 ruggedness there. It has no integrity, no sense of longevity, when its replacement comes out owners will simply feel like fools and will look to hop into the latest offering. It shouts out that BMW didn't care, it simply new it would sell due the badge. I'm no fan of the X5 either by the way! As you say, each to their own, maybe I'm just getting old...  ------------- 95 520iSE Auto (sadly missed) |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 11:33
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The X3 isn't really selling that well. Very few of them around where I live compared to loads of Disco's, Freelanders and X5's. If BMW kept with the traditional styling their cars would now be seen as boring! I think the 1 and X3 interiors look rubbish though. The 3 and 5 look nice, if a little different. Anyway DON520, at least you can aspire to a good e39. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: kdevitt
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 11:38
Might have something to do with one of the most appalingly cheap interiors I've ever sat into - the plastics appear to be made of recycled crisp bags or something. Wouldn't be out of place in a Ssangyong or something. Agree completely with Don520 about the 1er. One of my main priorities will always be how the car looks, and since I think its ugly as sin, the quality of drive is irrelevant to me. Having a lend of a Golf GTi for the past few days has only reinforced my attitude to the rip off that is the 1 series ! ------------- http://www.bmw-driver.net - BMW-Driver.net |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 11:46
|
Actually now that I think about it, there are loads and loads of Ssangyong and Kia 4x4's around. My aunt bought a new top spec Kia Sportage a while ago. €41000. she's nuts. What's it going to be worth in two years when she trades it? ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: T.J.
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 11:59
|
I agree the X3 doesn't have interior plastic quality to live up to its price the way the X5 does. And I will also admit that my 1st impressions of the X3 were not favourable. But it quickly grew on me despite my best efforts alas! I also drove a 2006 2.0D X3 and came away very impressed. It was tight on the road, didn't feel cumbersome at all, nippy enough for what it was, and I really enjoyed chucking it about. Anyway, tis all academic as A) I can't afford to drop €50k on a motor B) If I could, it wouldn't be on an X3 unless... C) .. I could afford to also have a sports car for fun (Elise, Clio V6, ZM Coupe et al) Never the less, I like to stir it up! ------------- Mazda 6 MPS S1 Elise 135 Sport Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon http://www.bmwcarclubireland.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-3254">
Formerly E39 TDS, E36 M3, E36 328i, E34 525i, E34 518i |
Posted By: lesurely
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 12:06
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The 1 is a bmw, value for money does not come into the equation if you want one be prepared to pay. Same goes for any bmw from the shop floor they aint cheep. BMW have a certain image ( O' he drives a new bmw he must be loaded) and some people are prepared to pay to keep that image. I seen a 1 with the full kit on it and she looked very well. ------------- e30 325is (deceased) e36 318is under major construction E39 530D Sport mtec (all the bells and whistles ) Basic unit of laryngitis: 1 hoarsepower lesurely |
Posted By: T.J.
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 12:14
So coming back to topic Mick.... are ye gonna pick up the family 116i?  ------------- Mazda 6 MPS S1 Elise 135 Sport Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon http://www.bmwcarclubireland.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-3254">
Formerly E39 TDS, E36 M3, E36 328i, E34 525i, E34 518i |
Posted By: kdevitt
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 12:15
Thats where I think us BMW owners are deluding ourselves. BMW has no such image - they're just another common car that drives well at this stage imho. The 1 series just dilutes the brand even further. ------------- http://www.bmw-driver.net - BMW-Driver.net |
Posted By: lesurely
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 12:47
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The 1 series is a little OTT, but bmw do have an image. Most bmw's from the showroom are well out of reach to the ordinary joe bloggs. I would love to get a new 3 series coupe but couldnt afford it for almost half the money I could buy a new opel toyota etc. Not saying all people are the same but if you see , say for example a new 3 coupe the person driving is more than likely trying to portray a certain image and that is why they are prepared to pay for that badge. Dont get me wrong I would not begrudge anyone if you have the few bob and can afford it then you would buy a car to that level of income within reason. (here it comes) ------------- e30 325is (deceased) e36 318is under major construction E39 530D Sport mtec (all the bells and whistles ) Basic unit of laryngitis: 1 hoarsepower lesurely |
Posted By: T.J.
