Looking to Buy a BMW 135i! - Please help

Ljustinvu on 16/11/2016 - 08:53
Last edited 28/11/2016 - 13:24 by 2 other users

Hi guys, hope you can help me out of this dilemma!

I'm contemplating to buy a 2011 n55 135i from a friend of mine. He bought it new with PPK stage 2, genuine carbon lip spoiler, carbon mirror and carbon diffuser. It's alpine white with terra brown interior and it's mostly not driven at all. After nearly 5 years the clock is only 15k kms. It does not come with idrive but does come with front and rear sensor. Service is always spot on from BMW dealer.

Honestly, u cant fault the car from any aspect. However, he's asking $50k, while car valuations show the value of the car should be around $33k-$38k (with 70k km and 40k km on the clock respectively).

Do u guys think it's worth the money? For what it is, I think i would only pay $42k at most, knowing that the car is so good. But can't convince myself buying a 5 year old car with that much of $$$.

Any input is appreciated. Thanks guys

** EDIT: his car is no longer an option. I've opted for a much cheaper option, not much of a changeover cost from my Golf GTi with similar km. Can't wait to pickup my new 135i

*** EDIT 2: just purchased a 135i 2011 model with mods + quite clean. a bit high km (100k) but all services have been done and it's a lot cheaper ($28k). less headache though. Thank you all for your input and time to share your thoughts. I truly appreciate it.

Poll Options

  • 201
    How much should I pay for the car?
  • 61
    $36,000 - $39,000
  • 27
    $39,000 - $42,000
  • 2
    $42,000 - $45,000
  • 4
    $45,000+
Automotive BMW

Comments

  • [Deactivated] on 16/11/2016 - 09:14

    its a BMW its never worth the money

    • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 09:19
      +14

      well I guess, buying a depreciate asset is never a 'worthwhile' decision. But sure it does add sentimental value for buyer. Some people buy car not to preserve the value but to enjoy the feeling behind the wheel.

      • Quotationz on 17/11/2016 - 17:30
        +19

        I think you're missing one essential thing…. Being an Uni graduate and having a job at Westpac

        • justinvu on 17/11/2016 - 19:16
          +5

          Haha, that was the guy buying a car for $80k right? well at least we have something in common, I'm in finance too. just got a job (1 year exp).

          But what i differ from him is that I have my own place + I understand car is a depreciated asset haha

    • JimB on 16/11/2016 - 09:44
      +17

      RWD 3.0L Turbo Straight 6.

      Well worth the money.

      • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 09:50
        +7

        Girls wont understand, tell me how they justify buying Chanel, LV and Dior Bags which are nothing more than some other genuine leather bags. But you pay 10-20 times more.

        Plus, bags are self-fish, only the holder can use, whereas cars are a shared joy / toy for both passengers and drivers

        • tomsco on 16/11/2016 - 10:23
          +37

          Yep. They are an investment with a high yield.

        • ThadtheChad on 16/11/2016 - 15:53
          +17

          @eggmaster:

          Member Since
          1 hour 11 min ago

          hmmmm :scratches chin:

          As a dude I enjoy buying Prada, Gucci or LV Bags as it provides as they are long lasting, functional items that convey the sense that I am not a peasant and promote a self image, which in turn promotes self confidence.
          Any time I am in a car. No matter what car it is; I am not experiencing "Joy".
          I could be driving highways or stop/start traffic in a Ferrari and I would still feel like I am wasting my life away.

          Troll confirmed!

        • ThadtheChad on 16/11/2016 - 16:33
          +28

          @eggmaster:

          Righto.

          Cars are definitely fun! A melding of technological and mechanical engineering. The joy of a responsive nimble car… the roar of a powerful engine as it flexes it's muscles and effortlessly moves forward/uphill… the comfort of a plush cabin while the weather outside is a harsh extreme… the quality of interiors that makes every surface seem aesthetically pleasing. :)

          I think "designer" gear for men like Chanel/LV/Dior/Armani etc are frivolous and a laughable waste of money (and also very poncey). I've bought a few for my Mrs, and I truly do not see the craftsmanship that warrants the asking price.

