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hi, i currently own a e46 320i 2001 done 130+k and have just spent over 3k servicing ( fuel pump, front arms ? gasket etc ) and thought it quite expensive to maintain and perhaps a good time to change, been thinking of suv, rav4?, being japanese maybe cheaper to maintain ? and a bit of space to carry stuff? do you know if it will get worse if i keep current car in terms of maintenance,even though i have spent a lot on servicing and keeping. the previous service i also had transmission oil change, tensioner , and sparks replaced etc and spent over 2k.
Regardless of the fact you own a BMW, any vehicle of this age and mileage will continue to cost you money.
Owing any European car simply raises the risk levels a lot higher.
A lot of that can be because of the specification levels on the Euro's; a Toyota RAV4 is a sensible choice but its no BMW in terms of spec and comfort levels.
thanks points taken. i have also been toying with the idea of either getting say a 20012002 merc benz cl500, i just love the shape ! some i saw were abt 70k mileage or a newer model bm 3 series ( 2005 onwards), another 320 perhaps, any comment on these two choices? i read some good remarks on bmw diesel. thanks
I'm not sure I could talk you out of owing one of these vehicles to be honest.
Some people just need to get them out of their system one way or the other. I don't disagree with you in regards to the Merecedes Benz shape and overall appeal, but I would be very nervous all the same at this age particularly if they were used imports out of Singapore.
They do carry some baggage with electricial wiring problems due to the high humidity in that country.
Best advice is to do all the checks and take your time making your selection.
You may regret buying a safer more practicial option with no appeal or wow factor.
thanks, what do you think of the newer bm 3 series ? say 2005/6 onwards. or would you generally recommend a japanese make?
The BMW would be a very nice car, just be prepared for the potential to spend more on higher overall ownership costs.
To confuse you even more, have you thought about a Lexus?
Many thanks, indeed i have. Looking at trademe for eg, most Lexus are either high mileage or high price ( for me), the only more reasonable one is es 300 with reasonable price and mileage but the car, to me, is just too bulky !
yes, i have been looking and discover that i would be quite happy with a harrier, can you comment on this, the different models and 4x4 and only front wheel drive features.