[dj bally]

im considering both vehicles because they fall in my budget of around $18,000-$22,000 obviously used, but ive been reading a bit about the mercedes apparently has problems with the air ride suspension especially in the 2000-2002 years. anyone own one and have any info on repairs or issues they have had? the bmw i havnt found too much info about the only reason im considering it is because a 2004 s class will probably fall out of my budget and i havnt seen anything bad about the older 745 so im also wondering if u guys can give me any insight on both vehicles. and what car would u consider for around that price, no pussy ass rides like a 4 banger honda civic or rsx or something i want something nice and luxury.

[donjalapeno]

if your buying a german luxury car, be ready for heavy ass repair costs, not saying they have problems but when they do get problems there expensive, especially all the sensors and shit. I would get a 745I tho, fast and luxury under one roof....the s class is the most boring car to drive, its like its on rails.

[Solo_D33A]

S500, get 03+ it's got updated interior, newer command system(04 changed again, if possible, get 04), updated front and rear, etc. You can choose with long wheel base, spec would says S500v if it is (if you don't care about lwb, you car get S430 too...).

All W220 have ABC suspension iirc, yes, they do go expensively. Each strut goes about 1k if you order it online, but still need labor and Mercedes' program for it to flush the system. another thing in the suspension that's easy to fail is the valve, it goes about 1k again.

BTW, if ABC's turned on, there will be minimal body roll, yet ride quality's still basically the same. :p

couldn't speak about the bimmer, haven't ever looked into it... but I like pre 02 7s more...

[gilly]

the fit is nice and luxurious. :troll:

[Mugen EvOlutioN]

i drove both the S63 AMG vs 750LI


tho not exactly the model you are asking but here is my two cents


S interior uses more refined material, its smooth and very comfortable. A lot of fancy gadgets. You sit in the rear and it makes you feel like a king. Definitely one of a kind luxury car, hands down.


750Li the car feels more like its part of you, more in control. I much prefer the throttle response as well as the steering, feels more precise. interior both are top notch but i prefer the S as mentioned, the new body one (the one i drove) has suede head liners, now thats baller. THe 7 did not


My biggest downfall with 7 was the rear seat, it was NOT comfy after i sat in the S. S is like one big comfy sofa, even if you weigh 300 pounds + it'd still feel comfy to you.

the 7 on the other hand feels more secure, it wraps around your ass. For me thats not what im looking for in a luxury sedan, comfort should be the no.1 concern. Therefore i would prefer S in terms of overall presentation if i were to choose between the two. S is definitely the best luxury sedan under $200g


i saw a 05 745li for $35g and i was tempted

but be prepared that when mainteance comes, prepare each session be thousands ++++ not hundreds+ This aint no honda

it will definitely costs an arm and a leg to keep, otherwise awsome ride

$20g budget

TL, TSX, G35, maxima, altima, 3 series, C class used...those would be the common ones


S/7 terriotory you really need to have a deep pocket to pay to play, used or not

[freakshow]

People always seem to forget that while you might be able to buy a 150K car for 35K, you're still paying the maintenance for a 150K car.

[Groot]

get a acura RL. i think 05's are about 20-25k

[oldsnail]

my friend has a benz S class.. forgot the model..
i dont like the doors.

there was a time where i attempted to closed the door, but it was in a non secure state.. so i tried to open the door :one hand on handle and one hand by the edge of the door. handle was locked.. and the door started automatically shutting it self to a secure state while my hands are still on the edge of the door.

yup, it hurts.

[dhari]

but be prepared that when mainteance comes, prepare each session be thousands ++++ not hundreds+ This aint no honda

it will definitely costs an arm and a leg to keep, otherwise awsome ride

$20g budget

TL, TSX, G35, maxima, altima, 3 series, C class used...those would be the common ones


S/7 terriotory you really need to have a deep pocket to pay to play, used or not


^100% agree.

if ur looking for a cheap luxury car you may not like these cars. lots of money will go into those rides, especially if you are not covered by warranty.
seems like u want a baller car with out having to pay the baller bills.
you mite end up hating these cars after a few months of maintenance/repairs/gas bills.
just my 2 cents sir!

