Newbie seeking guidance.

[JouSussieSeBoks]

Hello all the BMW Fanatics out there.

Im new to the site and extemely exited to have joined. I was hoping to get some guidance with regard to joining the BMW family. I am 24 years of age and currently drive an 06 kia picanto, which is nearing the end after driving her for just over 6 years (my first car). I have recenly decided that I would love to look at the 2011 320i e90, or 320d -stil alot of deciding to do- but not sure what the best option would be (maintenance and running cost wise), as I am still early im my career.

Any help would be really appreciated and just wat to say that so far this site and the peaople on it seem really nice.

Regards.

 

[hozer]

Hello all the BMW Fanatics out there.

Im new to the site and extemely exited to have joined. I was hoping to get some guidance with regard to joining the BMW family. I am 24 years of age and currently drive an 06 kia picanto, which is nearing the end after driving her for just over 6 years (my first car). I have recenly decided that I would love to look at the 2011 320i e90, or 320d -stil alot of deciding to do- but not sure what the best option would be (maintenance and running cost wise), as I am still early im my career.

Any help would be really appreciated and just wat to say that so far this site and the peaople on it seem really nice.

Regards.

Howzit man

I see you have made it into the conversation.

Not sure if you read the replies on my post but I had a pretty similar question and the guys really answered it well. In my opinion. Begin with your budget. See how far you can go. Not going to pry into your finances but it's a good thing that always gets raised. Make sure you can afford the monthly payments, and also can't hurt to get a few quotes for common things that have issues. Try to make sure that if that were to happen, you won't be forced to go to John doe working out of a container on the corner of rock and hard place to fix your car. Propper maintenance is key on these beasts. Treat it well and it won't kill you.

If you are certain it's the best option for you go and drive a 320i. Start there, reason being the next one you need to drive is the 320d, and let me tell you, you will struggle to get it out of your head once you get out. I see we are the same age. And we both got out/ trying to get out of starter door wedges. I'm loving the upgrade and seriously feels like I've been walking all these years.

Anyways. That's my opinion.
I'll let the other guys prove me wrong. mgwaiting:

Have fun and good luck

 

[JouSussieSeBoks]

Yeah, thanks again for the direction.

I did go throuth the post briefly and that is one of the things that I would like to research going forward (common problems and maintenance). I am definately doing the homework when it comes to financing and the insurance is also a scary one as I am sure you know, especially because of the age.

I am definately considering the diesel, as I have been told they are more efficient (needs confirmation), but I am sure they come with a different set of maintenance costs.

Appreciate the reply. Will see what all the other fanatics advise on.

 

[SubLoaded]

If these are your options then definitely the diesel.

 

[JouSussieSeBoks]

Thank you Subloaded.

If you dont mind me asking, are there specific reason for the recommendation, just trying to learn :smilebounce:

 

[Riaad]

Thank you Subloaded.

If you dont mind me asking, are there specific reason for the recommendation, just trying to learn :smilebounce:

Welcome to the forum:thumbs:

There is nothing wrong with an e90 320i...however, the 320d is alot more capable in terms of dealing with the cars weight (the 320i is underpowered).

here are some simple comparisons: 320i vs 320d
1. 115kw vs 130/135kw (depending on model - 2011 320d will have 135kw)
2. 200Nm vs 350/380Nm
3. 9.5-12l/100kms vs 6-8.5l/100kms - figures based on combined cycle
4. Much more demand for a 320d, hence they are more expensive...and Msport facelifts can call a premium in the market.
5.the 320i can be reliable but is prone to issues such as valve stem seals - the 320d has rock solid reliability, as long as its serviced regularly.
6. the 320d is regarded as an excellent daily driver.
7.no performance mods for the 320i - the 320d has some decent potential (can definitely give a few gti's a run for their money)

I hope this helps, maybe mention your budget and you will get additional advice, I have a 320i,its not a bad car, just abit lazy on the road.
Also keep in mind that there are some general costs that all e90s incur.

 

[SubLoaded]

Thank you Subloaded.

If you dont mind me asking, are there specific reason for the recommendation, just trying to learn :smilebounce:

Welcome to the forum:thumbs:

There is nothing wrong with an e90 320i...however, the 320d is alot more capable in terms of dealing with the cars weight (the 320i is underpowered).

here are some simple comparisons: 320i vs 320d
1. 115kw vs 130/135kw (depending on model - 2011 320d will have 135kw)
2. 200Nm vs 350/380Nm
3. 9.5-12l/100kms vs 6-8.5l/100kms - figures based on combined cycle
4. Much more demand for a 320d, hence they are more expensive...and Msport facelifts can call a premium in the market.
5.the 320i can be reliable but is prone to issues such as valve stem seals - the 320d has rock solid reliability, as long as its serviced regularly.
6. the 320d is regarded as an excellent daily driver.
7.no performance mods for the 320i - the 320d has some decent potential (can definitely give a few gti's a run for their money)

I hope this helps, maybe mention your budget and you will get additional advice, I have a 320i,its not a bad car, just abit lazy on the road.
Also keep in mind that there are some general costs that all e90s incur.

Essentially the 320d has more kick than the 320i (and is more economical) . But this doesn't mean that the 320i is a write-off. Obviously being a petrol the 320i revs better but it needs a nice open road to be appreciated.

