I've had a few relatives that owned BMW's, and they all had failures of some sort. My favorite failure was the one time that the driver's seat just started reclining back while my uncle was driving, and it wouldn't come back up. Cost him about $1000 or so to fix. This was in the mid 90's, so maybe BMW quality has gotten better since.

That said, I think the BMW is probably more of a driver's car than the IS.

 

Not so much into the volvo... I just couldn't do it. I looked into the G35, but I just don't like the style as much on the sedan as I do these sedans. I do like the G35 coupe styling though... just not into the coupe. lol

See sig, James.

Ima make a poll. h:

 

Poll added

 

Now you will finally be able to decide which car to buy without thinking twice h:

 

Haha.. it's good to get advice now and then. I hadn't considered the 325 until recently and it's really changed my viewpoint. I'm headed to the stealership now. I'll post results later.

 

Inquire about the price of their 51k mile maintenance :happysad:

If you get a chance, test drive the older style 5-series...I had the pleasure of driving a 530i 6-speed a few months back and I was amazed at how nice the car was in all aspects.

 

new BMW 3 series styling = :barf:

 

If it were my money:

* I'd favor the IS300, out of the 2 cars listed. The new 3 is so hideous, I personally can't stand to look at it.

* I'd also look at the Certified Pre-Owned IS300s. Who knows, you might find a low-miileage lease return and save yourself a couple thousand dollars.

* Ultimately, though, the new IS350 would be my ideal candidate. It has a sculptural beauty that makes the new 3 look clumsy and half-assed.

 

they do everything for free. wiper blades, brake pads, clutch. the whole shebang. but that's not part of the basic warranty, all those listed above are covered by the maintenance contract and yes that also covers oil services.

 

btw i voted for the 325i. i would buy one if i didn't already have the 330i.