[asian_XL]

apparently this guy has done some research on the maintenance, so why need to repeat and repeat about the costing. It's like dating a fat chick and you only want to feed her kids meal.

my parents owned the ugly 735Li for 4 years in Asia and put 50,000km on it. They only paid for the basic maintenance and inspection. Yes, it's relatively more expensive than 3 series, a muffler on the dealer service catalog is like 2g, changing wiper is 3x more expensive than buying it at Canadian tires. The fact is it is supposed to rip off the original owner, there are many many used parts out there.

[donjalapeno]

^ why the fuck would someone buy a luxury car and then cheap out and buy used parts for it.....just dont buy it in the first place, used = 50%+ of the parts life gone. He replaces something with a used part and a month later it breaks again and again and again. My neighbour has a X5 and he cheaped out on a O2 sensor and got a used one and since may he he went through two and finally he bought a new one. If your gonna get a bmw or benz get certified one its worth the extra dough.

[asian_XL]

and he's buying an used luxury car in the first place? you should tell him to buy a brand new car instead.

[donjalapeno]

buying a used car and used part is different.....thats why i suggested to buy a certified a little more expensive but peace of mind when it comes to repairs and maintaince. If hes gonna buy a bmw or benz from a shady little used car dealership its not a good idea and he should just get a mid sized sedan.

[1exotic]

im considering both vehicles because they fall in my budget of around $18,000-$22,000 obviously used, but ive been reading a bit about the mercedes apparently has problems with the air ride suspension especially in the 2000-2002 years. anyone own one and have any info on repairs or issues they have had? the bmw i havnt found too much info about the only reason im considering it is because a 2004 s class will probably fall out of my budget and i havnt seen anything bad about the older 745 so im also wondering if u guys can give me any insight on both vehicles. and what car would u consider for around that price, no pussy ass rides like a 4 banger honda civic or rsx or something i want something nice and luxury.

well said :thumbsup:


I'd go with the 745i, they look great.

[ilvtofu]

LOL mercedes still has air ride problems to this day, just saw a new gl550 today in kerrisdale limped to one side. reminds me of a roadtrip to portland last year in a gl320 came back like that too...

Yeah the 7 looks way better IMO, S class looks a lot older. Get the li though the standard wheelbase isn't that appealing (just to me)

I'm guessing you didn't consider the A8, my favourite one, more subtle & more class, but judging by your username I doubt that's what you're looking for. Quattro isn't a bad thing to have either. Not as many to choose from in the used car market though.

[ericthehalfbee]

im considering both vehicles because they fall in my budget of around $18,000-$22,000 obviously used, but ive been reading a bit about the mercedes apparently has problems with the air ride suspension especially in the 2000-2002 years. anyone own one and have any info on repairs or issues they have had? the bmw i havnt found too much info about the only reason im considering it is because a 2004 s class will probably fall out of my budget and i havnt seen anything bad about the older 745 so im also wondering if u guys can give me any insight on both vehicles. and what car would u consider for around that price, no pussy ass rides like a 4 banger honda civic or rsx or something i want something nice and luxury.
Neither. I see people like you all the time at work. Let's see, I can buy a brand new economy car for $20K or a used luxury car for the same $20K. Ooooohhh, I'll be ballin' in my S Class or 7 Series.

Then you ask about which car will have fewer problems, obviously because you really only have the monthly budget for your car payment, insurance and gas. Since you have no money left for repairs you want to buy the luxury car that's the most reliable. Even if you don't suffer any breakdowns, regular maintenance is still much more expensive than a normal car.

