artyen

I have had my c230 coupe since 02' and I feel it's about time I change cars. I will have to say that these c-coupes are quite reliable. I have never had a mechanical failure ever. 50,000+miles, Still running great.

Here are some cars that I have been looking into, and some research that I have done...

My budget is around 15-20k, Coming from the coupe, I am looking for a 6 cyclinder, that is quicker and has more Hp. I am also looking for it to be reliable..as my coupe has been for me.

1999-2002 Bmw Z3
From my research there looks like all Z3s suffer from a rear subframe problem and will need need weld kits (3k). I like the performance and look of these roadsters but I wouldnt want to deal with this frame issue.

1999-2000 Boxster
I have always wanted the porsche. Upon further research, the Boxster doesnt seem very reliable. It suffers from a RMS (rear main seal) issue.. that continues to this day, recent models... It has not been resolved by porsche and has there is a high potential of a whole engine replacement. Again, I like the performance, look of these cars.. but hence.. the reliability isn't at all there.

2000+ CLK 320
Numerically there is a slight Hp increase vs my c-coupe. I like the 6 cyclinder. I would not like the 8 cyclinder even tho there is performance diff. I just dont want a guzzler for my daily. As far as reliability, I have only read about minor electronic issues. I would go for the coupe/ or cabrio, whichever is in my budget. Would like the 2000+ for the upgraded trim look.

Does anyone have any experience with these cars? Or suggestions? I am mainly looking at Coupes/Convertibles, Used, and most of all low main and reliable. I appreciate any input...

Should i just wait a few more yrs, for the BMW z4 coupe to hit the used market?

THanks.

rlee02135

go for an e46 coupe....

Rick

Sounds like he's looking more at cabriolet/convertibles....
I like the utility of the hatch. so I've been looking at the Volvo ES30, but waiting to see if the AWD is offered here (US). I'm thinking an 08 model year, so maybe MBUSA will get off their high horse and allow the import of whatever C Coupe is produced.
We're also looking at an R350 for replacing the well aged E320...sometime in Jan/Feb.

severecaraddict

Z3s IMO are rather bland and boring on the inside. I'd go with a SLK230, or 320 before I got a BMW. Plus the rear windows in the Z3 are plastic which sucks monkey *****. The 'wow' factor with the hardtop is priceless, and you can pick up a 6spd in the 2001+ models.

Boxters are nice looking on the outside, but if I were to get one, I'd only go for the S. They're a bit pricey, and I've heard high maintenance; but I have no personal experience in this area.

CLK430s are gorgeous, but no manual transmission availible

I owned a '98 E36 BMW 328ic Convertible earlier this year that only had 45k actual miles. It had the premium package, 5spd, roll over protection, and HK sound. It was a classy little ride, comparable maint. to my SLK (my dealer is a MB/BMW only dealership) and I think the E36 is a classic bodystyle for the money. My biggest complaint was the back window being plastic...I just can't handle that in a car that was $47k new. I'd probably still have that car if I didn't have a cat that like to bask in the sun on the soft top. I've owned 4 BMWs in the last 2 years: 2 E36s: a 328is and a 328ic; and 2 E39 528i.

If I were looking to get a roadster, I'd STRONGLY consider a 2001+ Audi TT Quattro; specifically w/the baseball golve leather. The 1.8 liter turbo charged engine puts out 225 hp and its mated to a 6spd transmission on an AWD chasis. I've owned 3 late model VWs with the same engine, and aside from the coilpack issue that ALL VAGs (VW Audi Group) had a few years back, they're strong lil motors. The thing to look for with TTs approaching or above 60k is has the timing belt been changed out. That's a rather pricey little service that is STRONGLY recommended. On VWs (I can't speak for Audi on this one) the water pumps are genereally replaced during this service because OEM waterpumps from the factory had plastic propellers that are notorious for breaking. Maybe its just me, but I find the TT to be extremely sexy, agressive-looking, and charming all at once.


Just out of curiousity, where are you located and what are the specs on your car? I'm looking at getting back into a C230 hatch for more headroom.

advans

a used 04/05 C320 coupe! ahaha I know you still <3 your coupe! j/k


I think I would look for W208 CLKs if I were you. I am a bimmer fan, but now a fan of the "Z" series they carry. some locals call it the "girlfriend" car. ahaha

BlackLiquorish8

used CLK430 with sports package and AMG wheels

ismeto

How easy you sell the Coupe , I do not know but I thin you will wait more



my options ,

current CLK

next W204 Saloon (if you think saloon )

never think Z series (BMW) last released 3 coupe perhaps

white_w203

i'd get a boxster and do a techart wide body. they sell an aftermarket hard top too. i would do all techart!!!