Trade CL9 Accord Euro for E90 320i?

[Kevl]

Hey Guys,

Purchased a 2006 (Facelift) Honda Accord Euro around three months ago.

Now one of our relatives are trading in their 2005 e90 BMW 320i and we are considering buying from them as the dealer is offering them a ridiculously low price.

If we buy the 320i and sell the Accord we will probably have $1000 or $2000 to spare aswell.

Things I like about the Accord;

Feels "bunkered down" when driving, very stable
Adequate amount of power, never really feels lacking and is pretty responsive
Really like the look of the car
Has a quality premium feel to the car
And many more.

I do however have two main gripes with the car;

Poor Fuel Economy, I get round 12-13L / 100KM (around 70/30 city highway split)
Poor visibility, I find the car really hard to park, especially parallel park due to the high boot / beltline of the car. Also its difficult to judge how far the wheel is from the curb from the side mirrors unlike my previous car which I could fit into the smallest spots.
Overall I am happy with the car (fuel economy aside) but after owning the car for longer now I feel like the BMW could be a nice upgrade.

I have driven the BMW a few times and drives well. Didn't used to like the heavy steering but the euro also has heavy steering and now that I'm used to it I like it (drove my parents Rav4 and the steering just felt way too light)

Things I like about the BMW

Looks
More prestige as a BMW (though not hugely important)
More features, this ones pretty loaded, has cornering xenons, leather, upgraded wheels, parking sensors etc.... whereas my accord euro is the non L model.
Main worry is the reliability of the car, our relative has had a couple of things go wrong (power steering pump and something else, around $2,000 per repair). That is alot of money.

Any opinions would appreciated on whether to trade or not :)

Would love to know opinions from people who have owned a 320i or know people who have owned one for a while as I have noticed that impressions of cars change dramatically (at least for me) when u actually own a car vs. just a test drive.

Thanks in advance :)

[Lazarus]

What if you do a short time swap?
Like give the 320i a good week/fortnight worth? Just to get a better feel in the long run?
Although imo 320i is a very nice upgrade + the extra cash can always come in handy.

Damn, tough choice!

[trism]

yep, you hit the nail on the head. Parts and repair costs on the BMW are going to be triple what they are on the accord. That alone is enough reason to not buy it.

[Kevl]

What if you do a short time swap?
Like give the 320i a good week/fortnight worth? Just to get a better feel in the long run?
Although imo 320i is a very nice upgrade + the extra cash can always come in handy.

Damn, tough choice!

That's a good idea! Would love to try it for a couple of weeks. Don't think the relatives will be too keen though (uncle is bit weird about this stuff) but two weeks would definitely help make the decision.


yep, you hit the nail on the head. Parts and repair costs on the BMW are going to be triple what they are on the accord. That alone is enough reason to not buy it.

Yea, that is very true. But you always think you won't be the one which is rarely the case.

If we get it we will get a mechanical warranty (which is still an extra expense). Funny thing is would be much cheaper to service the BMW though because there are independent BMW specialists but no independent dealers who just specialise in Hondas (least in Auckland).

Any idea of the fuel economy / performance of 320i vs Euro?

[Fredoops]

Yea, that is very true. But you always think you won't be the one which is rarely the case.

If we get it we will get a mechanical warranty (which is still an extra expense). Funny thing is would be much cheaper to service the BMW though because there are independent BMW specialists but no independent dealers who just specialise in Hondas (least in Auckland).

Any idea of the fuel economy / performance of 320i vs Euro?

Thats the thing tho, in Kiwi-land it'll most likely be cheaper to service and repair a BMW (at least labor) than a Honda........
And you can always source parts from USA, in which case the price difference in parts is.... negligible.

Economy wise they'd be about the same, BMW might be slightly better due to smaller engine and VANOS (think continuously variable VTEC).
Performance wise, 320 will be slower in a straight line but since its RWD it'll be better in the corners.

[antony]

KEEP THE EURO.

We have had 5 BMW s in the family,a few 320is,and they become very niggly,and expensive to maintain after 5-6 years.

We have swopped to Hondas,and could not be happier.

The Euro will outlast a BMW,THE 3 SERIES IS BUILT IN sOUTH aFRICA,THE eURO IN jAPAN,AND THE QUALITY OF THE eURO IS FAR BETTTER.

Euro will easily do 300 000 kilometers without much difficuilty,the 320 might also,but is a far more complex car,and will require far more maintenance.

If it was me,I would stay FAR away from the Bee Em,honestly.

