[DriverX]

whats up people, found these forums to be better than others that I was browsing thru and decided to join. Im posting in the regional forums since I need some advise on two cars and I was concerned about New England weather (even tho this winter dint really feel like winter..)

I torn between a 2006 328Xi and a 2006 330i/Xi.

Is AWD a must? I currently commute to work alot but picked up some extra work at another office for the summer which is about 18 miles from home (but only have to go there 4 times a week, and its in the summer but could extend to winter months). Anyway, my concern is the winter weather I should avoid a non-AWD model? Also heard terrible things about Run Flats and that I should pretty much stay away from them specially with low tire thread.

I currently own a 2004 G35 coupe and its lowered on springs and I haven't had any issues really (some occasional wheel spin but nothing serious) in the winter (and i have all season tires on that car!). Looking to sell this car in the coming months.

I already know about the maintenance thing since i have been doing alot of research, basically Maintenance is the key with these cars. The 328 or 330 that I get must have the Sport Package with a manual tranny.

Anyone could give some feedback as to how their experince with either a AWD or RWD model has been up here in the Northeast? Thanks!

[virtualbong]

If you can handle the winters here in a G35 coupe then you will be fine with the 330i...it will be even better than the G35 coupe in the winter with snow tires.

[E36graduate]

My 450 hp Xi is fine in the snow with all season radials. In fact I've driven BMW's in MA for over 12 years and never really had much issues.....just don't be going out in 6" plus of snow on the road and you should be okay. My E46 M3 was purchased and drove home 60+ miles in a snow storm....that was scary...

[DriverX]

Thank You guys, i figured I would be fine as I been good with the G35. Now i start my search for the right car....found a few so far at decent prices.

I heard that its best to have a PPI done with these cars. The car will be purchased privately and i will be paying cash for it since I hate financing. Im looking to spend no more than 14.5 k for one and I found many for less than that with good miles (good meaning less than 74k miles).

How do i go about doing a PPI? With all my previous cars i pretty much did my own inspections and knew what to look at but this being my first Bimmer I really want to make sure everything is good to go (leaks, ect).

[ska325xi]

there's no 2006 328...they started in 07

the 07 is a little more reliable but the 330 have more HP

[DriverX]

^ sorry, your right, meant 325 not 328 like i said in the beginning

[E36graduate]

find out where your cars are located and find a local fanatic that knows his stuff and pay that person to go check it out......

[DriverX]

That's a good idea E36graduate