2000 Porsche Boxster vs. 2001 BMW 330Ci

[Samson]

The flip side to the saving money argument is that you're only young and in college once, so enjoy it while you can. A good compromise would be to spend a bit less on your car and stick the remainder in whatever one of these financial advocates would recommend. If nothing else, put it in a high-interest savings account so you can still easily tap into it if needed.

I don't know your budget, but I'd guess low teens based on the cars you've mentioned. Stick a few grand away and for under $10k, you can probably find a higher mileage S2000 or one hell of a nice '02-'03 Miata.

If you want a sedan, there are good options that aren't an '01 330i, but still fun and relatively new sport sedans for under $10k. IS300, G35, maybe an Audi A4, 328/323i, something like that.

[wake&moto]

I was a prior e46 M3 owner and they are solid cars IF MAINTAINED PROPERLY however:

1) The automatic/tiptronic trannys WILL fail between 100-120k miles. Reverse is the first to go and then eventually you are looking at a $4,000 repair bill at minimum.

2) Lower control arms and front end bushings as well as tie rod and steering components also fail around 120-150k which will run about $1,500.

3) Oil changes are every 15k but i suggest doin them around 9-10k and will run you $180 if done at BMW dealerships. Brake jobs will set you back around $1,000 as well.

4) I also replaced an AC motor resistor which is a common failure and a DIY type fix at around $200 and seems to be common.

5) If the radiator coolant expansion tank has not busted on a used e46 it will lol and that will set you back about $800 + a tow to the BMW stealership.

Other than the above mentioned problems the BMW is a stellar car when maintained and is a blast to drive.