[tony1234]

yep, you hit the nail on the head. Parts and repair costs on the BMW are going to be triple what they are on the accord. That alone is enough reason to not buy it.

^^^^Agreed.

[Fredoops]

Kevl, you're asking on Honda forum on whether to ditch the Honda for something else.

I think we'd all be biased like hell, everyone will be banging on about 'costs'...

Fact is, we dont know how much you earn or your financial position, you might well be able to afford the difference in cost (if there is any.... I was surprised how stupid Honda servicing costs are in New Zealand...)
Also, E90 is a LOT more reliable than the previous gen E46, and the 3 series in general is a lot less niggly than the 5 or 7 series.

do a swap, try it out, get some prices on key parts. and then make your own decision

[Kevl]

Kevl, you're asking on Honda forum on whether to ditch the Honda for something else.

I think we'd all be biased like hell, everyone will be banging on about 'costs'...

Fact is, we dont know how much you earn or your financial position, you might well be able to afford the difference in cost (if there is any.... I was surprised how stupid Honda servicing costs are in New Zealand...)
Also, E90 is a LOT more reliable than the previous gen E46, and the 3 series in general is a lot less niggly than the 5 or 7 series.

do a swap, try it out, get some prices on key parts. and then make your own decision

Fredoops, You're right in that there would be some bias. Thought there would be some people who would give a balanced view though (like yourself)

Yea they are ridiculous. We had it serviced at Honda when we first bought the car (was due for a service) and it was $700 for routine maintenance! and I left a couple of items off the 'recommended' list (which would have bought the bill to $1000!).

One of the items recommended to be replaced was the fuel filter, doesn't the Euro have a fuel filter which lasts the life of the car?

We're still waiting on whether our relative is going to trade in their car or not but looks like we will give it a go if they do. Might change our other car instead of the Euro (02 Rav4).

[Adrian128]

Buy the BMW and some good tools (if you don't have them yet)..and try to get hold of a BMW service manual for that car.. parts are not overly expensive if you know where to buy them. Replacing parts are easy, most can be DIY. Only take it to the specialists for the major stuff. :)

[Kevl]

Buy the BMW and some good tools (if you don't have them yet)..and try to get hold of a BMW service manual for that car.. parts are not overly expensive if you know where to buy them. Replacing parts are easy, most can be DIY. Only take it to the specialists for the major stuff. :)

I know a fair bit about cars but have never actually touched anything mechanically lol (which I guess means I don't know that much), but luckily there is a cheap bmw specialist nearby where I live :)

[I CU2]

Base German cars are only bought because of the badge status, well that's what I think when I see one on the road. They aint foolin anybody.

[Kevl]

Base German cars are only bought because of the badge status, well that's what I think when I see one on the road. They aint foolin anybody.

Wouldn't say this is a base model (its not on small wheels with minimal features) and the 3-series has always had a good rep, especially for handling. Aren't many rear wheel drive mid-size cars that aren't from the luxury car makers.

[Fredoops]

Base German cars are only bought because of the badge status, well that's what I think when I see one on the road. They aint foolin anybody.
Status... What you said can be said about us who buy Honda's over Toyotas............
Or people who buy Audi's over VW's
Or people who buy Lexus IS200's


Look base German cars exist because they are base executive company vehicles... in Europe. Just because it's got a small engine, doesn't mean it's the base model, not everyone's power whore. The 2.0L I4 is more than adequate for city driving. You go find another European mid-size thats not FWD or AWD thats not a BMW 3 or a Merc C, go on... I'll wait.

For Australia you cant get a base model (Unless you are willing to wait for 6-8 month for a custom order form where ever it's made from, and dealer will refuse to negotiate a "base model"), the lowest model 3 BMW stock in Australia is the Innovation pack, which contains all the mod-cons to make it a rather luxurious vehicle matching if not bettering the CU2.

[I CU2]

Mercedes E class is the standard German taxi and the C class is for executives over there...?

You buy the car for the badge more than anything else. It wasn't that long ago when a M-B C180 came standard plastic hubcaps, wind-your-own rear windows, optional dead cow and no CD player. The BMW 318i was about the same.

[Fredoops]

Mercedes E class is the standard German taxi and the C class is for executives over there...?

You buy the car for the badge more than anything else. It wasn't that long ago when a M-B C180 came standard plastic hubcaps, wind-your-own rear windows, optional dead cow and no CD player. The BMW 318i was about the same.
look up "Mittelklasse" or http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_executive_car

[I CU2]

look up "Mittelklasse" or http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compact_executive_car

"the nameplate itself is part of the value proposition".

