Ok, since buying my 01 GS back in March, I've driven it a grand total of 2,383 miles (approx 59k on the clock). However, the 4runner is quickly approaching 80k on the clock. I'm thinking of making some shifts in my garage inventory.....
Since I don't drive my car nearly as much anymore, at all, I'm a little tempted to tryout some other types of cars that normally I was a little to affraid to take on, BMW and MB. And, seeing as how I do a 10 mile lap from home-office-home 5 days a week only, I'm thinking I'm overpaying for that service with the GS. I'm thinking of ditching the GS for a higher mileage 325xi, and then trading the 4runner up to a 05-06 GX470. All-in, would save about $1,000-$1,500 a year. I'd simply hand the keys to the GS and about $5,000 over for the keys to a 03-04 325xi with about 80k miles. Hand the keys to the 4runner and about $21-$22k for a 05' GX470 with about 50k miles. I'm seeing them list for about $28k around here. Probably $3k equity in the GS, probably $4k in the 4runner, which would pencil the GX at about $26k, all-in. We bought the 4runner at 52k miles, and it's been perfect. I can only imagine the same results on a GX, since so much of the two share components.
I've always wanted to try a BMW, and seeing as how I'm not all that dependant on a car these days, I not all that picky if something rattles or wiggles. Up here, everything rattles and wiggles on these roads! So, whatcha' think?
Full Version: So, I'm Thinking Of Two New Cars Too
You only live once!
NC, that's not a bad strategy at all. What year BMW are you looking at? Is it BMW 328 specifically? or the best bang for a price bracket?
Do you have the time as well as the interest to take on more maintenance and problems that will invariably come with a higher-mileage vehicle, especially a BMW? If that doesn't bother you, then I see no other reason not to take a shot at your idea considering your annual driving mileage seems to have decreased dramatically since your move to Chicago....
Speaking of that, early this year (pre-move if I remember correctly) you said that you saw it as essentially a 3-year commitment before you would be able to find a way to get back to North Carolina. Is that still your perception?
Speaking of that, early this year (pre-move if I remember correctly) you said that you saw it as essentially a 3-year commitment before you would be able to find a way to get back to North Carolina. Is that still your perception?
Thanks guys, I'm seriously considering doing this. The only problem, is my wife isn't a car nut like I am, and says she doesn't want to replace the 4runner. I can't blame her, as it's been down-right flawless. But, she hasn't been inside of a GX470 either. The only way I'd do this, is if the 4runner gets upgraded, because there are times when I'll need a big-boy businessman vehicle, which the GS430 serves quite well. A 325xi won't fit that bill, as it's too small.
Smooth, my approach is really more bang for the buck, and AWD. I know the GS is going to be a hassle at times this winter, even with the "snow" option activated. And I'm not going to put nobbies on it either, that just bugs me. I'd rather replace the car, then spend the next 6 months driving around with Mickey Thompsons on a Lexus.
When I was searching for a replacement vehicle for my wife's Honda Civic (ended up to be the Mazda), we were seriously considering a 3 series. I remember talking to a few people at gas stations and parking lots that had them, asking them how they liked theirs and if problems were an issue. Everyone said they loved theirs, had no major problems, and all were in the 100k+ mileage area. One guy had a 330xi with over 300k miles on it! And said it's the best car he's ever owned. They're basically the European Honda Civics, from what I can gather. Top Gear said the same thing. So if I found one with about 80k miles, had it checked out by a pro mechanic (there is a german shop two blocks from my house called Gearhead http://www.gearhead-autorepair.com/ that everyone raves about in town), then I'd be ok with it. Considering the mileage that's going to be put on it, I'm not too worried about wear and tear from me. At this rate, I'll be changing the oil in the Lexus once a year!
RX: I don't have the time to do anything these days!