          Yet I find high end watches quite desirable. The movements are a work of art and engineering… and many have very interesting stories attached to them.

          As they say, different strokes for different folks.

          I would pay upto 150k for a car…
          20k for a watch…
          and a $100 for a wallet.

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 18:52
          +3

          @gearhead: i feel so upset that i cant give u 10 pluses for ur comment …!!!

        • airzone on 17/11/2016 - 08:37

          @tomsco: Common sense is the exact opposite.

          But have received some professional financial advice lately that this is indeed correct and I don't know what I'm talking about. Who knew!

        • Handsoff on 17/11/2016 - 09:06
          +1

          @eggmaster:

          I bought an '04 Honda S2000 for $30,000. Drove for 2 years and added 30,000km to the clock and sold it for the same amount. There are certain cars which are investments. Lots of the old Japanese cars have doubled in sales value in the past 2-3 years. The old Twin Turbo Toyota Supras went from $15k-20k and now they're going for $30k-$35.

          Don't think explaining the joy of driving to you will do much, you need to experience it yourself. A controlled thrill.

        • imurgod on 17/11/2016 - 11:53

          @Handsoff: always wanted an S2000. Still holds its own today.

        • ozeebee on 17/11/2016 - 20:50
          +1

          @Handsoff:

          The S2000 was when Honda was at their peak period in design. That car still looks amazing today and hasn't aged one bit.

          Honda's these days though…

    • scrambledeggs on 16/11/2016 - 09:58
      +38

      If you're ever feeling useless - just remember - there is someone installing indicators at the BMW factory.

      • Janko on 17/11/2016 - 20:13
        +4

        Yep, especially as BMW drivers don't use them anyway - I attempt to but end up putting on the wipers.

      • User102430 on 19/11/2016 - 00:04
        +1

        as someone said - BMW indicators emit light that is invisible to poor people ;)

  • oscargamer on 16/11/2016 - 09:20
    +2

    don't

  • PJC on 16/11/2016 - 09:21
    +7

    The poll options should include "Do Not Purchase".

    • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 09:33

      Haha. Then it is subject to personal taste, whereas my question is purely about numbers :)

  • Baysew on 16/11/2016 - 09:27
    +75

    I am only looking at cars that cost more than $80k, as I read that it it's an investment with high yield.

    • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 09:34

      Are you just trolling? Find me a high yield investment in a highly depreciated asset like cars haha.

      • k-rokfm on 16/11/2016 - 12:13
        +1

        …classic cars have been becoming a high yield investment in the last decade.

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 12:22
          +1

          i think a worthwhile high yield investment should come with reasonable liquidity as well :D

        • Cluster on 16/11/2016 - 15:46

          I know someone who purchased a Porsche 356 because he both wants to drive the car on weekends plus sell it later on for more than he bought it for.

          I'm not sure he'll ever see a return on investment, considering he's had to spend on registration, insurance, plus fixing the car. 1960s cars break down. Frequently. And expensively. They don't build them like they used to (they build them better). Every mechanic can see you coming with a desirable classic car and charges accordingly.

        • k-rokfm on 17/11/2016 - 08:39
          +1

          @Cluster:

          It really depends on whether you are looking at a classic car for the investment or for enjoyment. For example if youre looking at a car for investment then you would really only be parking it in a garage/showroom and never drive it.

          If you wanted to ever drive it then you would really be looking for a car for fun

    • imc123 on 16/11/2016 - 09:37
      +3

      2meta4me

    • Donaldhump on 17/11/2016 - 00:15
      +1

      remember to get a boat as well

      • imurgod on 17/11/2016 - 11:55

        And a helicopter

    • Marcsie on 17/11/2016 - 19:04

      I guess you work with Westpac Bank as well ? lol

  • JimB on 16/11/2016 - 09:42
    +6

    $50k- tell him he is dreaming.

    At $40k it's a fairer price considering it's 5 years old. Even then I wouldn't pay more than $35k for it.

    For $50k, you'd want the 2015 LCI update which looks much better.