Though, it's probably the 320i drivers I see on the road who de-badge their cars and stick a M3 badge onto it instead who are the real badge wannabes.

[Fredoops]

"the nameplate itself is part of the value proposition".

Though, it's probably the 320i drivers I see on the road who de-badge their cars and stick a M3 badge onto it instead who are the real badge wannabes.

How is that any worse than people sticking type R badges on their honda's?

[I CU2]

How is that any worse than people sticking type R badges on their honda's?

They're badge wannabes too.

[Fredoops]

They're badge wannabes too.

Exactly, every brand has those type of "fanboys". You cant discredit a vehicle just because of a few idiots can we?

Some times it's also a financial choice, BMW finance had done a very good job on packaging the deal with it's guaranteed trade-in etc. So if you are looking at either a leased or company car, a 3 series is probably a better deal financially compared to say.. A top of range v6 accord.

Also, on other parst of the world, it's cheaper to buy a BMW 3 than an accord euro outright, just pick up a UK version of Top Gear mag and you'll see what I mean.

[I CU2]

Some times it's also a financial choice, BMW finance had done a very good job on packaging the deal with it's guaranteed trade-in etc. So if you are looking at either a leased or company car, a 3 series is probably a better deal financially compared to say.. A top of range v6 accord.

A lot of people buy BMW's on finance these days, it's fine if you pay it off but watch out if you don't! I think it's these people who try to live above their means.

http://www.news.com.au/money/money-matters/luxury-bmws-a-debt-trap/story-e6frfmd9-1226008825157#ixzz1ERvrOiK6

[djpro1]

The Euro can Vtec, the BMW cannot.

1:0

:D

[Fredoops]

The Euro can Vtec, the BMW cannot.

1:0

:D

BMW has VANOS.... which is a Continously Variable VTEC.

[jzx_andy]

get the BMW, you should have bought a luxury accord to begin with then you would not be having this dilemma ;)

[antony]

Depends which luxury Accord you are talking about...

The Euro is IMHO a far more desirable car than the normal daggy old mans Accord...

[Kevl]

get the BMW, you should have bought a luxury accord to begin with then you would not be having this dilemma ;)

Haha yea, after seeing more of the BMW the look has really grown on me and I really like it.


Depends which luxury Accord you are talking about...

The Euro is IMHO a far more desirable car than the normal daggy old mans Accord...

By luxury I mean Accord Euro Luxury

[aaronng]

I reckon, go for a ride or spin in that 320i and then decide. We each have our own opinion and it is different to your likes and dislikes.

[tron07]

Poor Fuel Economy, I get round 12-13L / 100KM (around 70/30 city highway split)


I wonder how you drive, I do city almost 90% and I get like less or around 11.6l/100km

[Rudy]

Depends which luxury Accord you are talking about...

The Euro is IMHO a far more desirable car than the normal daggy old mans Accord...

IMO, they are both bloated pigs but one is under-powered, has become transformer-ish looking, and has less room inside despite being huge.

[Adrian128]

IMO, they are both bloated pigs but one is under-powered, has become transformer-ish looking, and has less room inside despite being huge.

And the other one is a BMW.

[imprezu]

get a EVO 8 :D

[Kevl]

I wonder how you drive, I do city almost 90% and I get like less or around 11.6l/100km

I'll admit I don't drive with much fuel economy in mind but that's still very high. I think its because I do a lot of small trips? (less than 10mins) How do you drive?


IMO, they are both bloated pigs but one is under-powered, has become transformer-ish looking, and has less room inside despite being huge.

The back seat is suprisingly small for a large car. Though most people who have sat in the back of my car have said it was spacious (and I'm pretty tall).

[jono_l]

I'll admit I don't drive with much fuel economy in mind but that's still very high. I think its because I do a lot of small trips? (less than 10mins) How do you drive?

You're not the only one - I'm getting similar figures from mine (between 12 and 13 L/100km), where most of the trips I make in the car are either short (5-10 mins), or made in bumper to bumper traffic averaging less than 20km/h.

I used to drive long distances for work (~ 130km per day, approx 50% of that at 100km/h+) I was able to get an average fuel economy around the 10L/100km mark. Would've been even better had I not been stuck in bumper to bumper traffic for the other 50% of my time not spent at 100km/h+!