But hey, don't listen to anyone on here telling you about how expensive it is to keep one of these cars on the road. Just don't come to me (like countless others have in the past) trying to det a deal on repairs for your car. "Are you sure you can't get that part from the aftermarket? The dealer part is sooo expensive." "Why are my brakes worn out already?" "A tune-up cost HOW much?" "Can't you find me some used tires?" "Isn't there any cheaper way to get my car to pass Aircare?" and on and on

[donjalapeno]

^ my point exacly, well said

[Mugen EvOlutioN]

what can i say, $20g baller in surrey


Living the american dream


:thumbsup:


$20g 7 > $20g civic

[AVS_Racing]

http://www.revscene.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=1786&stc=1&d=1284184202

http://www.revscene.net/forums/fs-mercedes-benz-t624524.html

problem solved

has D's on it already:troll:

[Manic!]

http://www.revscene.net/forums/fs-mercedes-benz-t624524.html

problem solved

has D's on it already:troll:

Recent work that has already been done includes: 2 new vacuum pumps, Heater speed control regulator, battery, alternator, front shocks, ignition switch, instrument cluster, the transmission was also rebuilt by the previous owner.

[donjalapeno]

^ so basically its ready to go eh?

[van_driver]

You should check out LS430s. I've had good experience with them and they have the toyota reliability and not too bad on maintenance if you have a good mechanic.

[Death2Theft]

How much extra for a curry scented interior?

[Mugen EvOlutioN]

more than u can afford pal

:troll:

[Jgresch]

Instead of attempting a baller on a budget sort of thing, why don't you use the 20 gs toward a brand new car, like a Civic or Toyota of some kind. Sure you won't be picking up as many fly honeys as your homeboys in there pre-owned and probably financed bimmers and benzes, but you won't waste money on premium/extra gas, stupid repair/maintenance costs. And 5 years down the road it will be much easier to sell a Honda or Toyota, and since your the only owner you can make sure to keep it up to date service wise and keep all the records to make selling easier.

Then use the 10 grand you make selling it, as a down payment on a brand new baller car ;)

And don't forget, since you live in surrey, whatever car you pick make sure to throw some d's on that bitch

[hk20000]

^ check the op's opening thread.... no 4 banger slow ass crap apparently. And that's what 20g gets you brand new.

[WHEYsted]

I don't know what you guys are saying, but my uncle says the 745 drives like shit and the i-drive sucks balls since it is hard to navigate. Hence why he got rid of it after 1 year. But it's a good car if you want to be a 20g baller. Here is one with fairly low miles, loaded and a good price. http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/nvn/ctd/1942231029.html

[donjalapeno]

^ either your uncle is on crack or hes prolly use to driving quattroportes and flying spurs....and i doubt the second statement is true.

[jpark]

^it's true... being the 1st generation i-drive created in 2001 for the 7 series the functions are aging, distracting and retardedly confusing.. heard many complaints and a pointless dictionary thick owners manual just explaining the function of the i-drive system.. theres a reason why there were too many complaints about the system and how bmw decided to freshly update the i-drive in 2008 to solve all the complaints

[WHEYsted]

^ either your uncle is on crack or hes prolly use to driving quattroportes and flying spurs....and i doubt the second statement is true.
Get your shit right nigga, like what jpark said, and my second statement is the realist ever.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[freakshow]

apparently this guy has done some research on the maintenance, so why need to repeat and repeat about the costing. It's like dating a fat chick and you only want to feed her kids meal.

my parents owned the ugly 735Li for 4 years in Asia and put 50,000km on it. They only paid for the basic maintenance and inspection. Yes, it's relatively more expensive than 3 series, a muffler on the dealer service catalog is like 2g, changing wiper is 3x more expensive than buying it at Canadian tires. The fact is it is supposed to rip off the original owner, there are many many used parts out there.I don't know which first post you read, but his original post clearly asks for repair info regarding both cars since he had questions about the benz, and couldn't dig up much on the bmw.

Having owned both a newer economy car (01 civic in 2002), and an old luxury car (02 M5 in 2010), I can tell you, without a doubt that the M5 costs way, way more to upkeep. Not only are parts more expensive, but since it's 8 years old, more of those more expensive parts need replacing.

OP, I hope you have a few bucks saved for the increase maintenance costs and insurance. The worst is when you have a 'baller' roll up in his 745, but refuses to go to White Spot without a coupon.

