New in town, need wheels. Got $5000, would like something different from my mom's 2004 Toyota (practically a $3K civic). Know the snow can get pretty bad in this remote corner of the Northeast.
Looking at a E46 3.0L awd with 103,041miles for $4800. Free VIM checks say one owner with no accidents. Will need to find a way to get to the lot to test drive it; dealer is 50 miles away. Anything i need to know to buy a used bimmer other than its gonna swallow my paycheck in new parts? Its not like i have much of a choice in AWD sedans at my budget.
>>17449930
I don't own a car dude
If you can't afford AWD, just get a FWD econobox. FWD performs decently in low-traction conditions like snow/sleet
>>17449930
The all wheel drive cars have front control arm issues, but its only a $100 part. Cooling systems are a bitch ,but just spend $400 every 75k miles and get it checked and replaced. Get regular oil changes and you're good.
$5000 - is that a budget you've put aside next to your other living costs, insurance for the car, petrol and maintenance, or is that $5000 everything you have?
>>17449961
This
Literally and unironically buy a 5k civic or integra. That should get you a half decent Si of your choice which will be plenty quick and far easier to keep maintained over the years. Just avoid the 90s ones unless if you're not in an area prone to rusting or cars getting stolen.
>>17449962
That just the budget for the car. I can still cover everything else and I'm certainly expecting $800 -1600 just for inspection and fluid replacement. I mean, I could do the oil myself but I might as well watch the guy do it first while he's inspecting the thing.
>>17449959
I used to drive a 1996 Subaru Legacy and liked the corner handling better. Though I did consider getting finance on a new civic hatch or ford focus.
>>17449961
You make it sound like owning one might be affordable. I hope you're right. I guess it will come down to test driving that car and watching for rust and engine knocks
>>17449930
Keep driving the Toyota. Buy snow tires and you'll be fine. Awd is a meme. Never buy shitboxes from a dealer.
>$500 worth of snow tires
>>17451640
They do make the most difference, but throw a little AWD in and you'll kinda never want to go back
Also
>$500 worth of snow tires
What are you, fucking poor?