    BMW cut the price massively after ~2013.

    How many times has he serviced it?

    • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 09:48

      If i offer $45k he would take it I know. Initially I was thinking around $36-$38k but I know he's just not gonna take it. Plus he does not need to sell the car urgently and even has an option to keep it so I know I have to raise my bid a little bit more (obviously not above my forehead). and I'm with you, I think $40k is a fair price and $42k is a price that I pay extra for my own preference. Service is always up to date, never miss it, always from BMW.

      $45-$50k i would have a lot more options, like M135i, M235i, Audi S3, Golf R Mk7. But i didn't want another hatchback, I want a coupe and just happen to love the old school hydraulic steering from the 135i.

      • JimB on 16/11/2016 - 10:04
        +1

        Seems like your friend has some money to burn on a car he doesn't need.

        I thought the M135i had electric power steering or are you referring to the older 135i coupe?

        I like the F20 LCI M135i or the newer M140i. I couldn't live with the non-LCI headlights, it would be LCI update or nothing.

        For $50k coupe, well, there's not much choice other than a M235i which is a fantastic car. In the back of my mind, I'm thinking about getting the M2 after I finish building a house.

        I'd also look at the Renault Megane 265 update for under $30k.

        What are you currently driving?

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 10:32

          Mate, I'm driving golf GTI now. But because my missus and I are working in the city. We only drive it in the weekend. So my thoughts were to have something nice and sporty to use if we are not using much anyway. And it's just coincident that my friend is selling his car.

          The e82 135i has hydraulic steering (heavy, precise steering) and the M135i / M235i has electronic powered steering which is a lot softer, and more digital / computer feel. M235i is probably my next choice, although the price tag is gonna be around $60k which is not very ideal for me.

          My friend's 135i is actually the LCI version, with xenon and adaptive headlights, the LED tail light can be changed easily at around $500 mark so it's not a big concern for me.

          Renault is nice too but it's not in the consideration list for my missus :(

          • gezza90 on 23/03/2019 - 11:13

            @justinvu: So it won't be a daily. Is it manual or auto? For a car like this, you'd want a manual. Get one and thank me later.

            • IceCreamBandit on 23/03/2019 - 11:32

              @gezza90:

              Get one and thank me later.

              How did you find a thread from 2016 to reply to?

              • gezza90 on 23/03/2019 - 12:10

                @IceCreamBandit: Lol woops didn't see the date. Somehow this was on my homepage. Hmm

        • JimB on 16/11/2016 - 12:13
          +2

          @justinvu:

          If you don't need a car just yet, I'd wait until the M235i drops further.

          There is a higher KM M235i under $50k now..

          But this isn't bad- http://www.carsales.com.au/dealer/details/BMW-M235i-2014/OAG…

          If you wait until next year, there will be more M235i's on the market as they come off 3 year leases and I'm sure you'll be able to pick one up for low to mid 40's. Certainly makes more sense than paying $42k on a 5 yo car that has been superceded.

          The M235i makes the 135i look old in comparison.

          I do agree electric power steering is terrible compared to hydraulic. I've heard Porsche's 911 electric power steering is very good but yeah I can't afford that.

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 12:20

          @JB1: That's exactly right. It's gotta be a top tier EPS to compare with hydraulic.

          Somehow I still feel that the 135i e82 has a 'raw' and 'wild' look to it. How do i put it? Hmm…Let's just say the M235i is like a digital machine while the 135i is like a car. The engagement with the driver and the road is something that new cars these day don't seem to have.

        • JimB on 17/11/2016 - 10:39

          @justinvu:

          I was just thinking about the other day and thinking what has happened to steering feel with cars lately.

          I've been driving a BMW E46 3 series lately and really the steering feel is excellent compared to recent BMWs, Mercs, Audi's, shits all over my MkV GTI (which is suppose to be better than the MkVI GTI).

          I think the E46 3 series was the pinnacle of BMW when they were on top of their game and head and shoulders above their peers, they lost it with the E90 and F30, they are slowly regaining it with the F30 LCI. Even the first F30 M3s were a disappointment.

