Daniel

Unfortunately I haven't owned or driven one (yet), but those V50 models have caught my eye too. My 2 cents is that if I buy one, I'll be buying the T5. If you decide to buy a T5, try to find an AWD one, as they came in FWD too, HTH.

He's selling after four months of ownership though? Slightly suspicious methinks

Haha don't worry, I wasn't looking to buy, just looking.

that's certainly good to know. While that might make a potential buyer a little more hesitant, it would surely give them faith in your verdict

Hmm yea you are probably right; it has M3 style mirrors too, so a previous owner was likely into aesthetic mods

This caught my eye... interesting.. it's an e46 325ci manufactured December 2003. This might be really obvious to some of you, but I was wondering why this particular model has the "M" dash, and an "M" on the NZ New plates? I'm pretty sure I haven't seen that before. http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/used-cars/bmw/auction-1339467864.htm

Yeah I'm a fan of the grille as well. Would probably be a little more subtle in black

I think it looks like a great (white?) shark on wheels. And I like it. V12? If I ever see one in my rear view mirror, I might just move over for fear of being eaten. Whole.

Thanks Olaf, certainly does help. I agree the price for both vehicles is too high; I would've tried to negotiate a fair bit. I'd be lying if I said I didn't throw that 530i an admiring glance every so often, but I am quite set on a 3 series as the size and feel would suit me better. I'll certainly keep those two sedans in mind, they both seem good options and reasonably priced. I've been quite smitten with the touring version now, since taking a ride in one the other day. Like this: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/used-cars/bmw/auction-1325805882.htm Unfortunately, the vendor being who it is automatically means it's priced too high. Appreciate the comments, helps to put it in perspective.

well said sir: " You try and find another, NZ new and low km! "

Thanks for the follow up Pete but I'm afraid I couldn't commit at this stage.

Okay, so lately I've been spending a pretty decent amount of my time looking for a car on Trade me. I haven't owned a car in approximately three years, as I sold my 96 Diamante when I went to study. I knew I didn't have the resources to upkeep my car at that point, and taking the train was a better option. Now that I'm in a position to buy a vehicle again, I've been pretty set on buying a BMW 3 series or Mercedes C Class (don't shoot). I don't know very much about cars in general, so was hoping to get some advice from you guys... (I've already learned a fair bit from these forums). I'm currently considering this for a purchase: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/used-cars/bmw/auction-1328739915.htm and this as a second choice: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/used-cars/bmw/auction-1328243693.htm The wagon is pretty much exactly what I've been looking for, minus the facts he only has service history for the last two services and it's an import. It would seem that he has replaced or repaired most of the things that would need doing, and from the way he's written the list I feel fairly good about it. I guess I was wondering whether there was anything more that I should specifically ask? Might have to get a PPI. Apologies for the long winded way of asking opinions and advices. I'd like to own my next car hopefully for years, so I wanna get it right. I am aware that every car will have it's issues and maintenance needs, so don't worry about me expecting to find my Perfect BM Cheers

yeah I'd certainly be negotiating the price, as you say That second one has a rather dodgy km history according to basic carjam. Those fears could possibly be settled by the service history though. Exceptionally nice looker, LOVE the paint.

Has the clock spring click re-occurred at all?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/used-cars/bmw/auction-1320168923.htm 160k, NZ New, that shape, and a full BM history. I find this extremely tempting... Three times a day for the last five, I tell myself I should but I shouldn't.

I've heard a couple of similar stories where Trademe has gone to the party who defaulted and informed them they can't be doing that, or something similar. The more stories like this we hear, the less we trust their auction systems.. which they want to avoid so they can preserve their integrity and customer base

If I were you, I'd definitely complain to Trademe, or consult Citizens Advice Bureau. I believe that if yours is the highest bid in an auction (where the reserve has been met) the current owner is legally obliged to sell to you for the price of that bid. As far as I'm aware you definitely have a leg to stand on, although I'd be unsure what specific recourse is available to you. Just my 2 cents

Hey people, Just thought I'd make a little post to introduce myself as a new member in Wellington. I don't currently own a BM, but am hoping to pick up an E46 330 coupe or sedan in the near future. Figured I might as well join as I've already been browsing the forums to glean knowledge... Hopefully I'll be able to take part in a road trip too in the near future!