New to forum, asking for buying advice for E46

[Kirk]

Hi there, as the subject said, I'm new here, I'm looking at buying my first BM but still unsure about what to look for. I have a bit of a thing for the E46 shape, also the E39. Might have my 320i by the end of the week so if im making a mistake please someone stop me now!

 

[ChefDJ]

STOP NOW!!!


Get an E39 :rollsmile::rollsmile::rollsmile:

 

[VictorMike]

STOP NOW!!!
Get an E39

:withStu:

 

[Kirk]

do they give problems?

 

[AdiS]

Can you tell us more about the car. Year model, what gearbox, mileage, what do yo know about the service history.

The 6 cylinder engines are very reliable as long as the oil is changed regularly and they are not allowed to over heat. The cooling system on E46 is a bit of a weak point and generally be replaced as a preventative measure.

Suspension bushings and other wear and tear is all fairly standard though..

 

[Kirk]

yea, 2003 320i f/l, 200k km's, fsh, auto, white, its nice to look at! but then again anything is nice when you currently drive a fiat...hope noone else heard that....

 

[ChefDJ]

do they give problems?

No :fencelook:

 

[AdiS]

yea, 2003 320i f/l, 200k km's, fsh, auto, white, its nice to look at! but then again anything is nice when you currently drive a fiat...hope noone else heard that....

Well service history is critical.

The autobox is a risk point - you can be certain it will break, and that will cost R20-25k for either a recon, replacement or manual conversion. Most of us recommend buying a manual E46 because of this risk, and because auto's are just heavier on fuel, and slower.

I would budget on a cooling system replacement at that mileage if it has not been done (water pump, expansion tank, thermostat, pipes).

What is the price?

 

[Kirk]

R70k, I'm starting to think i should look for just a little longer!

 

[ecKARd]

R70k, I'm starting to think i should look for just a little longer!

For R70K you can buy my 330i. Although it's a pre facelift it has a FSH with less miles (176000) and it's a manual. I have also already replaced the expansion tank and two pipes. PM me if you might be interested.

 

[AdiS]

R70k, I'm starting to think i should look for just a little longer!

I have seen manual 330i's change hands for R70k.. and it will be tons better to drive, with the same fuel consumption and maintenance costs.

 

[Blert]

I Have a 2002 330I Facelift i want 60k

http://www.bmwfanatics.co.za/showthread.php?tid=64502

car runs better then my 330d at this point.

 

[spawn616]

id have a manual 330 over an auto 320 anyday

but i have an e39 so i don't need either