[Kevl]

You're not the only one - I'm getting similar figures from mine (between 12 and 13 L/100km), where most of the trips I make in the car are either short (5-10 mins), or made in bumper to bumper traffic averaging less than 20km/h.

I used to drive long distances for work (~ 130km per day, approx 50% of that at 100km/h+) I was able to get an average fuel economy around the 10L/100km mark. Would've been even better had I not been stuck in bumper to bumper traffic for the other 50% of my time not spent at 100km/h+!

Oh so it's not only me. Seemed like so many members were getting 10L/100km or under on this forum, even with alot of city driving.

[CU2 Euro 09]

It seems from most of your comments that you're looking for someone to convince you that you are making the right decision in getting the BMW. Doesn't seem to be a hard one to figure out that its the one you want. Go get the 320i and be done with it.

[Kevl]

It seems from most of your comments that you're looking for someone to convince you that you are making the right decision in getting the BMW. Doesn't seem to be a hard one to figure out that its the one you want. Go get the 320i and be done with it.

I do really like the 320i but thats not the case. Mostly because some people on the forum (I guess this is a Honda forum) only mention good things about the Euro but don't really say why it is better than the BMW (obviously not everyone) which leads me to say positive things about the BMW to balance it out.

We are pretty much going to get it now, just waiting on whether relative trades in or not. They are still deciding

[I CU2]

People on whirlpool told you to keep the Euro as well.

[Fredoops]

People on whirlpool told you to keep the Euro as well.

Thy obviously never serviced a Honda in new Zealand :-/

[I CU2]

Thy obviously never serviced a Honda in new Zealand :-/

True, by the time the BMW breaks savings from servicing on the Honda would cancel out getting the BMW's electronics fixed.

[Kevl]

Thy obviously never serviced a Honda in new Zealand :-/

Yup lol, did you live in NZ at some point?


True, by the time the BMW breaks savings from servicing on the Honda would cancel out getting the BMW's electronics fixed.

Yea, that is true. From people who have owned them, some have no problems, whereas some have a lot. Really seems to be a "did you get a good one or not?".

Looks like we will get the BMW, our relative seems more undecided as to whether to trade now so if she does, we will buy it.

[Fredoops]

Yup lol, did you live in NZ at some point?


Ex in-laws..... Nothing better than a old man bitching about a Honda service for 4 hours straight at a family BBQ....
Beers were involved.

[[SDCTVE]]

Because u have the standard Euro, I'm gonna say go for the BMW cos it seems you like the perks and gadgets of the BMW. if you had a Euro luxury on the other hand I'd definitely keep that! my GF has the 2005 E90 320i (auto), I drive it fairly often, but I find it so sluggish coming out of the Euro! fuel economy isn't heaps better than the euro anyway! she averages 10L/100kms
The Euro just feels like a better all rounder!..... If I were you I'd sell your car, but not for the BMW, for a Euro Luxury :p

[antony]

;3060404']Because u have the standard Euro, I'm gonna say go for the BMW cos it seems you like the perks and gadgets of the BMW. if you had a Euro luxury on the other hand I'd definitely keep that! my GF has the 2005 E90 320i (auto), I drive it fairly often, but I find it so sluggish coming out of the Euro! fuel economy isn't heaps better than the euro anyway! she averages 10L/100kms
The Euro just feels like a better all rounder!..... If I were you I'd sell your car, but not for the BMW, for a Euro Luxury :p

Someone is making a lot of sense...

[[SDCTVE]]

Someone is making a lot of sense...

Refer to my first sentence!

[antony]

I know,thats why I agree with you,except either way the Euro is better than the BM...

[Kevl]

Ex in-laws..... Nothing better than a old man bitching about a Honda service for 4 hours straight at a family BBQ....
Beers were involved.

Lol sounds like fun.......


;3060404']Because u have the standard Euro, I'm gonna say go for the BMW cos it seems you like the perks and gadgets of the BMW. if you had a Euro luxury on the other hand I'd definitely keep that! my GF has the 2005 E90 320i (auto), I drive it fairly often, but I find it so sluggish coming out of the Euro! fuel economy isn't heaps better than the euro anyway! she averages 10L/100kms
The Euro just feels like a better all rounder!..... If I were you I'd sell your car, but not for the BMW, for a Euro Luxury :p

Yea, I do like to have more features, main features I want are leather, HIDs and mp3 connection (which the Euro Luxury has 2/3 of and can get the mp3 connection aftermarket).

Do you have a manual or auto euro btw?

