[steph.uk]

Hi all

Not posting very often on here, but reading it most of the time though

Got a coupe 325d Manual and I am looking for a coupe 330d Auto.

I have seen two cars around my area:
http://www.bmw.co.uk/bmwuk/auc/car_d...WA92060E206044

Second car has been sold already....

I got a couple of questions there:

1. Is there a big difference between the 325d and 330d (this is the latest 330d version I am looking at) - Of course not talking about the auto vs manual as this is I guess purely down to preferences
2. What room for negotiation for both car? I think the second car, new but registered is well overpriced, but that's my opinion.

I've had my car for nearly 2 years now, fancy a change but don't want to spend a fortune in it if you know what I mean...

Steph

[SteveC]

I wouldn't buy a BMW without Xenon lights as the standard candles are simply hopeless and make rapid progress on dark evenings a high risk proposition and on dark, wet evenings impossible. Standard lights really are a major performance limiting factor

Second, the AT version of the 330d feels a lot less rapid and immediate than the MT. While actual performance may be similar, I perceive the AT as having a lot less power. There's a slight hesitation at pull away, throttle roll on and flat out acceleration that feels like turbo lag but is in fact due to the AT.

For the maximum Freude am fahren on UK roads, I would would look for an MT with Visibility Package but of course not everyone drives like me.

[Dr Dave]

I'd have liked the visibilty pack but you can't be too choosy - I certainly don't think the standard lamps can be deemed hopeless!

[steph.uk]

Originally Posted by SteveC

I wouldn't buy a BMW without Xenon lights as the standard candles are simply hopeless and make rapid progress on dark evenings a high risk proposition and on dark, wet evenings impossible. Standard lights really are a major performance limiting factor
.

Thanks SteveC

As I am looking for a coupe, Xenon lights are part of the package.

RE the Auto vs MT, I thought that as you have the paddles on the steering, you could gear down or up if needed, that way overcoming the lag from the AT.

Steph

[TMP]

Originally Posted by steph.uk

Thanks SteveC

As I am looking for a coupe, Xenon lights are part of the package.

RE the Auto vs MT, I thought that as you have the paddles on the steering, you could gear down or up if needed, that way overcoming the lag from the AT.

Steph

On the ED auto's I actually think they are just as good as a MT - little or no lag and yes paddles very quick to change. in a straight line, my money in on the Auto over the MT.

[willhollin]

Manual should be more powerful seeing as there isn't such a loss of power through through the gearbox. Auto would probably be the sensible choice though.

[alcook]

I'd be surprised if there was any noticeable difference in wheel horse power between the two as I believe the AT is very efficient.

Anyone have any RR results to show?

[paul_in_Norfolk]

Manual is only 0.1 of a second quicker 0-60 than the auto.

[gspannu]

Originally Posted by steph.uk

Hi all
1. Is there a big difference between the 325d and 330d (this is the latest 330d version I am looking at) - Of course not talking about the auto vs manual as this is I guess purely down to preferences
2. What room for negotiation for both car? I think the second car, new but registered is well overpriced, but that's my opinion.

1. I have just bought a 330D Coupe [2009 model, 245hp, Auto], I owned a 325 before, and the difference is noticeable. The auto is smooth and the power delivery constant. I would definitely recommend the auto as the huge torque of the diesel makes it slightly difficult to handle the manual gear shifts (it becomes almost an art at lo revs between 1st & 2nd)

2. Negotiation on new cars should be immense. FYI: I got 14% off the brochure price in May 2009; this was on net total of base price + factory fit accessories. Most web site dealers/ brokers were not offering more han 10-11%, but I haggled for a week and got the deal.

[steph.uk]

Thanks all

I might go for a new car instead of a used one as the discount at present are quite good. DTD discount for the spec I like is £7k, although the dealer might not match it....

I wonder why BMW gives such a heavy discount on the coupe (£2k).... is the facelift around the corner Have no heard anything though

[rogerxp]

Originally Posted by gspannu

I would definitely recommend the auto as the huge torque of the diesel makes it slightly difficult to handle the manual gear shifts (it becomes almost an art at lo revs between 1st & 2nd).

I'd challange this statement to be honest. Mine's a manual and I feel its the best way to make the most of the power on tap.

I drive the Beemer a little less these days since giving it to my wife but I took it out this weekend and was reminded how powerful it is and the manual box allows you to hold the power when you need it.

I'd say manual over auto every day but it's purely down to personal choice. Try to drive both if you can before making a decision (but manual 330d's are harder to track down). Depends of course how you drive too.

[hmi1750]

I have an auto and 95% its great all rounder.. sometimes i wish i had a manual for the extra control of either being in a higher gear (as there is enough torque) or being lower gear or changing gear suddenly, where the auto can take its time etc.

But I do use steptronic for some fun and mostly leave it in D and enjoy the comfy casual cruising but the auto in town does drink more than a manual version.