          I've slowly been turned off BMW cars with the exception of their sports cars, the current range is good again, M2, M140/M135 LCI, M240, M3 LCI.

          It will be a shame with the next 1 & 2 Series will be 4cyc and FWD.

          BMW also lost me when they removed the dip stick. The E46 straight 6 is easy to work on, I scratch my head looking into the engine bay of newer BMWs.

      • ozeebee on 16/11/2016 - 20:30

        Going by this post, why not just save a bit more and get the M235i? It's a better car overall and obviously a lot newer.

      • itbargainhunter on 17/11/2016 - 10:28
        -1

        You don't NEED that particular car, do you?
        With 40-42k to spend you sure you cannot buy a better 2nd hand car?

        Spending 40-42k on this car only valued by insurer for ~35k meaning you will never be fully covered by insurance, no matter what level or premium you are willing to pay.

        5 year old is the sticky point, as problem starts to surface even with its low kms.

        In genenal I don't like buying from a friend, unless I know the car inside out and price is slightly cheaper. That's what friends for right?

        A bad transaction may cost your friendship if that is important to you.

  • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 09:57
    +2

    Why everyone is voting on the question ? @_@

    • phocus on 16/11/2016 - 11:49
      +30

      why did you make it an option? @_@

      • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 12:05
        +2

        Lol I realised that was a mistake but it can't be fixed lol. I may have overlooked when creating the poll. Anyway …

  • 2jzzzz on 16/11/2016 - 09:57

    So many better options http://www.carsales.com.au/cars/results?sortby=Year&offset=0…

    • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 10:14
      -1

      I'm yet to find 1 that fits my criteria:
      Must be / have:
      - Alpine White
      - Coupe
      - Low km (less than 40k)
      - DCT (no manual for missus unfortunately)
      - Less than $45k.
      - Front & Rear Sensors

      Preferably be / have:
      - own owner
      - red / brown interior

      • Save Medicare on 16/11/2016 - 15:56
        +1

        How white is alpine white (srs)

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 16:08

          You can call it however you like as long as it is white ^^. It's the name of the colour (unique way to differentiate its colour with other manufacture's white I guess)

        • Save Medicare on 16/11/2016 - 16:10

          @justinvu:

          So you're not looking for anything outside of BMW?

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 16:12

          @tony abbott: I can't seem to find anything that fits within my criteria. Anything does, costs a lot more than my budget.

          Looks like a battle between 135i e82 vs M235i F22

      • cm712 on 16/11/2016 - 16:23

        Please sir do not get a auto
        Teach her how to manual !

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 16:25
          +1

          It's probably easier for me to convince her to buy me a GTR than asking her to learn Manual, honestly ^^

        • cm712 on 16/11/2016 - 18:00

          It make me sick when I hear or see a performance car that is auto
          Shame on you
          Personally I believe their is no point getting a performance auto car

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 18:57
          +1

          @cm712: different strokes for different blokes. But i get ur point. It is valid.

        • John Dough on 18/11/2016 - 07:44

          @cm712:
          A manual performance car isn't an all rounder in the city.
          Some of the quickest cars I have been in are Autos.
          If you are going to track or weekend your car, (too much money to be lurking on OzB) then Manual all the way. Or if you don't live in a major city.
          A 135 Bimmer in Auto would still be a lot of fun, but you can sit on the westgate 'freeway' in traffic and not be bothered….

        • Forskin on 18/11/2016 - 09:19
          +2

          @cm712:
          Mate having a manual car isn't always a viable option.. driving in peak hr traffic every day is a pain in manual regardless if you have a performance engine or not

        • ThadtheChad on 18/11/2016 - 11:20
          +1

          @Forskin:

          I completely agree. It can get really grating when you have congested traffic to the point it takes all the fun out of driving.

  • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 10:13

    I've contacted the owner of this one and will organise an inspection this weekend.

    http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/BMW-135i-2012/SSE…

    He's ok to let go at $40k I think. So $5k difference vs 35k km travelling + performance power kit + all the exterior aesthetic mods @_@

    • John Dough on 18/11/2016 - 07:47

      It's been modded - talk to your insurer, the cost of insuring just doubled. Unless it's a factory option?
      (IMO worth it still as these are absolute weapons standard, and after a tune they are unbelievably quick.)
      Start putting some money away for tyres/fines/impound fees :)

  • esq on 16/11/2016 - 10:24
    +2

    With your strict criteria, just wait till the perfect one comes along.

    Part of your criteria should be perfect mechanical condition though… just spent $6k and 1 month wait on repair of wear and tear on my 07 E92.

    Be prepared to blow money away on this toy, but all cars above a certain price point do become a bottomless pit eventually. Some people buy expensive cameras, some blow money on depreciation, repair and service.

    My mum's 04 Rav4 on the other hand is still going strong with minimal service at 260,000km.

    • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 10:34

      That is why I prefer my friend's car. It's always taken care of, not even driven much yet always serviced at BMW dealer. Given it has such low km, I believe it has a good resale value in 3-4 years time.

      • esq on 16/11/2016 - 11:29
        +3

        Then just buy it mate, you're not going to find a sub-5 second German car at that age for any cheaper. It just comes don to what you want and what you can afford.

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 11:33

          I'm actually selling my car now and will throw the offer at around $42k. Will see how it goes :)

        • esq on 16/11/2016 - 11:50
          +1

          If the N55 is anything like the N54, check the fuel pump and water pump seals often.

        • John Dough on 18/11/2016 - 07:49

          They are not sub 5 seconds standard.

        • esq on 18/11/2016 - 13:28

          @greydaniel: you're right.

          OP did mention PPK stage 2.

        • John Dough on 18/11/2016 - 14:41

          @esq:
          Indeed, not many cars could keep up once these rockets have even the mildest of mods!
          ….provided it's on good tyres, which would be hard to ever have, if I owned one ;)

  • altomic on 16/11/2016 - 10:57
    +1

    $50,000 is a lot of 2008 Camry's.

    • ThadtheChad on 16/11/2016 - 11:20
      +2

      I lol'd.

      That's like comparing a Whopper (Hungry Jacks) to a 24-day dry-aged Black angus in a steak sandwich. :)

      Dayummm, I must be hungry!

      • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 11:28
        +2

        he must be asian :D…just kiddin ^^

      • [Deactivated] on 17/11/2016 - 10:30

        Only a moron would put nice steak In a sandwich.

        • ThadtheChad on 17/11/2016 - 10:46

          Only a moron would put nice steak In a sandwich.

          You hurt my feelings… :(

          Here have a steak.

  • Tech and cars on 16/11/2016 - 12:34
    +7

    My thoughts on the car:

    • M235i is around $52k-60k(some with even less than 20000km's) these days. So 135i for $50k. No way.

    • $39-42k is quite reasonable. Not ripping him, and not ripping you off.

    Are you set on that car?
    -228i's pop up for low 40's very often. In Australia you barely get to use the power of the N55 and the N20-2.0 Turbo, with a stage 1 tune can make similar power to a stock N55. Newer, similar/lower km's, better looking in my opinion. Straight 6 does have a better engine note.

    -Resale considerations.. In about 2 years time, the 1M will be roughly $50k. Your car, with 40 000 km's, worth $35k if you're lucky.
    - A 1m can be bought for $60k… in 2 years time, still worth $50k easily(collectors car). I would rather spend a bit more (if I can), and buy a 1M instead. In the long run, you actually lose much less on depreciation.

    Other considerations:
    You didn't mention the gearbox. I think 2011 these run the BMW DCT's - which are pretty ordinary and have had HEAPS of issues. If it's manual, then great.

    The newer 2 series, 1 series(M135i) gets the ZF-8 Speed Auto - much better gearbox.

    Good luck!

    • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 12:49

      Thank you very much indeed. Very constructive comment I must say.

      I'm currently driving a Golf GTI with 2.0l turbo and wanted a bigger nicer engine noise from a 3.0 twin turbo. Otherwise I would've had some other choices like Audi S3 or Golf Mk7 R which are both great cars to drive (and practical too).