I've got about $900 worth of new parts for the Lexus sitting in my garage, that I ordered back in July (brakes, ball joints, plugs, pads, ball joints, fan belt) that I just can't find the time to get to. Our 3 year plan still exists, pending the economy will allow it. But, probably won't be NC anymore, thanks to Charlotte being wiped out by all of this. We're looking at Atlanta instead. But, if my company decides to go back to the east coast, which I'm 90% positive they will, then I'm the logical pick to run it. But, rumor has it, they'd like NYC or DC. NYC is a no-way in hell option. DC would be tough too, but it depends on the salary bump, which will have to increase dramatically for us to agree to it. For some reason, they're just fans of the southeast. Funny, considering everyone BUT us has a dedicated office in Atlanta. I was in Raleigh last Wednesday to inspect one of our assets downtown. I had dinner with some folks, and all I can say is the pieces to puzzle to execute the 3 year plan, are in play. The questions that remain is where, and the economy. Commercial Real Estate is being chatted up as the next shoe to drop. I don't believe the news reports at all, but I do think it'll take a hit, but not like what these "expert" idiots are saying everywhere. Too many lessons learned in the early 90's, too many tools put into place back then, for the industry to faulter like that again. Heck, we're two years into this recession, and it remains healthy, the only healthy sector left actually. Indications from the past few months on the bond markets certainly suggest a strong belief in the sector from investors, given the billions of dollars raised by the REITS via unsecured bond offerings, and coupons lower than mortgage rates. They put the offering out there, and investors snap it up faster than a Taco Bell drive-thru.
So...we'll see what happens, on all fronts. First thing, is getting the wife to check out a GX470 and get on board with this.
Smooth, my approach is really more bang for the buck, and AWD. I know the GS is going to be a hassle at times this winter, even with the "snow" option activated. And I'm not going to put nobbies on it either, that just bugs me. I'd rather replace the car, then spend the next 6 months driving around with Mickey Thompsons on a Lexus.
When I was searching for a replacement vehicle for my wife's Honda Civic (ended up to be the Mazda), we were seriously considering a 3 series. I remember talking to a few people at gas stations and parking lots that had them, asking them how they liked theirs and if problems were an issue. Everyone said they loved theirs, had no major problems, and all were in the 100k+ mileage area. One guy had a 330xi with over 300k miles on it! And said it's the best car he's ever owned. They're basically the European Honda Civics, from what I can gather. Top Gear said the same thing. So if I found one with about 80k miles, had it checked out by a pro mechanic (there is a german shop two blocks from my house called Gearhead http://www.gearhead-autorepair.com/ that everyone raves about in town), then I'd be ok with it. Considering the mileage that's going to be put on it, I'm not too worried about wear and tear from me. At this rate, I'll be changing the oil in the Lexus once a year!
RX: I don't have the time to do anything these days!
I've got about $900 worth of new parts for the Lexus sitting in my garage, that I ordered back in July (brakes, ball joints, plugs, pads, ball joints, fan belt) that I just can't find the time to get to. Our 3 year plan still exists, pending the economy will allow it. But, probably won't be NC anymore, thanks to Charlotte being wiped out by all of this. We're looking at Atlanta instead. But, if my company decides to go back to the east coast, which I'm 90% positive they will, then I'm the logical pick to run it. But, rumor has it, they'd like NYC or DC. NYC is a no-way in hell option. DC would be tough too, but it depends on the salary bump, which will have to increase dramatically for us to agree to it. For some reason, they're just fans of the southeast. Funny, considering everyone BUT us has a dedicated office in Atlanta. I was in Raleigh last Wednesday to inspect one of our assets downtown. I had dinner with some folks, and all I can say is the pieces to puzzle to execute the 3 year plan, are in play. The questions that remain is where, and the economy. Commercial Real Estate is being chatted up as the next shoe to drop. I don't believe the news reports at all, but I do think it'll take a hit, but not like what these "expert" idiots are saying everywhere. Too many lessons learned in the early 90's, too many tools put into place back then, for the industry to faulter like that again. Heck, we're two years into this recession, and it remains healthy, the only healthy sector left actually. Indications from the past few months on the bond markets certainly suggest a strong belief in the sector from investors, given the billions of dollars raised by the REITS via unsecured bond offerings, and coupons lower than mortgage rates. They put the offering out there, and investors snap it up faster than a Taco Bell drive-thru. So...we'll see what happens, on all fronts. First thing, is getting the wife to check out a GX470 and get on board with this.
QUOTE (nc211 @ Oct 8 2009, 10:39 AM) 
Thanks guys, I'm seriously considering doing this. The only problem, is my wife isn't a car nut like I am, and says she doesn't want to replace the 4runner. I can't blame her, as it's been down-right flawless. But, she hasn't been inside of a GX470 either. The only way I'd do this, is if the 4runner gets upgraded, because there are times when I'll need a big-boy businessman vehicle, which the GS430 serves quite well. A 325xi won't fit that bill, as it's too small.
