Trying to realize a dream--looking for advice

Hey, Moe! · 03-26-08, 07:40

Sometimes, things just kind of fall into place.

Yesterday, a few things in my life came together, and to cut to the chase, I am planning to retire from my teaching job of 34 years in June of 2009. My income in retirement will match what I make while teaching, and since I have a pretty simple lifestyle, that should work. I also have three interesting part-time jobs that I can work at as I feel like it, in addition to playing more tennis and learning to play golf.

My Focus ST (American) will be paid for at that time, and I intend to keep it, and use it as a daily driver and winter car. Without the Focus payment, I can afford to lease something a little nicer, and pamper it even more than the Focus.

Since I was in college, I have always wanted a BMW. I am interested in getting either a 1-series or a 3-series.

Since I put a lot of faith in the people who frequent this site, I am asking any Bimmer people out there as to which online BMW forums are worth joining. I am hoping to get opinions of the various models, and the ins and outs of BMW puschasing/ownership. I am even willing to listen to those who would try to talk me out of my plan.

Any suggestions would be appreciated--thanks!

White_07_G6_GT · 03-26-08, 07:45

Bimmerforums.com - The Ultimate BMW Forum

A great place.

themightytimmah · 03-26-08, 08:07

Get it, you won't regret it.

If you can spring for it, the 335i is worth the premium IMO. I would suggest looking into an E46 M3 also... similar money to a newer, slower one.

Oh yeah, and do not, I repeat, do not get their "Jet Black". I swear that the wind marrs that paint as it passes by.

Hey, Moe! · 03-26-08, 09:00

Timmah--will definitely consider your advice. Yikes!

Yeah, I'm kinda fond of the 335, too. We will see.

G6 GT-Thanks!

mhadden · 03-27-08, 11:55

Bimmerforums is nice...I frequent bimmerfest.com more, though.

Personally, I love the new 335i, BEA-utiful car, but I agree with some people about it getting "too big" I love my friends E30...the size is perfect. Therefore, I'm actually looking for a. a used E46 coupe (2005-2006) or a new 1-series, when the time comes. Of course, that's my opinion and you'll decide for yourself...but that 1-series with 300hp and slightly lighter curb weight = awesome + a blast to drive. Indirectly quoting a car mag, the new 1-series is like a M2.5!

johny · 03-27-08, 12:13

1Addicts.com is great for info about the 1 series.

Accumulator · 03-27-08, 01:30

Hey, Moe!- From one retired teacher to another (well, a soon-to-be) one, congrats

My only advice: a) find a dealership you'll be happy with (our primary cars are Audis as much because of the dealer as anything else), b) avoid the stupid-soft clear that some BMWs have, and c) buy whatever *you* really like.

Hey, Moe! · 03-27-08, 09:36

Thanks, Accumulator!

Yes, I am going to take the next year to get a read on BMW dealers within my "territory."

I bought a bunch of Fords here in my boondocks because of the dealer. I consider the owner to be a friend. Not that I can match that feeling, but I will be sure that I am comfortable with the BMW dealer of my choice.

I'm pretty good at digging around for the "facts," and I have a year to do so.

Yes, I hear you (and the choir) preaching about the soft BMW clear (Jet Black keeps coming up on my radar).

It is going to be a fun year. I am going to have a great time with this "project," and a lot of fun driving my "dream."

Accumulator · 03-28-08, 11:09

Hey, Moe!- And don't be surprised if, after a while, you find yourself doing something not unlike teaching....I post here, Accumulatorette tutors dyslexic kids, you might find yourself doing something like that too

Just a FWIW on the color choice- a color that you like, but that is *NOT* a never-ending challenge, is, *IMO* most likely to provide the greatest satisfaction. Something that takes over your life might not be as much fun to live with as it was to dream about

oneshare325 · 03-28-08, 11:15

I have an 06 3 series (e90) and love it everyday!

I am a post whore at e90post.com and I think it is a great place to be!!

e90post FTW!!!

Bruce B · 03-28-08, 11:24

All excellent replies.
I have an "02" 330i in Orient blue (the best dark blue ever IMHO !) they make wonderful cars that are solid and drive like they were new even when 6 years old.
Good luck with your retirement. I am about a year away myself.

Cheers

mhadden · 03-28-08, 12:05

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bruce B

All excellent replies.
I have an "02" 330i in Orient blue (the best dark blue ever IMHO !) they make wonderful cars that are solid and drive like they were new even when 6 years old.
Good luck with your retirement. I am about a year away myself.

Cheers

I agree, but I've never understood why so many people are changing parts out, especially the cooling system so soon (E46's). I'd rather buy the parts and have them ready for when it happens! Have you replaced your water pump/radiator yet