2005 BMW 325ci Conv E46

[Deepak Stevens 3]

Hi All,

Looking at buying a 325 convertible soon. This model has been well taken care of and serviced at BM works in Grey Lynn for a few years.

Drives really well and aside from some cosmetic issues seems like a nice car to have with summer around the corner. I spoke to the mechanic at BM works with the owners permission and the staff from BM works mentioned it has been well taken care of and anytime there has been issues the owner has taken care of it. There is one outstanding issue that he did mention which is the "sump weeping" this would need to be taken care of before it gets worse. Approx cost mentioned to fix is around $650. 

What I would like to know is for a car that has driven around 134kms so far what you think is a good price for the vehicle and also is there anything I need to be vary of with these models? Specifically the convertibles.

 

Thanks

[Sammo 2479]

Value depends on colour / interior / condition and if Msport or not. Mileage less important than condition and maintenance.

I'm guessing its the black 2005 facelift on TM though? EDIT - if it is, that car appears to have most common failure points already sorted and if you don't mind the facelift look or interior colour looks to be a well looked after car.

They are good cars, reliable by BMW standards and the convertibles are supposedly less prone to the achilles heel subframe issues. Budget to get the cooling system refreshed if there isn't evidence of it being done preventatively - common failure points are waterpumps / expansion tanks and overheating has disastrous results.

Otherwise minor oil leaks are pretty common but not hard to fix.

My advice however is to get a 330ci.

Quite a bit more power (which you will want in a heavy, auto convertible) and won't really be any worse on fuel.

Some decent looking ones available in AKL now as well.

https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/motors/cars/bmw/listing/2802642639?bof=K9OuyeuO

https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/motors/cars/bmw/listing/2802642893?bof=bxTkPxEh

Edited October 6, 2020 by Sammo

[Deepak Stevens 3]

Hi Sam,

 

Thanks for your response.

It is indeed the black model on TM. I am a BMW novice so not sure what the "facelift" term means sorry. I really like the interior colour compared to the black leather most others come in. In regards to price what would you think is a good price to stop at in bidding?

Appreciate your feedback.

[Sammo 2479]

Main difference with Facelift is the updated front and rear headlights.

If you like the look and don't mind the smaller engine, it looks like a well maintained example, late model, (for an E46) with low kms - I would offer him $7-7500 and see how you go?

As it hasn't hit reserve the auction isn't 'live' yet?

[Deepak Stevens 3]

Hi Sam,

Thanks for the feedback. I believe the seller wants the auction to run.

If the auction runs its course and on the off chance the bidding goes crazy what do you think is the maximum I should bid on this?

 

[Sammo 2479]

Not sure to be honest - older BMWs values are hard to pin down - usually comes down to how much the buyer wants it.

On one hand it's a late model facelift with low km and good service history.

On the other hand it's not a sport model and the 2.5 is the less desirable motor (still reliable and sounds good though) and the interior won't be for everyone.

Up to you and your budget - don't see it being worth more than $8k though - if it sells there are quite a few nice looking E46 convertibles about, and will be more coming toward summer.

[Deepak Stevens 3]

Awesome! thanks Sam

[qube 3568]

Although it looks like a nicely maintained example its definitely not a desirable spec so there is only value for someone who really wants a vert with tan interior (not many).

If YOU like the car and if YOU are happy to pay $9000 and are aware that these cars are not cheap to run (budget $2000 or so per year to maintain properly), then it doesnt really matter what we or others think, as long as you are happy with it.