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 13:32
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A common car that drives uncommonly well, which is why we keep getting them. But the majority of the owners don't have the interest or savvy to pick up on the subtleties of the E46 chassis over, say, an Audi A4 or Saab 9³. So why do they buy them? Image. What they perceive the car says about them to others. Give it time - Clarkson (who is the only motor journalist non-car people know and read/watch) will slowly instill in the general public that BMW is mass-production & increasingly common, and some of the shine of the perceived image will wane. ------------- Mazda 6 MPS S1 Elise 135 Sport Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon http://www.bmwcarclubireland.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pos=-3254">
Formerly E39 TDS, E36 M3, E36 328i, E34 525i, E34 518i |
Posted By: kdevitt
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 13:56
As much as Clarkson can irk me with his contrary comments on BMWs (preview pic of E90 - he loved it, when reviewing it he didn't - I watch too much UK G2 :D) he is right about the cars being mass-production and to some extent being common. Stats for the year to date here have BMW's outselling Mercedes, Skoda, Audi, Honda, Fiat, Kia, Citroen, Mazda, Seat, Volvo, Mistubishi, Lexus, Saab, Subaru, Alfa and a host of other stuff - such as Tata???. Just ahead in sales are Hyundai, Peugeot and Renault - and then the real mass-production stuff - Opel, Nissan, VW, Ford and Toyota. As a brand, I do think BMW's are becoming increasingly common, but the likes of the M cars will always be rare enough. ------------- http://www.bmw-driver.net - BMW-Driver.net |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 14:39
I always thought it was "Oh, he drives a BMW, to**er". Anyway BMW's are becoming more common here because we all have too much money (or the bank will lend us too much) and we want nice things. BMW's are nice cars. Even the most basic 116i. Lots of people are happy with a good reliable car and aren't bothered by bells and whistles. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: Skillie
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 15:05
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This is the best debate since the Roy Keane/Mick McCarthy civil war!! ------------- Now: 03 Nissan 350Z 98 E36 318i Touring Previous: 94 E34 520i (FOR SALE needs engine but running and cheap as chips) 95 E36 328i Coupe 95 E36 316iSE Saloon |
Posted By: lesurely
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 15:21
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I think we should start a poll image V no image any takers ------------- e30 325is (deceased) e36 318is under major construction E39 530D Sport mtec (all the bells and whistles ) Basic unit of laryngitis: 1 hoarsepower lesurely |
Posted By: Mick525i
Date Posted: 12-July-2006 at 18:17
Alex You hit the nail on the head. Too much money around. Im not decieded on buying a 116 but I still think its a good car. We dont need a 200 bhp golf and I dont like them anyway. Lets start a pole . BMW. status symble or "just another car" Mick ------------- Cheers Mick
BMW E21 318 1980 BMW E39 525i 2002 MTech VW Golf Gti 2003 |
Posted By: steven.seed
Date Posted: 13-July-2006 at 08:56
Similar one been running http://www.bmwcarclubforum.co.uk/forum_posts.asp?TID=31564&PN=1 - HERE for a few days guys. ------------- 1998 E36 318iS Saloon 1989 E30 318i. Coupe 2000 E39 520i Touring 
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Posted By: Emmet323
Date Posted: 13-July-2006 at 13:49
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I'll be the first to admit that until i drove one i was in the camp where bmw owners were knobs with more money than sense. Having owned my E46 323 for less than 6 months now i've struggled to find what to replace it with and believe me i've looked, but nothing quite drives like it and i couldn't be a*sed about the badge (i happily considered everything from A4s to Skoda Vrs but still found myself enjoying the drive home more!). By the way the only reason i'm looking to replace it is my better half (coming from a 1.0 Corsa!) has decided it's 'her' car now :D Having said that the vast majority of Irish buy bmws purely for the badge(what % 316/318s?) and even though they're all over the place they still attract badge snobbery. Despite the car being 6 years old i've gotton more than a few "how can you afford a bmw?" type questions.. Seriously thinking of a 330i.... |
Posted By: spokey
Date Posted: 13-July-2006 at 13:51
130i!  ------------- Ciao, Spokey
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Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 13-July-2006 at 14:49
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Tell me about it. Everytime someone sees my Z3 they say "business must be real good then" or "you must be charging too much". If I had a brand spanking new Ford Focus in Silver nobody would bat an eyelid. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: lesurely
Date Posted: 13-July-2006 at 15:06
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As I said -------IMAGE---------- ------------- e30 325is (deceased) e36 318is under major construction E39 530D Sport mtec (all the bells and whistles ) Basic unit of laryngitis: 1 hoarsepower lesurely |
Posted By: Don520
Date Posted: 13-July-2006 at 16:17
I must say that's not what i think when I see someone driving a Z3....  ------------- 95 520iSE Auto (sadly missed) |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 13-July-2006 at 16:39
Yes I suppose a lot of people do. If I had a '06 Z4M then it would be true, but sadly I don't. I suppose I'm lucky with my circumstances right now. No rent or mortgage and no kids so an impractical two seat convertible is just right for me. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: Curley
Date Posted: 15-July-2006 at 17:47
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The image is diluted, God be with the days that you could only buy M3s in limited numbers, the E46 320d has practically out sold the Mondeo in the UK as the favourite rep mobile for chist sake, were's the image in that ?? As for the history lesson : stock 2002s back in the 70's used to be the same price as an e-type jag new and motor import used to be limited to importing 50 cars/year. If you wanted image back then you purchased the E-type Jag, if you wanted a great driving machine you purchased BMW... its why I drive them... BTW, never judge the man by the car he drives, Keith Richards was driving around Kildare in a black '92 Sierra last time I saw him.... how that for image !!! |
Posted By: flyingalexf68
Date Posted: 15-July-2006 at 19:08
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Yes and Damon Hill drove a Honda Shuttle when he lived in Dublin. ------------- 1995 e36 3.0 M3 Coupe, Daytona Violet, AP Racing BBK, CCFL Angel Eyes, M3 Spoiler, M-Tec 3 Steering Wheel. 2000 530d Steptronic, Poverty Spec, 18" Alloys. |
Posted By: nn_dd
Date Posted: 17-July-2006 at 07:23
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With bodykit = 56,000 Euro !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We'll not start about value for money on that one, that'll depreciate like a pug 607 ! ------------- E39 530d Touring |