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Hi,
I am about to buy a new used car this week. I have been looking around the market and the following two cars are my preference.
1- BMW 120I, 2009, 2 lt , 45,000 km Japan imported. Grey
2- Mazda Axela Istop 2009, 2lt 50,00 km Japan imported. Black
The cars don't have much difference of price and I drove test them already. I am planning to keep the car for 1 or 2 years max. My questions are.
-What are the risks of buying these imported cars?
-Which car will have a lower maintenance cost? I used to have a brand new Mazda 3 back in 2008 and every time that I serviced it, it cost me $800 to 900 average. No experience with BNW.
- I am considering to arrange a mechanical break down insurance, should I do it for whichever I get or just do it for the BMW as this car tends to be more expensive to repair.
- I don't have issues with the fuel consumption. However, Could you tell me which one could be more economic?
- Which car will be easier to sell over 2 years and get better value for the money?
I appreciate your help and your prompt response
With a used import you don't have traceable service records and the vehicles won't have the same specifications as a NZ new models.
Both vehicles have good reputations but as you can expect the BMW will cost slightly more on repairs and servicing as it's a premium vehicle and the parts to build the car costs more. However, the $800 - $900 average you were paying for the Mazda 3 seems a bit excessive - that must be for more than a basic service.
Mechanical warranty insurance is always a good idea on any used vehicle but for a fairly new, low mileage vehicle the chances are you might not need it anytime soon - but it will give you a bit of a safety net if something major fails.
The fuel economy will be almost identical but the BMW will be slightly more fuel efficient - this will also depend on external factors.
Both vehicles should be easy to sell if they are priced right but the Mazda should hold its value better as most people are nervous of buying a used Euro vehicle due to their reputation as expensive to repair.
You have already owned a NZ new 2008 Mazda 3 so it might be time to try something new.
Thank you very much for your advice. I forgot to mention that the Mazda 3 that I bought was in my country in 2008. Anyway.
I have another question. how much would it cost to maintain the BMW considering a typical service (oil, filters, safety checks) vs Mazda ? Just for reference.
Thanks
The standard vs Euro vehicle service at the AA Auto Service and Repair has a $70 difference.