Bimmer or Bust

Tomorrow I'll take one last look at the Bimmers. I've pondered the merits of a 2006 BMW 325 or going back to a 2004 model year. So many choices, so many options. Deciding where the best value lies is quite difficult. The price difference is so narrow it suggests one is over priced or the other under priced. Is it really worth blowing the money? Probably not, but it sure is fun to dream.

Consuming

Since a few of our friends and Bonnie have bought new cars, I figured I'd take a look. Today I drive a modest Honda Accord. Aside from the brakes rusting out from the Ohio winters - yes apparently, modern brakes still corrode, it's been a nice car. And I suppose that's the point. The car is just 'nice'.

So Friday I test drove an Acura TSX and TL. Today I was drawn back to the BMW 3 Series. The TSX (which is my Accord with some minor upgrades) was uninspiring. It's an Accord with more toys and slightly better handling. I'd have to find a killer deal to pull the trigger. Now the TL on the other hand is quite a step up. With more of everything, this car means business. And of course it also means more dough.

Finally I revisited my occasional affair with a BMW 325. I drove a 2006 model year with only 11k miles. I was reminded just how different a driver's car really feels. Sure those Acuras are loaded, but the handling isn't quite there. This particular vehicle was priced in between the TSX and TL. But there are some trade offs for the ultimate driving machine. Most significantly, there's no navigation - easily corrected with a TomTom. In the earlier model years, I'd give up Bluetooth. And with any BMW, cup holders are scarce.

Who knows what I'll select. Perhaps I'll even stick to the trusty Accord for awhile longer. But car shopping sure is fun...