Smooth, my approach is really more bang for the buck, and AWD. I know the GS is going to be a hassle at times this winter, even with the "snow" option activated. And I'm not going to put nobbies on it either, that just bugs me. I'd rather replace the car, then spend the next 6 months driving around with Mickey Thompsons on a Lexus.
When I was searching for a replacement vehicle for my wife's Honda Civic (ended up to be the Mazda), we were seriously considering a 3 series. I remember talking to a few people at gas stations and parking lots that had them, asking them how they liked theirs and if problems were an issue. Everyone said they loved theirs, had no major problems, and all were in the 100k+ mileage area. One guy had a 330xi with over 300k miles on it! And said it's the best car he's ever owned. They're basically the European Honda Civics, from what I can gather. Top Gear said the same thing. So if I found one with about 80k miles, had it checked out by a pro mechanic (there is a german shop two blocks from my house called Gearhead http://www.gearhead-autorepair.com/ that everyone raves about in town), then I'd be ok with it. Considering the mileage that's going to be put on it, I'm not too worried about wear and tear from me. At this rate, I'll be changing the oil in the Lexus once a year!
RX: I don't have the time to do anything these days! I've got about $900 worth of new parts for the Lexus sitting in my garage, that I ordered back in July (brakes, ball joints, plugs, pads, ball joints, fan belt) that I just can't find the time to get to. Our 3 year plan still exists, pending the economy will allow it. But, probably won't be NC anymore, thanks to Charlotte being wiped out by all of this. We're looking at Atlanta instead. But, if my company decides to go back to the east coast, which I'm 90% positive they will, then I'm the logical pick to run it. But, rumor has it, they'd like NYC or DC. NYC is a no-way in hell option. DC would be tough too, but it depends on the salary bump, which will have to increase dramatically for us to agree to it. For some reason, they're just fans of the southeast. Funny, considering everyone BUT us has a dedicated office in Atlanta. I was in Raleigh last Wednesday to inspect one of our assets downtown. I had dinner with some folks, and all I can say is the pieces to puzzle to execute the 3 year plan, are in play. The questions that remain is where, and the economy. Commercial Real Estate is being chatted up as the next shoe to drop. I don't believe the news reports at all, but I do think it'll take a hit, but not like what these "expert" idiots are saying everywhere. Too many lessons learned in the early 90's, too many tools put into place back then, for the industry to faulter like that again. Heck, we're two years into this recession, and it remains healthy, the only healthy sector left actually. Indications from the past few months on the bond markets certainly suggest a strong belief in the sector from investors, given the billions of dollars raised by the REITS via unsecured bond offerings, and coupons lower than mortgage rates. They put the offering out there, and investors snap it up faster than a Taco Bell drive-thru.
So...we'll see what happens, on all fronts. First thing, is getting the wife to check out a GX470 and get on board with this.
Smooth, my approach is really more bang for the buck, and AWD. I know the GS is going to be a hassle at times this winter, even with the "snow" option activated. And I'm not going to put nobbies on it either, that just bugs me. I'd rather replace the car, then spend the next 6 months driving around with Mickey Thompsons on a Lexus.
When I was searching for a replacement vehicle for my wife's Honda Civic (ended up to be the Mazda), we were seriously considering a 3 series. I remember talking to a few people at gas stations and parking lots that had them, asking them how they liked theirs and if problems were an issue. Everyone said they loved theirs, had no major problems, and all were in the 100k+ mileage area. One guy had a 330xi with over 300k miles on it! And said it's the best car he's ever owned. They're basically the European Honda Civics, from what I can gather. Top Gear said the same thing. So if I found one with about 80k miles, had it checked out by a pro mechanic (there is a german shop two blocks from my house called Gearhead http://www.gearhead-autorepair.com/ that everyone raves about in town), then I'd be ok with it. Considering the mileage that's going to be put on it, I'm not too worried about wear and tear from me. At this rate, I'll be changing the oil in the Lexus once a year!
RX: I don't have the time to do anything these days!
