I looked at them and the interior felt like it was from the 90's. I went with the Mercedes and yes its way slower but also way nicer. Wifes car so speed is not an issue. Enjoy.

 

I really like the interior. It has a timeless appearance with elements from previous generations. I thought the Audi felt at home coming from VW's in the past. (TOL VW's have really nice interiors) The Lexus IS was awesome, but looks like it will date itself. I didn't even consider a MB because I'm to young and had a very bad impression of them when they had a driving event a few years back. (wife's S40 was much more fun to drive then then the C class they had at the time)

I bought the 335i because I liked driving it and love the looks of it. The power is overrated for 99% of road driving, but it is nice to know that it is there if you need it. The power out weighed AWD in the end. It made me pass up the 328xi I was there to look at. Damn sales man said you have to drive the 335i. I told him I didn't want to because I would not be able to go with 328xi if I drove it. I came back 2 days later and drove it and bought it on the spot.

 

I really, really wanted to like the BMW. I was already planning to chip it. It just was not there for me. The wife loved the Merc and that was it for me. If I want to drive fast I have my Tarilblazer but for cruising a long haul the Merc wins. Keep in mind when I say the BMW felt outdated it was up against brand new A4 and C300 for me. 3 way different cars.

 

We got a 2005.5 3.2 sedan with 19K miles for $21.5K. Sport and cold weather package, full size spare. It might take time, but you should be able to find a better deal. The 3.2 has plenty of power if you don't plan on modding at all. It's a lot of fun to drive. Good luck with your search!

 

That was a great deal. I would have bought a 3.2 a month ago if it wouldn't have sold before I could see it.

 

I realized after driving one I was compromising with what my wife would like. If it was her call it was A4 or Lexus IS. Both are nice as hell. I just loved the way the BMW drives. It certainly isn't for everyone. I'm actually suprised how many people buy them when an Audi or Lexus would have seem to have been a better fit.

 

That low mileage is awesome but the $21,500 makes my butt pucker! I bought my 05.5 2.0T 6MT quattro with 100k miles for $8200. Sure, I'll have to put in $$ for maintenance, but I'm OK with that deal, and as long as you are too, that's all that matters. Congrats!

 

There is more to a car then mileage. I'm sure his was in mint condition. It is also nice he scored a 3.2L.

 

Since you have the option, look for a 2009 model within your price range. Definitely worth the investment and it will still be in warranty range. 211 hp for the 2.0T and better fuel economy adds up in the long run. I do however prefer the structured interior of the 2008- models. It seems like the material quality is so much better and beefier, but that's just a personal preference.