Both cars are good cruisers at the end of the day.

 

[JouSussieSeBoks]

Thanks a lot subloader, will definately keep that in mind.

Thank you as well Riaad, it will be my daily driver and I do little kms overall since the office is 6km away. I have looked at a couple of price ranges so far and yeah the 320d lookes to be around R140000 to R150000 for a decent sale with just over 100000km whereas 320i runs at around R120000. At this point I can afford at around R4000 a month, but will be saving up to put a decent amount on the deposit.

 

[cOlDFuSiOn]

If you are not driving far, then fuel is not an issue I guess but you still want a bit of poke from the car.. I think the 2.0d is good. Perhaps even look at an older E82 120d?

 

[SubLoaded]

Don't make your decision based on how far you work from home. Given your age, chances are you will grow and maybe seek better opportunities? You don't wanna have an upside down financial status with the car if u - let's say - hypothetically change jobs and need to travel more and now need a different (more practical) car for this scenario... Or even if you start travelling for work.

Get the car that suits all types of daily driving. Just my 2cents

 

[Ddoooooon]

The 320D , better consumption, better torque, good reliability , can also change the sound note if not happy with the standard Diesel sound . Just my opinion

 

[FerdiBotha]

If you are not driving far, then fuel is not an issue I guess but you still want a bit of poke from the car.. I think the 2.0d is good. Perhaps even look at an older E82 120d?

The E82 120d is a good option, but is quite a bit more expensive than the 320d. It looks cool to some, but with prices comparable to that of a E90 330d it just doesn’t make sense..

 

[JouSussieSeBoks]

Thank you all so much for the guidance. You guys are really helping a lot. The diesel does seem to be right choice so far and I will definately start looking that direction. I am looking more for a 3 series, want go for the bigger car. A personal preference, as it would make you feel that you reached a goal (sounds silly I know).

 

[AndreX]

Hey Bud

i bought my E90 320d in June last year and i love this car to bits

i agree the 320i is not a write off its still a awesome car

IMHO if you plan on keeping a car till it falls apart i would say the 320d for the following reasons

1. RK MOTION!!!!!!!!!!! need i say more :smilebounce:
2. its doesn't cost much to get extra power if you feel the need for something a bit stronger
3. Fuel economy even after being modded is still great. Mine is averaging 8.0 urban use
4. Much better daily drive if you do a lot of town driving:fencelook:

Cons.
1. As all BMW's go its costly to fix
2. Check damper pulley they usually go around 150k km's
3. Tyre's do not last if you have a heavy foot
4. Shorter service intervals (But very easy to DIY)

My only regret that i have is i wanted a E60 530d but all and all im as happy as can be

if you want to know anything or have any concerns feel free to PM me:thumbs:

 

[SonGoKu619]

The 320d has a rock solid motor and won't leave you in the lurch when climbing uphill or if the need for overtaking on the longer journeys arises. A moderately heavy chassis on a 2.0L non-turbo engine is always a bit sluggish. It's an easy decision as those above have stated. Good luck finding one there are many out there!

 

[Diesellover]

Howzit Bud

I would say go with the 320d. I'v had 3 over the last 6 years as daily drivers, and these cars do not disappoint. Besides the positives already mentioned, it's an extremely fun car. The vehicle is extremely nippy standard and can always be worked. Furthermore, the reliability is second to none, other than the usual wear and tear issues.

When looking for one make sure it has a full service history, and if you do eventually find one, try and do regular services. Especially the oil services, try and do it after every 10 000 kilometers.

Good luck bud

 

[Twinz]

As others have said...between your two options Diesel all the way.:thumbs:

 

[Shuaib1]

Welcome :thumbs: +1 on the diesel

 

[zakes27]

Hi, I am turning 25 next week and bought my first BMW when i was 24 as well.
Test drove a few cars and spoke to a few BMW mechanics. One point that stood out for me was that 4 cylinder BMWs can be bought easily where as people hardly sell there 6 cylinder.

Tested the 320i, 320d and 325i, couldn't find a 330i and couldn't afford anything above those models. Based on my research repairs and maintenance are roughly the same for the 320i and 325i.

I would trust a 6 cylinder BMW over a 4 cylinder ( just my opinion and i believe they are the kings at 6 cylinders).

I bought a e msport 325i, good daily, enough power for over taking and quite easily reaches 200km/h if u feel for some speed.

Good luck with your Buy

 

[FerdiBotha]

Hi, I am turning 25 next week and bought my first BMW when i was 24 as well.
Test drove a few cars and spoke to a few BMW mechanics. One point that stood out for me was that 4 cylinder BMWs can be bought easily where as people hardly sell there 6 cylinder.

Tested the 320i, 320d and 325i, couldn't find a 330i and couldn't afford anything above those models. Based on my research repairs and maintenance are roughly the same for the 320i and 325i.

I would trust a 6 cylinder BMW over a 4 cylinder ( just my opinion and i believe they are the kings at 6 cylinders).

I bought a e msport 325i, good daily, enough power for over taking and quite easily reaches 200km/h if u feel for some speed.

Good luck with your Buy

The OP wants a fuel efficient car though, so I don’t think the 325i will be a good choice. The 325i has many things going for it, but fuel efficiency isn’t one of them:thumbs: