'03 Audi A4 vs. '01-'02 BMW 3er - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#1 03-12-2009, 09:59 AM

Got the bug for a convertible, but I must have at least an occasionally-usable rear seat. Unfortunately this rules out an SL

and I don't want a CLK.

Looking at '01 - '02 -ish BMW 3er convertibles. I know typical issues are window regulators, subframe bushings (I think), and climate control resistor, but everything else I've read is routine maintenance necessary on any vehicle.

Cross-shopping with '03 Audi A4 3.0 convertibles. I don't know anything about the A4 3.0. I know about the 1.8T, hence narrowing down to the 3.0.

Seems that this is only available w/ the CVT which is a disadvantage vs. the BMW as I'd prefer a manual gearbox.

Thoughts? Discuss...

diametricalbenz · #2 03-12-2009, 03:12 PM

I have driven the former but not the latter. I haven't had a chance to drive a Audi with the CVT. I do see a few A4 convertibles around here covered in a thick layer of snow. They seem nice but I guess there is that looming rubberbanded question with the CVT. A manual is much more interactive.

Hatterasguy · #3 03-12-2009, 06:37 PM

Get a 330 convertable with a manual. You simply cannot get auto BMW's.

How cheap are M3's of that vintage getting?

#4 03-12-2009, 06:56 PM

I prefer a manual but I have to think hard about the ATL traffic I deal with every day. Honestly I'll buy the best maintained example - auto or manual but all things equal I much prefer the manual.

An M3 of the 2002-ish era? Mid $20K or thereabouts. Hell of a lot of car for that money. I'm looking to spend a bit less than that though, and an M3 is very expensive to keep on the road as it ages. Plus a 330 is not much slower than an M3 and the ride quality is VASTLY superior - important for commuting duties.

Hatterasguy · #5 03-12-2009, 07:52 PM

My cousin has a 330CI and its a pretty quick car.

I think his is an 04 or 05, it looks brand new since it just sits in his garage and he never drives it.