[HadesM3]

I am considering purchasing a 2010 in Lemans Blue with an automatic transmission. It has 82k miles and in great shape w/new tires, brakes and water pump. 3 owners/no accidents. It has moderate options, but does not have I-drive/Nav which I prefer.

The seller is relatively firm at $13k. Is this a fair price? KBB states private party value is about $12k.

I was planning to daily drive this about 15k miles a year, but have concerns of an N54 nearing 100k. Is a 328i a better choice as a daily driver from a reliability standpoint?

Thanks!

[Fritzer]

$13k isn't the worst price ever, but always negotiate as much as you can. Make you the car is fully mechanically inspected beforehand, especially if you can't/don't know how to do so. The N54 can be a reliable engine if closely watched, and a very fun car. However I am biased and enjoy the NA power-band and reliability. Especially considering that it seems like every car BMW makes has turbochargers now, NA vehicles are a bit more special to me.

[BimmerNugget]

As a 328i owner....yes. If you're doing 15k miles a year your wallet will thank you if you go with a 328i.

Just get an AA exhaust or RE Ikon exhaust plus a BPC tune and the 328i will be plenty fun. It's got less issues than a 335i and that NA inline 6 is a amazing. Once it's warmed up, it practically begs to be taken to WOT every time. Revs very freely. N52/N51 is truly a gem of a motor. My only regret is not getting a loaded 328i....with Nav, M sport, xenons etc.

[HadesM3]

I plan to have a PPI performed on the 335i later this week.

However, I do want to drive a 328i as a well for comparison. I love the n54 torque, but not at the expense of significant repair costs.

When you guys state the n51/52 is more reliable, are you saying just a little or night and day compared to the n54

Thanks

[Fritzer]

Originally Posted by ZombieM3

When you guys state the n51/52 is more reliable, are you saying just a little or night and day compared to the n54

I have never owned a N54 myself, I currently own a N51 for the last 45,000 miles and have been pleased with the overall robustness of the engine. Only issue really was a few gasket leaks and a starter motor.

However back in 2007 my father ordered a perfectly specced E92 335i. He loved it, but had to take it back to the service center a month later. It sat there for two months, then the dealership just took the loss and gave him one off the lot, which he had for three years. If I remember properly it was something to do with the HPFP and something else with the turbos.