[EuroZed]

really interesting sceanrio you are in..........
I actually traded my 2006 e90 320i for an Accord Euro
two reasons for it, i was getting back all my money i bought the beamer for and i had 3 issues that if they came back would be expensive to fix if they did happen, what made me sad was the car only had done 36k kms, and already played up a little, other than that i found not enough power some times, but loved the car totally, it had such a nice finish and feel of things and quality of parts was very high, just not reliable i guess? so went with Euro with a heavy heart that i may miss the bmw alot (which i do) but the power on the Euro is amazing compared to the 320i, its more refined and more trouble free although in saying that im facing a possible gear bearing sound at 70K kms already on the euro.....i think if i were you speak to Oz crowd on e90post.com and than make your decision, the car sounds like a really nice package, best would be to have warranty with it than u dont care.........
all the best keen to hear what you do
if i get a chance i would look at a 320d or 325i or 330i e90 shapes still next year when my lease ends.......but brain says IS250........
beamer specialist tells me that diesels are more reliable for some reason with bmw

[[SDCTVE]]

Yea, I do like to have more features, main features I want are leather, HIDs and mp3 connection (which the Euro Luxury has 2/3 of and can get the mp3 connection aftermarket).

Do you have a manual or auto euro btw?

My Euro is manual

[Kevl]

really interesting sceanrio you are in..........
I actually traded my 2006 e90 320i for an Accord Euro
two reasons for it, i was getting back all my money i bought the beamer for and i had 3 issues that if they came back would be expensive to fix if they did happen, what made me sad was the car only had done 36k kms, and already played up a little, other than that i found not enough power some times, but loved the car totally, it had such a nice finish and feel of things and quality of parts was very high, just not reliable i guess? so went with Euro with a heavy heart that i may miss the bmw alot (which i do) but the power on the Euro is amazing compared to the 320i, its more refined and more trouble free although in saying that im facing a possible gear bearing sound at 70K kms already on the euro.....i think if i were you speak to Oz crowd on e90post.com and than make your decision, the car sounds like a really nice package, best would be to have warranty with it than u dont care.........
all the best keen to hear what you do
if i get a chance i would look at a 320d or 325i or 330i e90 shapes still next year when my lease ends.......but brain says IS250........
beamer specialist tells me that diesels are more reliable for some reason with bmw

Yea the BMW does have a higher quality feel to the car which is funny cause it is less reliable.

If you don't mind me asking what went wrong on your BMW? My Aunty had issues as well in the beginning.

Thanks for your opinion, just waiting on my aunty now to see if she upgrades or not. Will let you know if we get the BMW :)

Oh, I would have expected it to be the other way round (heard latest turbodiesels are very complex). Volkswagen have had quite a lot of problems with their diesels. I'm sure the beamer specialist knows more than me though lol.

How about the IS350 :p

[Fredoops]

Yea the BMW does have a higher quality feel to the car which is funny cause it is less reliable.

If you don't mind me asking what went wrong on your BMW? My Aunty had issues as well in the beginning.

Thanks for your opinion, just waiting on my aunty now to see if she upgrades or not. Will let you know if we get the BMW :)

Oh, I would have expected it to be the other way round (heard latest turbodiesels are very complex). Volkswagen have had quite a lot of problems with their diesels. I'm sure the beamer specialist knows more than me though lol.

How about the IS350 :p

IS250/350: what a camry/aurion should handle like

diesel is more reliable cause it's more developed and produced in larger volumes in europe, also less parts.
also the 320d can be tuned to make power out of the demon hole ... from what i've heard the diesel has wayyy more parts/options avail than the 320i (look up alpina.. "drool").

[I CU2]

IS250/350: what a camry/aurion should handle like

It's all rear-wheel drive and everything though! I would expect a ES350 to handle like the Aurion (luckily not sold in this market), but not the IS250/350.

[MingZai]

Ok I'm going to write up a small review on both the cars and I won't be biased just cause we are on a Honda Forum. (Was about to write up a review on the two cars, side by side comparison).
Pretty much in my family we have the 2011 E90 BMW 323i and a 2004 CL9 Accord Euro.
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/248931_10150340427569377_581584376_10086581_214392 4_n.jpg
http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/2806/img1391uw.jpg
Performance:
The 323i runs with a 2.5L Inline 6 Engine giving out 204 PS (150 kW; 201 bhp) 250 N·m (184 lb·ft).
The Euro runs with a K24A4 Inline 4 Engine producing 189 hp (140 kW) 164.5 ft·lbf (223;N·m).
When running down a straight the Euro does pull away from the 323i in my experience. Maybe I should do a more accurate drag.
I believe the 323i is heavier (correct me if I'm mistaken) thus being slower.