      M135i and M235i are both in my list though M235i is a bit dearer and requires some waiting. I did look at 1M but missus can't drive manual and I need her to be my driver when i'm drunk.

      a Critical Point I want to mention is that the e82 135i uses hydraulic steering which I personally think it is much better and more driver's feel than the now electronic / digital steering from M135i and M235i.

      I know his asking price is a bit high, I just can't seem to resist the rareness and will be happy to pay some extra as the price for my personal taste. Hopefully not too much. I think $40k is a fair price and $42k is the final figure I'd fork out.

      • Tech and cars on 16/11/2016 - 13:16

        No worries. It is always fun discussing cars.

        I'm an Audi/VAG 'fanboy' myself… I've owned an Evo 9 before as my 'raw' car. Like you, I'm now in the same boat where I can only purchase auto cars due to sharing with my significant other.

        In terms of exhaust/engine note. I have a miltek exhaust in my car at the moment (it's a 1.4 TFSI Audi A1 Sport) - it actually sounds quite great. A lot better than most 6's with no exhaust.

        It sounds like you're quite set that this is the car you want. If factors such as Hydraulic steering are playing a role in your decision, and this one really has everything you want, go for it, but try your best to not pay more than $42k.

        If you do change your mind - and go into the VAG group - look at the TT-S as well. It's often forgotten and is a really good car to consider as well.

        135i is a great car and with a lot of 1M parts available these days - you can make it look quite incredible. I guess for you, it really ticks the boxes being auto, E82 shape, and low km's.

        I personally always buy with resale in mind. But sometimes, it's nice to just splurge and get something you enjoy.

        I would advise in getting some form of aftermarket warranty. That BMW DCT is known to have a lot of issues. BMW didn't spend as much money as VAG developing their DCT's. It was very short lived and most of the time they run sports auto gearboxes such as the ZF-8speed.

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 14:20

          Yes, I was looking at TT-S but just can't compare the look. I'm selling my car now so hopefully my friend changes his mind by then, or another car coming up so that I can have an early Xmas present ^^

        • Tech and cars on 16/11/2016 - 14:32
          +3

          @justinvu:

          One thing I did recently notice in myself is that while I have a 'nice car' - I barely take it out to 'nice roads'.

          I went out for a mountain drive with some friends for the first time in months last weekend and it was great.

          This is completely unrelated, but I'm trying hard to focus on what I have and appreciate what I have. While a new car/upgrade would be great, I first want to make sure I'm currently using what I have properly.

          I guess what I'm trying to say is; make sure you take the GTI out for nice drives/on nice roads with friends. Very quickly, - You'll forget about the car you're driving and more focused on how much fun you're having with just being out and about doing car activities with your friends.

      • gezza90 on 23/03/2019 - 11:16

        Teach your wife how to control the stick. :)

  • [Deactivated] on 16/11/2016 - 13:51
    +1

    Cosmetic mods do not add to resale value. Period.

    Performance mods may add value depending on whether it is a reputable mod, or one that contributes to reliability problems.

    Stage 2 cars with low mileage is quite ideal but I still wouldn't pay 50k. A reputable downpipe (like Miltek) would have set him back $2k back then. The tuning would have cost $1-2k depending on the company. I'd probably pay a premium of no more than $2k over market rate of a stock car.

    • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 14:18

      You're right, cosmetics mods only add value for whom are interested.

      The performance mods (stage 2) was actually park of the BMW performance power kit, so they are genuine. And as much as the name sounds, it does not include any intake, downpipe or exhaust etc. It's just marketing from BMW, but it claims 20kw increase from original figure.

      How much would you pay personally, may I ask?

      • [Deactivated] on 16/11/2016 - 14:49
        +1

        Then it is not really stage 2. It's just a performance kit optioned. Stage 2 would utilize high bore and high cell catalyst. From stock to stage 2, the expected power increase would be north of 15%, and torque by 20-30%.

        I'd personally pay $38k as it is stock car (with pretties) but in good condition. It commands the higher end of the valuations but not a cent beyond. Curious which gen GTI are you driving? I did move up from a GTI myself. Like you, I wanted a coupe but I also needed an everyday car. They're opposites so I decided I'd just get another hatchback, and a coupe.

