I was looking to replace my 2002 boxster - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

stephen wilson · 01-10-2013, 05:46 AM

It's funny you mention it Mike, when I test drove a M3 vs. the Boxster, I thought it had a musclecar feel vs. a sports car. Granted, it handles much better than a "factory" 60's musclecar.

Ckrikos · 01-10-2013, 06:48 AM

I realize they have expanded the warranty period, but it just appears too risky to jump into a used 335xi. The price is not as low as the Boxster where you can argue that its not a big gamble. At $25-30K I need a reliable car, Im not interested in jumping into another timebomb. My Boxster has been extremely reliable as I am sure many 335's are, for the money its just not worth taking the risk. I am considering a 328, but dont think its going to be sporty enough to replace my Boxter. I was looking for an XI with SMG and navigation and its not easy to find. Specifically SMG, I would buy a manual but want my wife to be able to drive it too. I considered keeping both, but I drive so infrequently (once a week and/or during the weekends) thats it wouldnt be a financially sound decision. Most weekends I drive my wife's Touareg as I cart the children around. The 335/328 was my attempt at a fun car that can also cart the children around.

What do you guys think about the 328?

Parrot356 · 01-10-2013, 12:08 PM

[QUOTE=Ckrikos;323216] I am considering a 328, but dont think its going to be sporty enough to replace my Boxter. I was looking for an XI with SMG and navigation and its not easy to find. Specifically SMG, I would buy a manual but want my wife to be able to drive it too.

FYI, you won't fine a 328 or 335ix with SMG. They are only offered with steptronic or a 6MT. To get the SMG tranny you have to get to a 335is or an M3... And you will not find either the 'is' or the M3 in the mid-20's price range...

I understand what you are saying about being a 'time bomb' etc and if you are not comfortable then it is not worth it. Kind of like buying a Boxster and always thinking the IMS is going to go. It will just haunt you if you let it. But if you do reconsider and drive a 335 look for a 2009 or newer. Lots of updates in '09 and it is a different car than the '07's and '08's.

Rlwalker799 · 01-10-2013, 12:18 PM

On the 3 series bimmer issue, I have a 328 xi for inclement weather and the 2001 s boxster as my
Preferred personal ride when the roads are clear . I haven't had a stitch of trouble with the BMW in 30000 mi so far . It's an able, comfortable and still fun to drive car but in a completely different category of ride. I'm planning on doing the " ultimate ims fix" when it becomes feasible here in nh.

Ckrikos · 01-10-2013, 04:06 PM

I didn't realize there was a difference between the paddle shifters and the term smg. I'll have to read about that some more.

doragman · 01-12-2013, 08:03 AM

I had a problem with my wife's car a few years ago when she was out of town and ended up riding with the tow truck driver ....along the way I asked him what car did he tow the most ...he did not hesitate -- BMW

BYprodriver · 01-12-2013, 09:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by doragman

I had a problem with my wife's car a few years ago when she was out of town and ended up riding with the tow truck driver ....along the way I asked him what car did he tow the most ...he did not hesitate -- BMW

I wouldn't think there would be enough BMW in Baton Rouge to make that possible.

BYprodriver · 01-12-2013, 09:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ckrikos

I didn't realize there was a difference between the paddle shifters and the term smg. I'll have to read about that some more.

SMG in a 2004 M3 is without doubt the worst trans I have ever driven. BMW seems to lessen throttle response & steering feel a little more every year. I recently drove a 2002 5 series. It was so nice. Comfortable, fit me well & took directions well. We got along from the start.