Should I buy a 325i or Z4?

[kirkd]

I'm thinking of buying a BMW and cannot decide between 2 models. If any of you guys might be of help that would be wonderful. The two models are:
(1) 2006 325i
(2) 2005 Z4 2.5

I'm thinking the 325i because I can carry more passengers, better for road trips, more comfortable, nice new body style (except for the rear end), cheaper, cup holders (although they are about as sturdy as the CD tray on my computer).

I'm thinking the Z4 because I'm recently dumped and on the prowl , fun when the weather is nice, really sharp looking.

I'm not too concerned about performance which is why I chose the cheaper models with smaller motors. To me, seems like the fast cars impress the guys. Good looking classy cars impress the women. Already had my Corvette this lifetime and now I'd rather cruise with the top down than go 100mph.

I do like reliability. Even with a 4 year warranty, I'd rather not have to hassle with problems.

Thanks for any suggestions!!!
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[Big Daddy]

Tough decision, but your comparing apples and oranges, which I guess you know. You have to weight the pros and cons of each, which in some regards you have done. I have an M roadster, and if I did not already have a four door car I would most likely not have the roadster. If this is to be your primary mode of transportation I think I would get the 325.

 

[bmw046series]

The Z4 is really a secondary car, personally I would't drive it everyday, it makes driving it more special.

 

[peakpros]

I'm thinking of buying a BMW and cannot decide between 2 models. If any of you guys might be of help that would be wonderful. The two models are:
(1) 2006 325i
(2) 2005 Z4 2.5

I'm thinking the 325i because I can carry more passengers, better for road trips, more comfortable, nice new body style (except for the rear end), cheaper, cup holders (although they are about as sturdy as the CD tray on my computer).

I'm thinking the Z4 because I'm recently dumped and on the prowl , fun when the weather is nice, really sharp looking.

I'm not too concerned about performance which is why I chose the cheaper models with smaller motors. To me, seems like the fast cars impress the guys. Good looking classy cars impress the women. Already had my Corvette this lifetime and now I'd rather cruise with the top down than go 100mph.

I do like reliability. Even with a 4 year warranty, I'd rather not have to hassle with problems.

Thanks for any suggestions!!!
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I am fortunate enough to own a 05 325i and a 04 Z4

If I lived in Dallas and had to choose; its a no brainer. Get the Z4. Unless you absolutely need the rear seats, get the Z4.

The Z4 is more of what a BMW is suppose to be...a driving machine.

I test drove a 325i 06 and it is drives well but it is nothing compared to the Z4.

 

[///M SPEED]

The suggestions Big Daddy and peakpros put forth are very good points however, I would look to the future as well. You are single now and if you decide on the Z4 things could change in the future that will/could force you to either get another car (practical 4-door) or sell the Z4. I agree the Z4 or any other roadster is usually a secondary car. You will love both though....

P.S. Welcome to the board! Good luck with your choice. Remember when you do decide and purchase one of those fine machines come back and post pics. You will find a ton of useful info here and kind and friendly people willing to help....

 

[newguy]

Both models are available, Buy the Z, drive it for a year, and then decide if it right. Maintain it, and it shouldn't cost you much to deal, or sell it....just a thought.

 

[codex57]

I see the Z4 as a secondary car too. If you've got another, than sure. If not, I'd go for the 325i. A roadster can get really impractical quick if that's all you have. Particularly if you're single and have one less person you can borrow a car from.

 

[MrElussive]

I think that if you don't need the rear seats or the overall interior room (such as the increased trunk space), then go for the Z4.
One thing you might want to consider is that you will probably conform to the car. Meaning if you get the 325i, you'll probably find yourself driving people around more often. If you get the Z4, you'll probably find yourself not really needing those rear seats and big trunk.

 

[Militant-Grunt]

How old are you btw? If you're in your 20s- early 30s Id go with the Z4, anything after that id go with a 3 or 5.. Like said earlier unless you really need the extra rear seats go with the Z4..

 

[Bmw 325i 7803]

I would go with the 325i because the Z4 has the outdated gas guzzling 184hp I6 from the previous generation, and the new one has the latest 215hp engine which is more economical. The fact that you're one of the first to have the classy new 2006 3-series will impress... The best advice would be to test-drive both and go with the one you enjoy driving the most, if it must be a Z4 you should consider the 3.0 since it's more than just hp your getting and you will thank yourself later on.

I would point out that a 2005 325i worth 35k+ loaded with options can be picked up for 28k easily, since it's being phased out you can get the car for a steal. Also a loaded 330i worth 43k can be picked up for 35-36k which is about the price of a current 06 325i or 05 Z4... The 330i is a real attractive car, and with the zhp option it will impress.

 

[beamca]

I almost thought I posted this question since I find myself in the very same dilema. Went out to test drive both over the weekend. Walked in the dealer with my wife sure that I wanted a Z4. Drove the 3.0 it, it was very nice, fast, and the engine sounded sweet when reved up. This happened to be a rather hot day in southern california and let me tell you, that sun can take a beating on you. It sure made wonder whether I could handle going topless on the noumerous sunny days we have here. Another issue is that a sports car feels a little more of a chore to drive not to mention the stiffer suspension.

We drove the 325i next and talk about the ultimate driving machine! It lacks the sporty feel of the Z but the added luxury, confort, space, and option to get some sun or not at the touch of a button, was enough to convince me that my mid-life crisis is going to have to wait.

I'm now contemplating to either buy, or lease the 325i and have accepted that I will have to seatle for salivating every time I see a Z on the road.

You are in a different situation, I have 2 kids and one on the way, therefore making the 325i a more practical choice.

 

[frolf]

well man, i'm not a big supporter of the bling, but i'll tell you i wouldn't drive a z4 unless it has some incredible 17s or 18 inch wheels. that thing on 16s looks worse than a lot of the stuff that comes out of my butt in my "morning movement." but dressed up (ie the wheels that come on the 3.0 w/ sport package?) it looks real nice.

 

[peakpros]

We drove the 325i next and talk about the ultimate driving machine! It lacks the sporty feel of the Z but the added luxury, confort, space, and option to get some sun or not at the touch of a button, was enough to convince me that my mid-life crisis is going to have to wait.

Can you tell me what added luxury a 325i has over a 3.0 Z.

My Z4 is loaded and it blows away the interior of the new 3 series.