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 15:00

          I figure the car as is, will probably scare my missus to dead so I'd most likely not upgrading any performance.

          I'm driving a 2011 GTI Mk6 adidas limited edition, should be on carsales by the end of the week. Chasing around $25k for it, full options including electric damper but all other bells and whistles like sunroof, leather seats, adaptive xenon headlights and led taillight etc.

          I'm a bit different as my missus and I both work in the CBD and don't drive the car until weekend / evening. So I figure that if I was to have just one car, might as well have a nice car to enjoy. I'm prepared to pay max $42k but $40k is ideal.

        • [Deactivated] on 16/11/2016 - 15:05

          @justinvu:
          Don't let the whole missus thing dampen the fun.

          My wife used to drive a Prius C. Now she drives my Mk7 R stage 2, with VWR track coils, 360mm 6-pot mono BBK, full list of stage 2 mods from VWR… honestly, I've lost track (pun intended).

          She went back to driving her own car (the ol GTI) and reckons it is broken. Her plan to replace her Prius with another one, or with an SUV has long since changed.

          edit - still wants wife to get SUV for fishing gear and towing track car :)

          PS. ever considered a 996 Turbo? Some pop up from 60k now and then. Excellent coupe with hardly any depreciation left in them.

        • chriskq on 16/11/2016 - 15:23

          Same here @tshow. I upgraded from a manual Mk5 GTI to a Mk 7 GTI (auto). I wanted another manual, but like the OP, i need the wifey to prick me up when im drunk :)

          My dad upgraded his 2000 Passat to Mk6 GTI to a Mk7 Golf R - absolutely loves it (he's a big car nut and has done a couple of euro car trip tours inc driving Nuremberg)

          My mum upgrade her 1995 Jetta (badged Vento in Australia) to a 2005 Jetta

          A family of VW's here

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 15:37

          @tshow: well I guess, if my ultimate goal is for my missus to drive a porsche 911 one day, then I should start early haha.

          and yes, my missus came from a Corolla Toyota to a Nissan Skyline 350GT to a Golf GTi. Hopefully she doesn't mind a mildly modded 135i ^^

          Porsche has a relatively high maintenance so I would steer clear from it for the time being, but definitely come to it one day in the future.

        • [Deactivated] on 16/11/2016 - 18:17
          +1

          @justinvu:
          I do my own servicing (out of warranty). It's not much extra to a GTI.

        • [Deactivated] on 16/11/2016 - 18:19

          @chriskq:
          VAG is great for car nuts. Conceptually similar across Skoda to porsche. Once you learn the VAG COM system,you can tinker any of them.

        • [Deactivated] on 17/11/2016 - 10:32
          +3

          @chriskq: He went to Nuremberg? For war crimes trials?

  • useruser on 16/11/2016 - 15:07
    +3

    He may want 50k but the question is would he ever get it? Everyone is telling you to be sensible and stick to facts, like about mods not adding value, and that although it's in good condition there is still a lower ceiling of value due to it's age and model etc.

    Let him sit on it for a while until he see's that it'll never fetch what he's asking, then talk him round into a more reasonable and favorable price. Don't buy it because you got the urge, buy it because it makes sense. The urge will pass..

    • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 15:50
      +1

      I'm sure it will. Right now it is an impulsive purchase. Should put my financial planner hat on, and take away all the emotions before this purchase. haha

      Thanks mate :)

      • YellowDieselGolf on 16/11/2016 - 19:36
        +2

        50k is crazy money when there are three 1Ms on Carsales for < 61k.

        And that's before negotiation.

        I know you want an auto, but 50k is just crazy.

        • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 21:48

          More likely that $45k will be the sale price. I'll be pushing towards $40k.

  • foolsgold on 16/11/2016 - 15:36
    +5

    Hi I own a E82 135i, I presume your talking about the this not a F20 M135i hatch.