I've got about $900 worth of new parts for the Lexus sitting in my garage, that I ordered back in July (brakes, ball joints, plugs, pads, ball joints, fan belt) that I just can't find the time to get to. Our 3 year plan still exists, pending the economy will allow it. But, probably won't be NC anymore, thanks to Charlotte being wiped out by all of this. We're looking at Atlanta instead. But, if my company decides to go back to the east coast, which I'm 90% positive they will, then I'm the logical pick to run it. But, rumor has it, they'd like NYC or DC. NYC is a no-way in hell option. DC would be tough too, but it depends on the salary bump, which will have to increase dramatically for us to agree to it. For some reason, they're just fans of the southeast. Funny, considering everyone BUT us has a dedicated office in Atlanta. I was in Raleigh last Wednesday to inspect one of our assets downtown. I had dinner with some folks, and all I can say is the pieces to puzzle to execute the 3 year plan, are in play. The questions that remain is where, and the economy. Commercial Real Estate is being chatted up as the next shoe to drop. I don't believe the news reports at all, but I do think it'll take a hit, but not like what these "expert" idiots are saying everywhere. Too many lessons learned in the early 90's, too many tools put into place back then, for the industry to faulter like that again. Heck, we're two years into this recession, and it remains healthy, the only healthy sector left actually. Indications from the past few months on the bond markets certainly suggest a strong belief in the sector from investors, given the billions of dollars raised by the REITS via unsecured bond offerings, and coupons lower than mortgage rates. They put the offering out there, and investors snap it up faster than a Taco Bell drive-thru. So...we'll see what happens, on all fronts. First thing, is getting the wife to check out a GX470 and get on board with this.
Start with flowers first.I loved the 03-05 BMW model design. The headlights and body flow on that car are just beautiful. lexirx got a great deal on an (05?) X5 loaded, and he's lovin it. And as I already said, those were the best looking designs so far in my opinion. Don't get me wrong, I like the current look, but I can't help but ooohh a little more over those. And I've always wished the interiors were a little more "Lexus" like, for the lack of being able to find a simpler description. If I were "up north", I think I would be doing or have done exactly what your trying to do here. One big capable and "luxo" SUV for the family and professional needs, and the "toy" car for all the other "needs." LOL! I do understand not wanting to give up a great running truck though. But it's not like you trading in reliability for looks, you actually trading up the ladder in both. Just take her car shopping with ya.
Once the bug bites theres only one cure for the fever.
I know several people with GX470s and all of them are very happy with them.
The 3 series BMW has never done anything for me though. I have a friend that loves them and has had 3 or 4, all converibles and the convertible is sharp, but the sedan has always looked dumpy to me. No way I'd trade a GS for one, JMHO.
In terms of reliability, the 3 series seems very reliable. Its the 5 that has a lot more issues, I have a buddy with an 03 530i that he put $10,000 into last year in repairs...
I can't imagine the cost of living here would be that much worse than in Chicago...
The 3 series BMW has never done anything for me though. I have a friend that loves them and has had 3 or 4, all converibles and the convertible is sharp, but the sedan has always looked dumpy to me. No way I'd trade a GS for one, JMHO.
In terms of reliability, the 3 series seems very reliable. Its the 5 that has a lot more issues, I have a buddy with an 03 530i that he put $10,000 into last year in repairs...
I can't imagine the cost of living here would be that much worse than in Chicago...
I don't mind the style of the 2003-ish BMW 3 series sedans, i think they look very classy.
If you want it and can afford it, i say go for it. Like i said before, you only live once. Even if it didn't turn out, not the end of the world.
As for the wife, if she's anything like my girlfriend (or like any girl for that matter), car's don't mean much. She'll probably find it hard to spend more money for a GX when she's "ok" with the 4Runner. It seems for most women (not to be sexist
) car's are just a means for getting around (as horrible as that idea seems lol)
It would be like your wife trying to get you to spend more money on "designer" clothes.
Let her spend the extra money on something she likes- i mean, the 4Runner is safe and reliable, it does the job for someone who doesn't like cars...
If you want it and can afford it, i say go for it. Like i said before, you only live once. Even if it didn't turn out, not the end of the world.
As for the wife, if she's anything like my girlfriend (or like any girl for that matter), car's don't mean much. She'll probably find it hard to spend more money for a GX when she's "ok" with the 4Runner. It seems for most women (not to be sexist
) car's are just a means for getting around (as horrible as that idea seems lol)It would be like your wife trying to get you to spend more money on "designer" clothes.
Let her spend the extra money on something she likes- i mean, the 4Runner is safe and reliable, it does the job for someone who doesn't like cars...
