I think that gen suffers from automatic transmission and head gasket reliability issues so yeah manual would be better. My friend had a 3 series and seemed to always be fixing it.
I know that 07+ 335i’s have dropped in value because of reliability issues but I was under the impression pre direct injection/turbo they were pretty reliable.
I would not get an automatic bmw ever again. My 530i blew the reverse drum and it was PITA to fix. Huge issue with the transmissions in those. I never seen a head gasket problem in any e46 just really oil leaks(valve cover, oil filter housing etc). And some have the PCV breather problem but bmw sells the whole kit to fix it.
You can get many newer Bmws under 20k. Even like an 08-10 535i. The turbo cars really are not as bad as everyone thinks. Once you get past your first couple issues its pretty much smooth sailing. Drove a highly modified 335xi back and fourth from florida twice now. Never left me stranded. You can pick up a 335 cheap,just keep some money aside for the water pump when it goes. If no documentation do the plugs and coils, get the intakes blasted. Preventative maintenance is huge. If you have any 335 questions pm me I have a couple that a regularly maintenance and had one myself.
If you’re planning on putting a lot of miles on something and keeping it well past 100k a factory twin turbo car like a N54 BMW is NOT the route to go…There are a fuck ton of people on here who sold theirs well under 100k because of issues feel free to search the topic has been beaten to death.
Besides the HPFP, Injectors, coils, water pumps, turbos, wastegates and some other things im missing they’re reliable the issue is all those parts are costly and extremely cost if the dealership has to do it.
I have an 2007 e90 xi N54, and while they had their issues, just find a used one that had the HPFP and turbos replaced already and you will be in decent shape. Maintenance is costly, but if you keep up with it and don’t beat on it too bad you will be fine. If you are handy enough to make some repairs or maintenance on your own the smiles you will have driving it are well worth it.
that E46 shown in your link is kind of expensive, but probably due to low mileage.
On my old E46 I had a plastic coolant expansion tank crack and leak…$120 part from dealer i put in myself in about 5 mins…other than that, extremely good/reliable car for over 5 years that I had it. I have no complaints about that car, it was awesome.
I have no idea what the auto transmissions are like though, like someone stated…only owned manuals. @93dx–hatch knows a good amount about these as well - probably can find something similar that you posted for 7 or so.
The N54 car with service records I drive now is just as reliable, if not more. If you buy a car that has records of hpfp (which is most), was treated right, and care for the cars even half-assed, you won’t be disappointed. You’ll also be happy you bought one once you do compared to just about any other manufacturer. Going on 7 years, I don’t know there will be a time in my life I don’t own a BMW again. There’s not a whole lot like them.
My only advice is - with buying any bmw - make certain it has sport package. They’re a bit more boring without them if you care about suspension/wheels/seats/steeringwheel/everything that makes this car cool…and get a manual.
My only advice is - with buying any bmw - make certain it has sport package. They’re a bit more boring without them if you care about suspension/wheels/seats/steeringwheel/everything that makes this car cool…and get a manual.[/QUOTE]
x2 on this. I’ve had my 2007 335i since 52k miles and it now is closing in on 110k. I made sure the car was taken care of properly before me and I have not been disappointed. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had a couple problems along the way, but nothing crazy or totally unexpected. It is a really fun car to drive, gets good gas mileage, is easy to mod and has all of the creature comforts you could ask for. It’s hard to beat these things when you’re considering bang for your buck.
i would never recommend an n54 motor to any of my friends, i had nothing but headaches with mine and ended up getting rid of it because we couldnt figure out the exact issue
if youre looking for a good e92 chassis I would def say 2006 330i. they only made it one year but I bet you can find that car with low(er) miles loaded up with sport and premium for sub 15k im sure.