The BMW is better for long distance driving for me as it is more comfortable and I can plug in my iPhone and chat on the phone without having to purchase the xcarlink or be scared my phone will run out of battery.
Also better for the luxurious look (durr).

When getting your car serviced, BMW does provide a much better customer experience providing you with loan cars if needed while your car is on service and if lucky you might get a 5 or 6 series for the day and they clean your car
whereas Honda just do the service and return your vehicle like how you brought it in.

Fuel consumption on the 323i ranges from 11.5-15 depending on how you drive.

Got to rush off to work lol but don't know what else to write... feel free to ask questions :D

[Fredoops]

323 is just a 325 detuned ain't it?
Why not reflash the chip to get more out of the 2.5l v6?

[tony1234]

IMO biggest negative against the BMW is the service/maintenance costs.

[[SDCTVE]]

nice of you to go through the trouble to write a review, just a minor problem.... the BMW that Kevl is speaking about is a 2.0 4 cyl 110kw engine. COMPLETELY different to the 323 or 325 6. that aside I think we've established that its not up to the CL9's performance and is seeking opinions whether to go for the BMW or keep the CL9 :p

[Fredoops]

IMO biggest negative against the BMW is the service/maintenance costs.

Not in New Zealand it isnt. Kevl has stated time and time again in this thread Honda would cost more to service/maintenance than the beemer where he is, and from what I know he's about right.

Honda service's like daylight robbery over there

[tony1234]

Not in New Zealand it isnt. Kevl has stated time and time again in this thread Honda would cost more to service/maintenance than the beemer where he is, and from what I know he's about right.

Honda service's like daylight robbery over there
Sounds like the opposite of here in Aust!!

[Kevl]

Ok I'm going to write up a small review on both the cars and I won't be biased just cause we are on a Honda Forum. (Was about to write up a review on the two cars, side by side comparison).
Pretty much in my family we have the 2011 E90 BMW 323i and a 2004 CL9 Accord Euro.

Got to rush off to work lol but don't know what else to write... feel free to ask questions :D

Thanks for the review :)

Wow 15l/100km?? Is that flooring it a lot of the time?

Also, what's your favourite part about each car?


Not in New Zealand it isnt. Kevl has stated time and time again in this thread Honda would cost more to service/maintenance than the beemer where he is, and from what I know he's about right.

Honda service's like daylight robbery over there


Sounds like the opposite of here in Aust!!

Agreed

[MingZai]

;3061680']nice of you to go through the trouble to write a review, just a minor problem.... the BMW that Kevl is speaking about is a 2.0 4 cyl 110kw engine. COMPLETELY different to the 323 or 325 6. that aside I think we've established that its not up to the CL9's performance and is seeking opinions whether to go for the BMW or keep the CL9 :p

It really isn't a problem as when your comparing car's you don't just judge on the engine. The 320i and 323i main difference is the engine and that's about it. Since we've already established that performance wise BOTH the 320i and 323i can't keep up with the CL9 then we move on to other things such as fuel consumption, comfortableness and luxuriousness. Like I said the 320i would def feel much more comfortable and luxurious. My 323i has the M-Sport pack and the suspension is still softer then my CL9. When driving on the freeway, it feels like your gliding but still in control and it certainly is very very quiet though the CL9 is quiet too. The service costs are quite similar and maybe the BMW may require a higher service cost but not ridiculously over the top compared to the Honda service. + You get what you pay as their service is 10 times more better than Honda's lol. Your car gets washed and a loan car is given to you if you require one. BUT the stereo on the CL9 is much better than the BMW. I have to put max bass on the 323i to match the stock CL9 sound settings and still it isn't quite there.


Thanks for the review :)

Wow 15l/100km?? Is that flooring it a lot of the time?

Also, what's your favourite part about each car?


Agreed

Well Stock for Stock

320i / 323i:
Luxurious look and feel.
Comfortable for long drives compared to the Euro
Auto headlights :D
iPod Connection
Bluetooth Connectivity

Euro:
Sportier
Better stereo
Bigger boot space (to my belief)
Cheaper and probably more reliable over the long term!

[Kevl]

Hey guys,

Thought I'd post an update.

We're no longer getting the BMW. Mainly due to our relative deciding to keep the BMW for her son.

Interesting to find out that only a few days after an oil change most of it leaked out onto their garage and BMW refused to reimburse and charged them for another oil change....