NC. I love my LEXUS...But I love driving my BMW. This thing is on rails. Just run a car fax if it is a clean car it is a clean car. They are expensive as hell if something goes up but pick up an extended warranty or buy cpo. Hell I bet you can find a CPO on a dealer lot, tell the dealer you don't want the CPO to remove it from the price of the car and get it darn near thrown in free. They will tell you how much time and money that they put in the car to CPO it, just keep telling them you aren't interested in their warranty and that you can buy better ones for far less money...they will keep the price coming down. One of the big things that got my 06 X5 down was that they had the same exact X5 on the lot that they could not CPO because it had missed a service. Well kept telling them that was the one I wanted...and the price I wanted. BMW would not give the .9% on it because it wasn't CPO...so I kept insisting that they sell me the CPO for the same price as the non CPO. Well got it there took about 5 days.
The other option in my thinking is to keep the GS for a lot longer. Originally purchased to be the "chicago" car, which was to be dumped upon our exit from the area in a couple of years, now with such low mileage being put on it, I could simply keep it with the thinking of not dumping it when we leave. It doesn't even have 60k miles on it, and when the glorious day comes for us to head back south, it'll probalby barely have 70k miles. I must admit, it's held up pretty well up here, especially given the fact that it's 8 years old now. The only sign of the winters is some rust on a metal strip along the underside of the rear spoiler, that's it. Oh, and the stabilizer bars look like hell. If I go the BMW route, it's pretty much a given that I'll have to replace it in a couple of years, which could erase the financial benefit of the plan. I'd have a higher payment on the GX in place, and looking to buy another car.
I think I'll just sit tight for a bit and see what unfolds, see how I manage with the GS over the winter. Oh, and just in case if you forgot how much I love chitcago (that "t" isn't a typo), it's going to freakin' SNOW this weekend!!! DAMN
MOFO DAMNIT TO 
I think I'll just sit tight for a bit and see what unfolds, see how I manage with the GS over the winter. Oh, and just in case if you forgot how much I love chitcago (that "t" isn't a typo), it's going to freakin' SNOW this weekend!!! DAMN
MOFO DAMNIT TO
At least you don't have to put up with the Olympics LOL
BMW, honestly, if you're starting with a high mileage one, and you are coming from Toyota/Lexus, you might have a bad experience with Bavarian Motor Works. BMWs at high mileage are costly. They don't last as long as Lexus and high repair bills usually result from them. I have an 09 528i now and I don't plan on keeping her after the lease is up. If I want a BMW after the lease is up, I will have to lease a new one again. 
GX470s are great! I agree with SW LOL
They have problems also, but not very major ones. Find one without the clunk (you know, you drive a 4Runner) and a GX470 will serve you until you get really sick of it because of high mileage and trying to kill it but it just won't die on you
There might be specials on remaining 09 BMWs... There might be an 09 328i available at your local BMW dealership and give that one a try in terms of a test drive and some $$$ figures.
GX470s are great! I agree with SW LOL
They have problems also, but not very major ones. Find one without the clunk (you know, you drive a 4Runner) and a GX470 will serve you until you get really sick of it because of high mileage and trying to kill it but it just won't die on you There might be specials on remaining 09 BMWs... There might be an 09 328i available at your local BMW dealership and give that one a try in terms of a test drive and some $$$ figures.
I've decided against this idea. After the weekend, having some time to sit still and think for a few minutes outside of the office, it just doesn't make sense to do this. I've got two very nice cars, that I know I can depend on, and cover all the bases for what I need out of a car. I just can't justify letting the GS go. Not with less then 60k miles, and only needs the normal routine maintenance of a brake job and a slight tune up from sitting for most of it's life. Age is it's enemy, not wear and tear. Who knows what i'd end up with in BMW'ville. My GS came to the market due to the current economic conditions, the previous owner couldn't afford it anymore. I doubt a high mileage BMW would have the same backstory to it. And if I decided that I didn't like it, and already had the more expensive GX in the garage (and on the books), i'd be worse off financially, because i'd have to replace the bmw with what I would assume would be a more expesive car, because I doubt I'd go back into the sub 10k$ again. So, if it ain't broke, don't fix it! Got no problems with my set up now, both mechanically, functionally, and financially. No need to change up the line up.
A very smart, consider-the-economics-first decision. Exactly what I thought you'd conclude after a few days of thinking about it. In this economy, why make any changes if what you have is working for you?
Well that's good that you decided to stick with the GS. 
A high-mileage BMW isn't advisable lol IMHO..
A high-mileage BMW isn't advisable lol IMHO..
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