BMW or MINI

What should I, or would you get

  • MCS NEW $25,000 163hp

    Votes: 3 15.0%
  • 2000 BMW 323ci $19,000 170hp

    Votes: 2 10.0%
  • 2000 BMW 328ci $21,000 193hp

    Votes: 15 75.0%

  • Total voters
    20
  • Poll closed .

formanbob

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Columbus, Ohio
#1
Some of us like MINI’s because of their handling, their looks, their quality, their power, or there fun factor.

Now everyone has there own level of excitement, their own bar then feel that their car should meet.

I have wanted a new care for a while, I used to install competition stereos and on my last car I went a bit overboard and spent way more then what the car was worth. When I saw the MINI I thought with the BMW quality the Infamous MINI handling = wow on the fun scale. So I went to the Detroit auto show to check them out, (with some music of my own) I was impressed with the HK system. It looked like a system I could force my self not to modify. So I put my name on the list at my Local MINI dealer. I then found out that the HK system would not be available for a bit so I waited. Then when it was available I got married to the woman of my dreams and my priorities changed, we decide to pay off all my debt. So now that is gone and it is time to get a car.

Well after reading many studies on living under your means and buying responsibly I have come to the realization that if you buy used you can get a lot more fore your money. The MINI the way I want it is priced out at $25,000 that to me is not bad for the ride, the fun the power.

BUT..

By the suggestion of my gut and a friend I decided to TEST a BMW 3 series.
So Saturday I went around looking for a 3 series with a standard transition to test. The first place I stopped at seamed like the last place to find a BWM. So I found a 2000 323ci black, in great condition. Now with 170 hp to the rear wheels, I had fun so much fun the guy that went with us was in love with BMW’s when we got back to the dealership, in fact my wife had I big old smile and was giddy like a schoolgirl on the way to other BMW dealerships. ..

So what should I do? Well I know that is up to me but I ask this of you would do you think.


I looked and I have these options and one thing that does not bother me is warranty.

NEW MCS $25,000 163hp
2000 BMW 323ci $19,000 170hp 22k-60k miles give or take
2000 BMW 328ci $21,000 193hp 22k-60k miles give or take


Your opinion is wanted.

Thanks

Formanbob
 
Last edited:
Messages
195
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Location
N. Jersey
#2
formanbob said:
Some of us like MINI’s because of their handling, their looks, their quality, their power, or there fun factor.

Now everyone has there own level of excitement, their own bar then feel that their car should meet.

I have wanted a new care for a while, I used to install competition stereos and on my last car I went a bit overboard and spent way more then what the car was worth. When I saw the MINI I thought with the BMW quality the Infamous MINI handling = wow on the fun scale. So I went to the Detroit auto show to check them out, (with some music of my own) I was impressed with the HK system. It looked like a system I could force my self not to modify. So I put my name on the list at my Local MINI dealer. I then found out that the HK system would not be available for a bit so I waited. Then when it was available I got married to the woman of my dreams and my priorities changed, we decide to pay off all my debt. So now that is gone and it is time to get a car.

Well after reading many studies on living under your means and buying responsibly I have come to the realization that if you buy used you can get a lot more fore your money. The MINI the way I want it is priced out at $25,000 that to me is not bad for the ride, the fun the power.

BUT..

By the suggestion of my gut and a friend I decided to TEST a BMW 3 series.
So Saturday I went around looking for a 3 series with a standard transition to test. The first place I stopped at seamed like the last place to find a BWM. So I found a 2000 323ci black, in great condition. Now with 170 hp to the rear wheels, I had fun so much fun the guy that went with us was in love with BMW’s when we got back to the dealership, in fact my wife had I big old smile and was giddy like a schoolgirl on the way to other BMW dealerships. ..

So what should I do? Well I know that is up to me but I ask this of you would do you think.


I looked and I have these options and one thing that does not bother me is warranty.

NEW MCS $25,000 163hp
2000 BMW 323ci $19,000 170hp
2000 BMW 328ci $21,000 193hp


Your opinion is wanted.

Thanks

Formanbob
I really couldn't see myself driving one of those on a daily basis. Fun car but the ride quality is a little harsh for daily driving. That's just my .02 I wouldn't mind having one as a second car though. They are loads of fine to drive. I had a 2000 323Ci and loved it !!!!!!
 

formanbob

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Columbus, Ohio
#3
Re: Re: BMW or MINI

RuflessPhilly said:
I really couldn't see myself driving one of those on a daily basis. Fun car but the ride quality is a little harsh for daily driving. That's just my .02 I wouldn't mind having one as a second car though. They are loads of fine to drive. I had a 2000 323Ci and loved it !!!!!!
So you had a 323ci?
How did you like it?


what did you vote for ,,,


do you wish you had the 328ci or was the 323ci fine for you,,,
 
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Location
N. Jersey
#4
Re: Re: Re: BMW or MINI

formanbob said:
So you had a 323ci?
How did you like it?


what did you vote for ,,,


do you wish you had the 328ci or was the 323ci fine for you,,,
I loved it. I didn't miss the extra power because I had a stick shift.
 

Big Daddy

Senior Member
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#9
You have to weigh in all the facts: the Mini has a new warranty and the BMW's you list will run out soon. However in the future, if you plan to keep the car the Mini is small should your family grow, and owning a roadster I know that long trips can tough in small cars with harsh rides (although I am not complaining..I love driving my roadster, but long trips in my 750iL...well that is heaven) Also if you buy the BMW's listed you will save enough to buy an extended warranty, or bank the money for future mods or troubles? Until I had a decent sized family car, I would hold off on a small sporty car, besides I believe used Minis are going to start showing up at some decent prices soon.
 

formanbob

New Member
Messages
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Location
Columbus, Ohio
#10
Looks like BMW is the winner, now with one can I get the most bang for my buck,,,

Is it one harder than the other to Force Induction, anything that can sway me one way or another is helpful.

Thanks
 
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Location
Ohio
#11
Right now I would say 328Ci but I have never driven a Mini. I have heard about it and always wanted to drive one but never gotten a chance, that opinion may change if/when I drive one.
 
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Location
Moonshine Capital of the World
#15
I have a 2000 323i and love it. A 5 speed 323 would be plenty fast for normal spirited driving (not a track beast or anything). Dang, I wish I had a 5 speed now, this is my first car and the transmission is one thing I just didn't really consider before I got the car. [?|] I like to drive my friend's 6 speed accord coupe. Maybe I'll trade my car in for a 5 speed in a few years. Well...sorry, I kinda got off topic, but I would take the 328 simply for the extra power. [thumb]
 


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