Our neighbour worked for BMW and said that they often had really bad service and would always suggest things which didn't need to be serviced / replaced.

They also said all 4 tyres need to be replaced because the edges of all 4 tyres are not in good condition, my aunty does not know much about cars and I feel like they are ripping her off.

[Lazarus]

good thing to stick with euro my friend!

[Fredoops]

Hey guys,

Thought I'd post an update.

We're no longer getting the BMW. Mainly due to our relative deciding to keep the BMW for her son.

Interesting to find out that only a few days after an oil change most of it leaked out onto their garage and BMW refused to reimburse and charged them for another oil change....

Our neighbour worked for BMW and said that they often had really bad service and would always suggest things which didn't need to be serviced / replaced.

They also said all 4 tyres need to be replaced because the edges of all 4 tyres are not in good condition, my aunty does not know much about cars and I feel like they are ripping her off.

I'd assume dealer service?

[[SDCTVE]]

I dunno why people still bother servicing cars at the dealership, its just a loop hole so you 'Dont void your warranty'. but little does everyone know after forking out so much on services, the dealer has already charged you incase they need to change something through 'warranty'. and most of the time the mechanic changing your oil is an apprentice.
I hate Dealership Mechanics!

[I CU2]

I'm hoping that the dealership service mechanics know more about Honda's then your local Falcadore budget garage otherwise it might not be worth it ;l

[Fredoops]

I'm hoping that the dealership service mechanics know more about Honda's then your local Falcadore budget garage otherwise it might not be worth it ;l
good luck with that.... you'd be surprised how many honda dealership "mechanics" don't know they have the hardware to reflash your ECU.

[I CU2]

good luck with that.... you'd be surprised how many honda dealership "mechanics" don't know they have the hardware to reflash your ECU.

Oh no they di ent!

[antony]

A blessing in disguise,as you will have far better service in the long run from your Euro than from your relatives BMW,thats for sure.

[EuroZed]

sorry i never got back to you re:320i issues i had
but to be honest, my actuator died and than got fixed by simple fuse upgrade ($2), other than that most things were ok , only couple of things that happened randomly and resolved it self like slight hesitation while crawling (only happened once)
and active steering lock failing and than fixed it self when i locked the car and unlocked again and never ever happened again....
my euro just had actuator failed, and now i've been told the gear bearing is making some noise and will need replacing or fixing ( in any case minimum $1.5K expense) which makes me think how much better is this car?!
i miss the 320i alot to be honest
something abt the euro u know it will keep going where as any european car i have ever had felt like something new could happen anytime now

[Kevl]

I'd assume dealer service?

Yup you got it.


I'm hoping that the dealership service mechanics know more about Honda's then your local Falcadore budget garage otherwise it might not be worth it ;l

Haha yea I wish this were the case. Our dealership rarely rotates your tires even though they say they do on the receipt :S

[Snowcone]

I'm glad someone finally got around to asking why the hell you are quoting dealer service costs.
You only go the "stealership" as a last resort.
Also comparing the BMW to a base Euro is not a fair comparison.
The Lux version is a brilliant car with quality inclusions, except for the stereo which I rate as average
Not much point in saying much more as the original poster has not got the BMW anyway, but as was mentioned earlier, he should have got a Lux if he wanted more comfort and equipment.

[tron07]

I service my euro at the dealer and the 60k km service cost like $350 only, using my own oil. The even wash the car for you, but I told them not to wash it everytime I sent it in for service. I get free coffee and a ride to the nearest train station, but I usually wait a couple of hours in the lounge for them to finish up.

Wonder how much the BWM would cost for 60k km service.

[Fredoops]

I service my euro at the dealer and the 60k km service cost like $350 only, using my own oil. The even wash the car for you, but I told them not to wash it everytime I sent it in for service. I get free coffee and a ride to the nearest train station, but I usually wait a couple of hours in the lounge for them to finish up.

Wonder how much the BWM would cost for 60k km service.

Its prepaid.

[white_ep3_civic]

The services are pre paid? I would assume that BMW would charge more than Honda would for any service.

[Fredoops]

The services are pre paid? I would assume that BMW would charge more than Honda would for any service.

prepaid package, $1500 or something for 3 years.

I'd still think Honda will be cheaper (crappier oil and all), but 10k/6mth? thats twice a year I had to drop the car off and take time off work and shit...

[white_ep3_civic]

Ah I see. They only thing I don't like about the BMW service is that there is no set km/time to service your car. My dad's old 3 series was only getting serviced every 30,000k which is way too long.