[flagella]

i just find it hilarious this poor fck only has $20g to drop while saying no pussy ass honda civic rides. You must be one of those "car poor" people.

[Jgresch]

^ I bet he doesn't have 20gs, I bet that's his parents budget... I have had a few "ballers" come in with their parents... Checking out g37's, bimmers etc... They're dressed all nice acting all gangsta with rich mommy and daddy... then I sit them down to talk about financing and they have garbage credit, zero money to put down and need a co-signer themselves.....

[Mr.C]

Just out of curiosity, how much would the yearly maintenance one of these be? For reference, maintenance of a Quattroporte (sorry, only luxury car I'd even consider) are on average about $1.5k per year if done at a dealership, or so I've found out by calling up the dealership here/research. For normal, non-track driving. Safe to assume that a BMW/Merc would be lower? Just curious, really.

And, if you want to listen to a noob, I would likely buy none of those. Neither the BMW because of the shitty iDrive, nor the Mercedes because it was DaimlerChrysler back then, and we all know what that meant for reliability of Mercedes.

Nevertheless, if I'd have to pick, I'd pick the BMW, because the styling is better and I'd rather deal with a complicated system that I can read a manual to figure it out than spending more time driving loaner cars instead of my car.

My 2 cents.

[!LittleDragon]

People always think of the 7 and S, not often will someone suggest the A8 and nobody has suggested the Phaeton... which is what I would get because nobody knows wtf it is. Or maybe something from Jaguar

[Mr.C]

People always think of the 7 and S, not often will someone suggest the A8 and nobody has suggested the Phaeton... which is what I would get because nobody knows wtf it is. Or maybe something from Jaguar

Funny, I was going to mention for him to get a Phaeton, but the OP doesn't seem to fit the type of Phaeton drivers, i.e., low profile.

Or, if a Jag like you said, one of these:

http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/rds/cto/1921522812.html

Thing with the Phaeton is that it's SUPER rare. You rarely see them for sale. The owners I've spoken to love it, though.

[sexyaccord]

maybe OP has 30k saved up where 10k is for repairs?

[achiam]

As a reference:

Had a 7 before; the sun roof wouldn't close due to electronic circuitry problems.
Total repair bill at an independent garage came to $2,000 -- all to replace a module and some chip.

[achiam]

Funny, I was going to mention for him to get a Phaeton, but the OP doesn't seem to fit the type of Phaeton drivers, i.e., low profile.

Or, if a Jag like you said, one of these:

http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/rds/cto/1921522812.html

Thing with the Phaeton is that it's SUPER rare. You rarely see them for sale. The owners I've spoken to love it, though.

I also love the Phaeton -- it's essentially a re-badged Bentley Continental.
It DOES have loads of maintenance problems too though. I joined a Phaeton owner's forum and their only complaints were of the maintenance costs. Motors and electronics problems galore! And a new tranny? $8,000 USD!

[achiam]

Just out of curiosity, how much would the yearly maintenance one of these be? For reference, maintenance of a Quattroporte (sorry, only luxury car I'd even consider) are on average about $1.5k per year if done at a dealership, or so I've found out by calling up the dealership here/research. For normal, non-track driving. Safe to assume that a BMW/Merc would be lower? Just curious, really.

And, if you want to listen to a noob, I would likely buy none of those. Neither the BMW because of the shitty iDrive, nor the Mercedes because it was DaimlerChrysler back then, and we all know what that meant for reliability of Mercedes.

Nevertheless, if I'd have to pick, I'd pick the BMW, because the styling is better and I'd rather deal with a complicated system that I can read a manual to figure it out than spending more time driving loaner cars instead of my car.

My 2 cents.

That low cost is when the car is new/in warranty period. Things wear out though -- BMW and Benz electronics seem to fall apart around the time the warranty kicks out, leaving you with the repair bill!