    The thing's that make this one stand out from the others is
    - Low KMs
    - Carbon Fibre Spoiler ($500 genuine)
    - Performance Kit

    I think the Performance Exhaust is great, the spoiler is completely up to you. Call up some one who installs genuine exhausts to see how much it would cost to purchase and install, there are after market options but if your into keeping it all factory maybe you should weight this in your purchasing.

    Second is the KMs, the car from a driving perspective is practically brand new, this can be a double edged sword. I have bought a different BMW with 10,000kms at a similar age, out of warranty, so far it has two faults, high beam assist not working and I believe the stereo reception on AM is not working well. Both these faults would have been picked up had it been serviced at the dealer more. But it wasn't driven.

    You too could be stuck with a HPFP, Injector, Waterpump or something else which should have been fixed under a recall at the dealership. But for 2011 I doubt you have any of the injector or HPFP problems in the next 80,000kms.

    So bearing that in mind, the risk is low from mechanical point of view. From a maintenance POV, fluids aren't great sitting in a car, check if the service actually changed the oil or was it just an "inspection".

    I'd strongly recommend changing your oil at least every 10,000 kms and at least annually (what ever comes first), and immediately if you purchase the car. I'm sure you could go by BMW's LL-01 reports that say otherwise but oil is the cheapest preventive maintenance you can do on a BMW.

    Now going to the car.
    Do you like the colour, the options, the interior colour. Because your paying a premium, the highest end of the market. You should be a 100% happy with it.

    Things stand out is no iDrive. Not sure if it has a sunroof or if you want one.
    Me personally I would want iDrive, sunroof, f/r parking sensors, premium sound package for that price.

    My advice, too high.

    Your getting a really good example of a 135i at a very high price.
    But if you go just a tiny bit higher in kms, the price drops significantly.
    So I would look at a higher KM, <35,000 for around 38-42, I wouldn't offer more than 42.

    Either, wait another year you could get a M235i for that price. Spend more, you already can find a M235i for around 55k, and honestly I would rather a M235i with 50,000kms for 10k more than a 5 year old 135i that you probably depreciate it by chucking 10,000kms in a year.

    Don't be pressured, a 50k 5 y.o. BMW aint going anywhere in a hurry.

    • justinvu on 16/11/2016 - 15:46
      +1

      Well said buddy, very well said. Yes, I'm buying a E82 135i coupe.

      Mind you, performance kit doesn't actually include performance exhaust, but it adds nice cooling gadget that supposed to keep the engine cool and 20kw to the car. The car has been service with oil / fluids change as per factory recommendations. So from the mechanical POV, it's flawless (right now). I actually don't like i-drive and has plan to install a garmin GPS with reverse camera on the dash board that looks extremely clean.

      The car comes with all that I love including white color, terra brown leather, harman kardon sound system, sunroof, front & rear sensors. It also has carbon mirrors + carbon diffuser.

      I have to admit that I have that urge kicking inside that I need to take you guys advice to take one step back and relax, to realise that that car isn't going anywhere soon. I actually didn't like the look of a M235i for some reasons, and the hydraulic steering is a deal breaker as I believe this gives the car real sporty feel, unlike the electronic power steering.

      the only consideration for M235i would be nicer interior, but it sure comes at a cost. and to be fair, my friend will take $45k if I offer, I just thought even $45k will still be over-priced. Ideally I'd like to pay $40k, $42k at most.

      • Ashehadeh1 on 17/11/2016 - 11:19

        Hi Mate,

        I wouldn't pay over 35k tbh, you're beter of getting a M135i 2014 for 45k with 20,000km and putting a JB4 ECU upgrade and new exhaust max will cost is 5k. So you'll be looking at 50k, you'll be getting about 380-390 Horsepower and a very nice sounding car that does 0-100 in under 4.8s. Also you may be able to still extend BMW warranty which is a bonus.

  • dogboy on 16/11/2016 - 18:15
    +3

    I started looking at BMWs but the number of different models alone turned me off. I have never seen so many models or variants for any car manufacturer - it is overwhelming to say the least.

    • ccrap on 18/11/2016 - 08:39

      lol don't look at Mercedes then

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