[Snowcone]

$350 for a service and you supply the oil?
What a rip-off
NRMA in NSW were advertising a service for $100 + Consumables and I told the mother-in-law that was too much.
We shopped around and got it cheaper again.
You guys are easy marks for these rip-off merchants.

30 minutes labour (usually done by the apprentice), wholesale cost price for bulk oil and filters = $350 haaaaaaaaaa- at least $250 clear profit for the Stealership of your hard earned readies.

[Fredoops]

$350 for a service and you supply the oil?
What a rip-off
NRMA in NSW were advertising a service for $100 + Consumables and I told the mother-in-law that was too much.
We shopped around and got it cheaper again.
You guys are easy marks for these rip-off merchants.

30 minutes labour (usually done by the apprentice), wholesale cost price for bulk oil and filters = $350 haaaaaaaaaa- at least $250 clear profit for the Stealership of your hard earned readies.

Take a look in your logbook mate, 60k's a mini-major service

[Snowcone]

That 30 minutes included checking transaxle oil levels etc. - allow at least 25 seconds to check the master cylinder levels and fill the washer bottle.
You can add another 30 minutes if you want the wheels removed and a brake check done, but who wears out a set of pads in 60K.
Any brake or tyre place will do a free brake check anyway.

60,000kms is next to nothing for these cars, the Dealers are just trying to frighten you into thinking all the heads of the valves will drop off if you don't race in a spend some money with them.
Change the oil and filter yourself and just drive the car

[Fredoops]

That 30 minutes included checking transaxle oil levels etc. - allow at least 25 seconds to check the master cylinder levels and fill the washer bottle.
You can add another 30 minutes if you want the wheels removed and a brake check done, but who wears out a set of pads in 60K.
Any brake or tyre place will do a free brake check anyway.

60,000kms is next to nothing for these cars, the Dealers are just trying to frighten you into thinking all the heads of the valves will drop off if you don't race in a spend some money with them.
Change the oil and filter yourself and just drive the car

60k is the first auto transmission fluid replacement (i'd make sure I don't buy a euro without tranny fluid changed frequently), and a brake fluid flush.

Ps: accords frequently wear out rear pads at 50k, it was a known defect.

[tron07]

How much is the prepaid value? I know some country offer free services for the first 3 years or something like that.

[Fredoops]

How much is the prepaid value? I know some country offer free services for the first 3 years or something like that.
Can't remember exactly buy i think it was unlimited service for 3 years or something, you go whenever the service warning ce on in the car

South Africa does that free servicing thing.

[boleh]

Read that the 2012 3 Series are endowed with HUD's AS STD! This is one of the coolest gadgetry one can have in a car

[[SDCTVE]]

Just serviced my Euro at a local mechanic (130k) log book said only oil needs to be changed but I changed the filter too. bought OEM oil n Filter from Honda for $60 something, n Mechanic charged me $50 for the work.

[Fredoops]

;3076862']Just serviced my Euro at a local mechanic (130k) log book said only oil needs to be changed but I changed the filter too. bought OEM oil n Filter from Honda for $60 something, n Mechanic charged me $50 for the work.

Honda FEO? Eww. I wouldnt give a 20yr old civic that thing :-p

[antony]

All new cars in South Africa come standard with what they call a SERVICE PLAN,and beleive you me,it is part of the cost of the car...

[[SDCTVE]]

Honda FEO? Eww. I wouldnt give a 20yr old civic that thing :-p

Whats wrong with the FEO?

[Fredoops]

;3077098']Whats wrong with the FEO?

Overpriced dino oil IMO. for the same price there's a whole lot more better oils out there (most Honda dealers don't even use it...)

Especially for older engines, if you don't change oil 3 times a year it's worth putting there something that will last, most peeps on tsxclub steer clear of the Honda FEO anyway

It's just me but since I switch to full-syn oil I'm a complete convert.

[[SDCTVE]]

what oil do you use??

[Fredoops]

;3079259']what oil do you use??
Mobil One Extended Performance 5w-30 grade (lasts 15k miles, I drain at 10k km, you can't find it in the 'normal' auto shops tho, it's a US-import product)

A lot of other forum members here use Castrol Edge 5w-30 cause it's cheap when on special (like $38 per bottle, not much more than the Honda FEO)

A LOT of discussion on syn engine oil here
http://www.ozhonda.com/forum/showthread.php?70745-Any-best-Synthetic-Oil-for-euro/page16