[Mugen EvOlutioN]

maybe OP has 30k saved up where 10k is for repairs?

no that is NOT the case

[jpark]

This guy is probably going to throw some d's on it as well and apply da thug life 'who run it' banner decal on his back window of his baller 20k 7 series
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[Iron Chef]

Cost of ownership for an S class goes like this
1st year A service 350
2nd year B service 600, Brake Flush 200
3rd year A serivice 350
4th year B service 600, Brake flush 200, Air filters 200,Fuel filter 150
5th year A service 350, Spark plugs 500

Brakes last 40000km depending on driving F+R 1500
Tires last about 40000km dpending on driving bout 1000

Common problems
Lower balljoints 500 per side
MAF sensor 600
PSE pump for central locking and closing assist 3000
Airmatic struts 1500 each+ install
Airmatic compressor 2500
Crank sensor 250
Fuel pump's 1500+ install
Valvecover Gasket leaks 500

usually anything that breaks will cost at least 1000 to fix usually but several thousand dollar bills are not uncommon.

[Mugen EvOlutioN]

^

definitely not something an average joe can afford


$20-40g car? easily affordable, maintaining it? not so much

[Tapioca]

Cost of ownership for an S class goes like this
1st year A service 350
2nd year B service 600, Brake Flush 200
3rd year A serivice 350
4th year B service 600, Brake flush 200, Air filters 200,Fuel filter 150
5th year A service 350, Spark plugs 500

Brakes last 40000km depending on driving F+R 1500
Tires last about 40000km dpending on driving bout 1000


Call me ignorant, but wouldn't the above be doable for anyone who can turn a wrench? Even on a new car with complicated electrical systems and the need for special tools?

A set of 8 spark plugs costs 500 bucks? That's ridiculous.

[Mugen EvOlutioN]

on a $200g car? nothing is ridiculous



this aint no motherfucking honda

[tofu1413]

Call me ignorant, but wouldn't the above be doable for anyone who can turn a wrench? Even on a new car with complicated electrical systems and the need for special tools?

A set of 8 spark plugs costs 500 bucks? That's ridiculous.

actually, some of them run on the twin spark design.. so not 8. 16 plugs.


i know for one my dads E320 has 12 spark plugs.

actually, ours has been treating us quite well. a 99' 4matic.

192k kms and still going strong. only thing it need so far was a window regulator ($300ish bucks) and a new cat converter ($1500). it'll need new pads soon.


should think about the E class. they aint bad.

[Solo_D33A]

Call me ignorant, but wouldn't the above be doable for anyone who can turn a wrench? Even on a new car with complicated electrical systems and the need for special tools?

A set of 8 spark plugs costs 500 bucks? That's ridiculous.

You can't, really..., well, some anyways... for things like the suspension, you need STAR diagnostic to flush it.

actually, some of them run on the twin spark design.. so not 8. 16 plugs.


i know for one my dads E320 has 12 spark plugs.

actually, ours has been treating us quite well. a 99' 4matic.

192k kms and still going strong. only thing it need so far was a window regulator ($300ish bucks) and a new cat converter ($1500). it'll need new pads soon.


should think about the E class. they aint bad.

better than my parents.... 24 plugs.....:(

[zvrkan5]

I am very happy with my 7 series. Haven't had any problems with it.

I'm looking to change cars (something sportier) and am selling mine...
If you are worried about parts breaking on it...i have 2 more years of warranty left on mine.

Here is my craigslist post if you are interested.

http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/bnc/cto/1893328942.html

[toyota86]

op, if you want a 7, I would recommend a 01 e38 740i sport. those are sitting at 10k now and is much more diy'er friendly. Parts are a lot cheaper too. IMO, E38 looks and feels much better than the E65. Pre-bangle era goodness. That being said, the newest one is still 10 years old so they all will have some issues.

[Drow]

if your budget is 20k then you shouldnt even be thinking about baller ass cars. Try something mid-range, maybe a used C class or 3 series? Really if your budget is only 20k and u buy a baller ass car then ur kinda like those kids u see in the mall where theyre rocking expensive ass clothes and LV bags but really theyre making minimum wages and spending all their money on clothes.

[wasabisashimi]

bottom line,: Who in the world would buy a used premium vehicle? (S class, 7-series, SL500, ranger rover, or caynne... etc?

