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(US market shopper) Hello all. Relatively new to the bimmer world. I am looking to buy a 2 door coupe with a manual transmission, that is a lighter chassis (in comparison to the modern generations) that will be used as a daily and taken occasionally to auto-cross days. I want something that already has depreciated a bit, hence why I think the e82 is a good fit. I originally started shopping for the new gr86/BRZ since I am keen on getting a lightweight 6mt coupe. But, as I am someone in their mid twenties I am always looking for the best value to save me money I figure for the price of spending ~33k for a new car that will depreciate instantly, I could get a well maintained 135i between 15-25k and have the extra money saved up for future maintenance and the parts that will eventually break sooner than later. Plus, I would be getting a more powerful engine and a car that is a bit more unique in my opinion (I know the 1 series isn’t everyone’s taste but I like it and think it will continue to age well)
I live in a city, so I wont be driving it every day and if it breaks down I have other methods of transportation. I also live around some decent windy roads, so I want a car that is engaging drive. I have the ability to do basic maintenance myself, but I have a family friend with a shop that specializes in older bmw’s so I would rely on him for the big stuff.
Finally, I feel that the e82 is a nice middle ground between the older classic models that are more mechanical feeling (since it has hydraulic steering) and the newer ones that are heavy and not as engaging. The e82 has just enough modern tech to fit my needs. I have looked at some of the newer 235i and the m240i but the manuals aren’t nearly as common, especially for the 240. They are also just heavier and notably more expensive. Is this extra cost worth it for long term reliability? I figure if it’s already out of warranty, I may as well go for the older generation.
Back seats are a must, so the Z series is not being considered. Is it worth looking at older e46 330 models?
Am I missing anything? I’d love any insight given, thanks a million
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