E90 2005 323i 94000km - R126000 Worth it?

[Nokoff]

Hi guys, my ford focus was recently written off due to flood damage -_- and i'm in the market for a new car.

My price range is sort of R130 000 max, unless it's like a SUPERB deal with motor plan left etc, then could maybe stretch to R139 000.



I'm looking at this particular one (best price i could find on gum), specs are:
2005 323i
94000km
Full Service History at BMW, out of motor plan October last year.
R126000



Went to see and drive the car today, drives nicely, interior is immaculate and exterior is nice, only one scratch on the front right bumper, mags are clean without scratches etc. I don't really know what to look for but I opened up the bonnet and the engine looked clean enough and the paint looked consistent with the body so I don't think it's been in any accidents.

He told me the clutch was replaced at about 70000km, said it was a "common problem" on the E90, not so sure about that but anyway... at least it's a new clutch right? It's also due for a service soon (Which he told me would only cost about R1700) but I'm not sure about that either... I mean it is a major service isn't it? At 100000km?

I've driven many newer Kia's, Hyundai's etc, but IMO there's nothing quite like the driving pleasure of the BMWs. I have to admit that this car felt a bit sluggish at 140km/h +, even coming from my 2.0L ford, but ye, i guess it's no 325i.

I've also been looking at the 320D 2005/2006 model with less than 140000km on the clock as they seem to be priced similarly, i know that they have more power and the fuel economy is better but I'm not crazy about the sound of the engine and I've also been told that they work out to be more expensive in the long run when you factor in service intervals, turbo replacement etc.

Any advice guys? Should I take the car at this price? Is it a bargain? I know I would really like the 325i but they seem to be priced outside of my price range. Any first hand experience with this car would be greatly appreciated.

Kind regards
Nokoff

 

[Spy007]

for that you can get a 2004 330d Individual.

 

[Nokoff]

But then it's got high mileage, no guarantee of the condition of the engine/clutch/gearbox etc. Whole thing could pack up on me and then what...

 

[Spy007]

So How is that different to the 323 your looking At?

 

[Jakkals_F30]

Got a 06 323i....

Really not a bad car at all... don't expect too much performance up here with the car cause it sure as hell aint no robot racer... easily cruises 200+ even though you don't need the speed. overlall a really great car and the only issue i had with mine was a shudder when pulling off. Stealers replaced flywheel and a clutch kit and all sorted...

Take care of the car and it won't let you down

Alos make sure to run the plates past Coisman to check if the car was in any accidents etc and make sure you know what was all done while the car was on motorplan...
Also see you said car felt sluggish at 140+ ??? mine aint sluggish around that speed and herr bmw should also be able to vouch for his 323i not being sluggish at that speed...

 

[Philip Foglar]

That's a very good price I reckon! :thumbs:

 

[Spy007]

AND FYI

New car or Second-hand there are no guarantees that something might not go wrong. Al depends on Who drove it and how it was looked after.

Sold my 2005 Touring with 200000 on the Clock and I will buy it back in a heartbeat as I bought it with 100 000 on the clock.

Below list Il take the 530d Anyday.

But just to show you that there are lots out there for what you want to spend.

As for Diesel Vs Petrol. That debate will go on and on and on.

I sold my Petrol and went diesel and I am happy. But thats different stokes for different Folks.


Make
BMW
Model
5 SERIES
Derivative
530 d
Price
R129900
Body Type
Sedan
Transmission
Steptronic
Manufacture Year
2004
Colour
Blue
Mileage
157000 km
Doors
4

Make
BMW
Model
3 SERIES
Derivative
330 d Sportspack
Price
R109900
Body Type
Sedan
Transmission
Steptronic
Manufacture Year
2004
Colour
White
Mileage
156000 km
Doors
4

Make
BMW
Model
3 SERIES
Derivative
323 I
Price
R129900
Body Type
Sedan
Transmission
Manual 6 Speed
Manufacture Year
2006
Colour
Blue
Mileage
183000 km
Doors
4

 

[herr bmw]

go for a diesel.

 

[Spy007]

go for a diesel.

+10000000000000000000000

---

http://www.bmwfanatics.co.za/showthread.php?tid=29745


Worth It.

 

[CamZo]

Hey bud you wont be dissapointed with a diesel..... I have had no problems with my diesel it needs to looked after well. I am selling my E46 330d to buy a E87 120d. If u interested PM me.

 

[prado]

Seems like a good deal. Moving from a Focus to an E90 to me is a great thing! Take your chances and offer them R120 000! They may say 122 500!

Have the car checked up for the sluggishness if the garage would allow you. A test at a mechanic with the diagnostic tools may pick up something.

But full service history is good news. And with Coisman's generous assistance, you will get some peace of mind.

Get a good service centre if BMWs prices are too high - from experience, I have maintained two 5 series BMWs over a 12 year period at prices that keep me smiling.

I have had water pumps replaced, cylinder heads blown three times! and even suspension work done. I have replaced plug wires, alternators etc. and honestly, it didn't cost any more than it would with any car.

But, I do have a network of great mechanics and a genuine source for parts.

So, personally, I don't have that notorious fear for BMWs. I'd rather drive BMWs than anything else - fuel consumption is fine - reliability for me - no problem.

I would encourage anyone to buy a good BMW. If the price is right and the condition satisfies you, go for it! We only live once (on Earth! and that's where the BMWs are). :=):

 

[Karthik]

I say take this 323i , it sounds quite much like a good buy

 

[Caddy101]

Got a 06 323i....

Really not a bad car at all... don't expect too much performance up here with the car cause it sure as hell aint no robot racer... easily cruises 200+ even though you don't need the speed. overlall a really great car and the only issue i had with mine was a shudder when pulling off. Stealers replaced flywheel and a clutch kit and all sorted...

Take care of the car and it won't let you down

Alos make sure to run the plates past Coisman to check if the car was in any accidents etc and make sure you know what was all done while the car was on motorplan...
Also see you said car felt sluggish at 140+ ??? mine aint sluggish around that speed and herr bmw should also be able to vouch for his 323i not being sluggish at that speed...

Just like Jakkals, I also have an 06 323. I love it!
I wish it had a little bit more power though. I've been meaning to drive to the coast and see how it feels there.

Otherwise, its a fantastic car all round, if you get one you won't kick yourself.

 

[XMAX]

my brother owns a '07 323i in durbs. Ive driven the car. whilst its no quarter miler it did have sufficient punch once youre into second gear...

for that price, you could go for an e60.. seen a few 523i's for around that price. it will be a lil slower due to the size, but a 5 series is a superb vehicle.. if youre into that kind of car...


if diesel is an option, try to go for the '07 and above 320d (the one with the 130kw engine), or any 330d (thought you wont find a good e90 330d for that price, you could look at a great e46 individual)...


I drive an '05 320d. I feel to be a bit sluggish, but thats coming from me previously driving an e46 330d, and a 325i....I have driven the 130kw 320d, and its a much better drive...


Good luck with the purchase... BTW. IF that 323i checks out with BMW and Coismans check, its a good deal as well.

 

[Hellas]

Some dealers have trouble selling stock. I (force) bought my BMW from the dealer with a R20k discount, 4 new tyres, new towbar fitted, resprayed bumper for chips and 3 tanks of complimentary fuel... And this was not a dud or a code 3 car. BMW approved.

 

[Nokoff]

thanks for all the advice guys... its very much appreciated. i must admit im very much considering the e46 330d at this point to give me that extra punch im looking for... and being a diesel i would not be paying a whole lot extra on fuel if i drive it hard. i dunno... im so confused older and faster or newer and more reliable. thats the question for me. im also very scared of 140000 plus kilos... clutch.. gearbox etc. a lot to think about

 

[Chavoos]

Hi

I drive an 06 323i MSport.
Mine is accident free :thumbs: with new RFTs
Great cars!
I have 158000km with no probs. These six cylinder BMWs are awesome.
Compared to a 2.0l Ford , the bmw shouldn't feel sluggish at all !!!!

I may consider selling at quite a bit lower than the 05. PM me if you are interested.

 

[pimpassdaddy]

Have a the 323i checked out buddy... I reckon you should go for that.

It really sounds sweet. I see very little going wrong from Oct (when the MP ended), to now...

Go for it!

 

[Sankekur]

thanks for all the advice guys... its very much appreciated. i must admit im very much considering the e46 330d at this point to give me that extra punch im looking for... and being a diesel i would not be paying a whole lot extra on fuel if i drive it hard. i dunno... im so confused older and faster or newer and more reliable. thats the question for me. im also very scared of 140000 plus kilos... clutch.. gearbox etc. a lot to think about

Well there is no reason why an older e46 330d will be unreliable, if you have it checked out properly before buying it and look after it, it will give you many happy miles.

 

[Nokoff]

thanks for all the advice guys... its very much appreciated. i must admit im very much considering the e46 330d at this point to give me that extra punch im looking for... and being a diesel i would not be paying a whole lot extra on fuel if i drive it hard. i dunno... im so confused older and faster or newer and more reliable. thats the question for me. im also very scared of 140000 plus kilos... clutch.. gearbox etc. a lot to think about

Well there is no reason why an older e46 330d will be unreliable, if you have it checked out properly before buying it and look after it, it will give you many happy miles.

I hear you. Who could I get to check out any high mileage 330d I might like? Mechanically that is. I know AA is useless and BMW charge like over 2000 for a quality check.