Do rich people buy used premium vehicle? besides those who pretends to be baller?

[Mugen EvOlutioN]

poor ppl that wonna act baller buys $30g premium cars
;)

[Mr.C]

bottom line,: Who in the world would buy a used premium vehicle? (S class, 7-series, SL500, ranger rover, or caynne... etc?

Do rich people buy used premium vehicle? besides those who pretends to be baller?

I would buy a used Quattroporte in a heartbeat. However, I can't afford the maintenance at this point of my life. Buying is easy, maintaining, not so much.

Plus, I'd rather have some other guy pay the $100k in depreciation for me :)

Edit: I've done quite a few jobs for people that make a reasonable income, shall we say, and they *all* say they'd rather buy used than new. Some guy that just picked up a QP said that he thinks it's highly unlikely he'd ever spend $80k of maintenance on the car in the 8 years he plans to keep it for; no sense in buying it new, he said. He was replacing a '98 7 Series.

[dj bally]

ok well im definatly not considering the cars i mentioned earlier anymore thanx to you guys lol. im now looking at a 3 series. 2000 323 CI for example

http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/rds/cto/1954804545.html-being stick is a big bonus. needs maintenance but i will get it inspected at a shop or the bcaa inspection thing and based on what they say give the seller my price some like $6500.

http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/van/ctd/1936957433.html-i heard this J.J motors guy is shady anyone know?

http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/pml/cto/1950538180.html-lots of km but looks nice...

so now back to where i started from... what do u think of the cars i posted above and how bad will it be to maintain a 3 series like what im looking. also is 180,000km too much for a 10 year old bmw? i know for honda its really nothing but how does bmw compare? i really want to get a good car but dont want to be stuck with a money pit can u guys check out those links and let me know what you think? the red beemer wont look like as bad as a chix car after i put some red and black rims on it and if i buy a 3 series it has to be standard tranny.

also to everyone claiming im powered by mommy and daddy money im actually buying this on my own and paying for this on my own and maintaining it on my own or else i would have had a car by now that my parents bought me but im taking my time not getting my self screwed over on a fucked up car like i almost did with the S class.

[wasabisashimi]

BMW 323??,,,, seriously, I'd take our shitty transit instead of driving POS bimmer. Save your money...

BMW 323 is a steel box with bimmer logo on it. Not even consider a real car

[freakshow]

I wouldn't go for a 323 either.. rather get an E36 M3.

List out your requirements for a car, and maybe some people can toss you other good suggestions..

[donjalapeno]

170000+km BMW's :facepalm:

just buy a normal effing car

[ruthless]

high km and euro vehicles(most not all) dont mix well...the parts and maintenance are going to be expensive...even on the 3 series bmw

Look into the Acura TL or TSX or something which is reliable and doesnt cost an arm/leg to maintain

GL :thumbsup:

[Solo_D33A]

yes, water pump and thermostat for 06 BMW 3 are 1500 including labour. Mind you, many BMWs don't have a water temp gauge, once it's hot, it's already near over heating, and if you still attempt to drive a bit, ie you're on highway, have to drive to next turn off, you'll risk you engine.

[dj bally]

fml im looking for something nice that isnt a honda civic or acura integra they r just not for me, im open to many options like a 03/04 honda accord, but it has to be standard/manual transmission. i will consider a auto for example s500, 745 or 300c or something but u guys told me thats its a money pit. i wanna stay under 20 g's and seems like a 2004/2005 Acura TL is gonna be the one i end up with since thats like a fall back plan for me and its acura so obviously revscene gonna agree with that:P.

what do u guys think of the older gen lexus is300? or maybe even a bmw x3? i thought bmw, mercedes, lexus these cars r suppose to be good cars. if i have to repair my car every 3 months and it cost me a $400-$500 im ok with taht, oil changes brake changes most of the stuff i can get done so why is everyone saying that its so expensive when these cars are suppose to be reliable?

[tofu1413]

there are a few 05? acura RL's. cant go wrong with those.

if you could find one.

G35..?
IS250...?


