Introductory Luxury Cars

[BlondBomber]

I just found this board, I usually only post on the Weightlifting section. I guess you could say that I live the luxury lifestyle for my demographic (college student at a non-Ivy League or West Coast counterparts). Anyways, my question is whether you guys would recommend a 3 series BMW or a Lexus IS300. I am going to be buying a certified pre-owned 2000-2001, and have narrowed my choices to these two. I am leaning towards the IS300 because it has a better repair record. I can afford the payments and repairs for both, but since I am not a millionaire, extra money can always be spent on other conspiciously consumed items. Anyone have experiences with either?

 

[deltreefitness]

If getting used get the Lexus. If new w/warrantee I would say 3 series.

 

[PitBullFootBall]

I got a 540i my little sisters got a 325xi...awesome cars. My friends bro has a IS300 and I can blow its doors off.

 

[BlondBomber]

What are the repair costs like on your Beamers?

 

[Alright123]

I got 145k on my bimmer all orginal parts,,,never had any repairs,,,just maintenance

 

[BlondBomber]

Thanks for the responses. I am currently debating whether to buy a car now, or start a investment portfolio. I am trying to steer away from the flashier things, but I would love to have a new car. Thinking of developing a long term plan, something very, very new to me.

 

[velvett]

Thanks for the responses. I am currently debating whether to buy a car now, or start a investment portfolio. I am trying to steer away from the flashier things, but I would love to have a new car. Thinking of developing a long term plan, something very, very new to me.

How old are you and what's the condition of your current car?

The Benz C- series is nice too - I just test drove one the other day and I'm a solid Bimmer fan (but I hate the new style). The Lexus GS drives a lot like my BMW (old body style) and it's super smooth and quiet, I wouldn't recommend the ES though.

If you go for a new car drive them all first find out the payments and the insurance before you fall in love with anything.

I'd lease a car if you can write it off somehow.A lot of dealers will include servicing costs with the cost of the lease until you go over your alotted miles.

 

[BlondBomber]

I turn 21 on the 27th of this month. I currently drive a '98 Toyota Camry that is in excellent condition (due partly to recent body work). I did not look at Mercedes because I have heard that they have high repair costs.
I would be buying a used car, $20,000 range. For the IS300 I was looking at that would be like a 2001, for 3 series around the same year. $20,000 would be my goal because I would want about a $500 a month car payment. Insurance will go up, I have one accident and am 21, but I will get the good student discount.
Leasing is not for me. I have no business, and drive hunreds of miles a week (I live in North County SD). Solid idea though.
I am just weighing car vs. much more $ in the future from investments. If I buy an overpriced shirt from AX or Eddie Rodriguez it is a one time indulgence, whereas a car would require a monthly commitment for at least 4 years. I might just wait and see if my Dad buys me car, also. What you think?

 

[deltreefitness]

I got 145k on my bimmer all orginal parts,,,never had any repairs,,,just maintenance

But you bought it new and were the only owner. Right?

 

[Alright123]

no , i was the 3rd owner