07 accord V6 sedan w/ six speed is a nice car.

[AVS_Racing]

i think the main idea is pretty much stay with jdm? tl, rl, tsx, is, gs, ls are pretty good choices under 20k if you want luxury

[donjalapeno]

i dont think 300c has that many problems and there nice too drive.

[PJ]

fml im looking for something nice that isnt a honda civic or acura integra they r just not for me, im open to many options like a 03/04 honda accord, but it has to be standard/manual transmission. i will consider a auto for example s500, 745 or 300c or something but u guys told me thats its a money pit. i wanna stay under 20 g's and seems like a 2004/2005 Acura TL is gonna be the one i end up with since thats like a fall back plan for me and its acura so obviously revscene gonna agree with that:P.

what do u guys think of the older gen lexus is300? or maybe even a bmw x3? i thought bmw, mercedes, lexus these cars r suppose to be good cars. if i have to repair my car every 3 months and it cost me a $400-$500 im ok with taht, oil changes brake changes most of the stuff i can get done so why is everyone saying that its so expensive when these cars are suppose to be reliable?

I'm getting sick of these dollar ballers. My buddy had an X5 for 6 months, I swear spent half that time in the shop. Ended up selling it, 10 grand in the hole, and buying a TSX.

1. Get an Accord then.
2. There's a reason why we say Acuras are good. Not just for shits and giggles.
3. It's not that Revscene doesn't agree with luxuries, just not when you have a $20k budget. (Civic budget ;))
4. They are good cars - if you can afford it.
5. General rule of thumb: Fast, reliable, cheap. Pick two, and the last one is what it won't be.

[Iron Chef]

you can't afford a luxury car..lol

[flagella]

lol we'll be seeing more of those 20k ballers as the time passes.

[!LittleDragon]

The E39 M5's are relatively trouble free and can be had for about $20k

[Iron Chef]

with a car like that you need a 5000 contingency fund just in case.
you can afford to buy the car but not maintain it

[Tapioca]

I wouldn't go for a 323 either.. rather get an E36 M3.

List out your requirements for a car, and maybe some people can toss you other good suggestions..

Or if he wants a bit of luxury, then perhaps a BMW 540i (E39) with a 6-speed? They are tough to find, but I'm sure if he's patient enough, he can find a well-maintained one which will cut down on his costs. Something like this one here: http://vancouver.en.craigslist.ca/pml/ctd/1944853855.html

To the OP: If you want a 3-series, you're better off with a late-model E36 (328is, M3). The engine and transmission are generally solid (as long as they've been maintained), but you will have to spend a bit of money and watch for a few things such as the cooling system, rear shock mounts, sagging interiors, etc. They are fun to drive and are arguably the last 3-series you can maintain in your garage if you ever want to get into that.

[impactX]

I like my Is. It's a reliable lil car.
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[jpark]

i dont think 300c has that many problems and there nice too drive.

300c are surprisingly trouble free, and they rip :rofl:

[Iron Chef]

In terms of luxury and reliability and cost of owner ship, nothing beats a 2000ish lexus

My IS300 has been trouble free for 100km. Only thing in terms of non maintence items that failed is a battery at 6yrs and my balljoints have play at 10yrs.

98-02 GS400 and GS430 and bulletproof too

[dhari]

In terms of luxury and reliability and cost of owner ship, nothing beats a 2000ish lexus

My IS300 has been trouble free for 100km. Only thing in terms of non maintence items that failed is a battery at 6yrs and my balljoints have play at 10yrs.

98-02 GS400 and GS430 and bulletproof too

100km or 100k km?

[mikemhg]

Get a 300, V6 or V8. They are problem free, cheap to fix for the most part, tons of parts available. Good enough luxury, and they rip it. The Hemi is a bit of a hog on gas, but the V6 rips it quite good and is a little more gas friendly.

[midnight_r]

http://www.gm.ca/gm/english/vehicles/buick/lacrosse/feature-Buick-LaCrosse?adv=89754

This is what I would call luxurious “affordable” car. Get it!

[hk20000]

^ still 30K+??