micropower99

Hey Guys,

Sorry I haven't been on much lately on the forums. I honestly do miss posting on here and I hope my old threads have helped some of the newbies out with modding, parts..etc Anyways, I'm looking to to trade in my C for something new this month. I definitely am looking for more power! Even more than the 350. So lately I've been testing out and researching into a few options:

-2010 Audi S4
-2011 BMW 335xi
-2008 Lexus ISF

What do you guys think? Please post your thoughts and opinions on which you would choose.

P.s. I don't want a C63 because its so similar to my car in styling, that when I buy a new car, I need a considerable change in styling lol.

Thanks!

Carsy

If you want HP don't bother with those 3 so called prissy prestige cars . Why not a muscle car with real *****. Try a Dodge Viper or similar. Something with over 500 HP.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=13qIe8Sy1aw

snarlingchicken

Of the three, I'd probably go for the S4. It's quite nice, has a wonderful gearbox, interior has been revamped since the B7 generation. On the downside however, it compares only to the 335i in terms of performance. Also, the tail lights were never really attractive to me. If you were to get the 335i with a manual gearbox, I'm sure you'd definitely get the performance/fun you're looking for, but in terms of options, the 335i, as well as the 335xi lacks most common options that come with cars these days (ie. some sort of multimedia interface, heated seats) and costs an arm and a leg to get those options installed. Also the 335's N54 engine is still on and off with the HPFP problem.


I assume you'd want AWD since you're in Canada for the winter, so the S4 and Bimmer definitely seem to be the two you might want to get. The ISF is a great car. Comfy/soft (although kinda stretchy leather) seats, great touch navi, pretty good stereo, etc, but has a rather cramped backseat/trunk space, and is honestly only a hint better in a straight line than the IS350, and not as much of a potential daily driver as the other two are. When I test drove an IS350, (interior is still the same in size!) I adjusted the driver's seat to my liking and then sat down in the backseat. My legs were definitely cramped. So if you have kids, expect em to be fidgety, and for them to scratch the leather quite a bit getting in and out. ALSO. I found Lexuses, err, Lexi to be somewhat numb in the handling and roadfeel department. If that's something you want (especially since you're looking for performance) that's something I'd take into consideration. But hey, the ISF has the fastest shifting automatic (excluding dual-clutch) transmission on the market. Or so says the MyIs/ClubLexus folk.

So for me, I'd go from S4>335xi>ISF.

lithium332

if it's entirely limited to those 3 choices then i'd have to go with the 335xi. the s4 is a great car but IMO it's way too plain from the outside and barely looks any different from a normal A4. the only "sports sedan" i'd ever consider getting is the C63. the ISF is also a decent car but are you really going to move onto a glorified toyota from a mercedes? and again, it's just not visually striking.

the 335xi is the only option. great performance, handling, and looks the best out of all three cars. but if you'd ask me, i'd go with an S5 myself because 3 series are just sooo overdone...

it's just my opinion of course. as you can see i value the styling of the car quite a bit. if you're a more subtle and practical kinda guy then the S4 and ISF makes sense. in such a case i'd definitely pick the S4!

bigigg

s4 would be my 1st pic.. 335 is good also if you plan on modding it bc the choices are endless.. not considering a c63?

Sportstick

Of those three, I think the choice is between the Bimmer and Lexus, and I would take the BMW driving experience over anything Lexus has to offer. My bias is to be much more interested in which one will keep me out of the service department and Audi is the clear loser historically, and in recent data as well. Yes, some will report their's was fine, but I am looking at the overall data. On a personal note, I had one once, and that turned out to be one too many, and dealer and corporate support were poor.

Good luck with your choice!

C300Sport

Although I like the Audi's basic design, I find the execution and reliability a bit lacking. Of course with a hundred or so more HP under the hood, things would have to be better.
The 3 Series is an amazing driving car on a nice smooth, twisty road but I don't like the ride, the interior, the attitude or every BMW salesman I have ever met, the reliability or the fact I would see my car coming at me 50 times a day.
The Lexus looks a little wierd on the outside, really nice but very small on the inside and just doesn't get me juices flowing at all.
Although it is the same basic running gear, how about the E Coupe? Cadillac CTS 3.6? Give it a few months and maybe you could try a Buick Regal GS...I just had to throw that in there as I find it intriguing that they are at least out there trying!

Sportstick

Actually a great point....a rebadged Opel Insignia, with all the performance content, built in Germany and shipped here...don't be fooled by the Buick name...this car is getting great reviews, but be sure it's the GS.....for another surprise, also check out:

http://www.leftlanenews.com/volvo-s60.html

Peabody

The new E Class is winning tons of awards for design and performance. I can't believe you're not even considering it. If you want different try a Coupe instead of your old sedan.

C300Kid

Audi no question..but I'd go with the S5. The new CTS coupe is sick as well.

kevinwithdabenz

^^ i was actually thinking the same thing. i really wanted an S5. but my choices were a C63, M3, or S5. as they are all in the same price range.. their all beautiful cars. in my opinion the S5 is definitely the most drop dead gorgeous car out of all of them BUT it lacks so much in power with 3something HP. this was last year idk what kind of upgrades they have now. BUT back to OP. i would say Audi or Bimmer. and of course maybe another benz? if you dont want a C63 but you want power try a different AMG class? E63 is pretty nice, and so is the CL =x im definitely in love with a CL =x sigh. i want one now =[

jctevere

No to bimmer, its not that fast and they are about the change the styiling. Not to the ISF, over priced P.O.S. imo. And I like the Audi, but the S4/A4 is not my personal cup of tea. I am more into the A5/S5.

Like someone else recommended, why not get a Camaro SS or a Challenger or the new Stang (least favorite of the three).

I love the new chevy's and I was very surprised with the quality and reliability rating improvements.

Your not into any Infinti's? I had a g37 coupe and I LOVED it!

Peabody

F that noise, choose this.

Sportstick

Not enough.

http://www.lingenfelter.com/engine-p...s-ls3-l99-sale

Peabody

Did you just compare a camaro to an E class convertible?

Sportstick

I guess I should have raised the "dry wit" flag in offering a way to more power. Why not 800hp?


P.S. It also comes as a "Firebird".

joshg1001

Im also a fan of Lexus and participate in their car forums. So I have to say I am biased towards the ISF. I understand that the backseat is cramped, etc, but its not like the C isnt cramped either. These are entry level vehicles so if you are looking at cars in this class, then I dont think legroom is a relevant condition.

I would love to play with the sound that the ISF makes at WOT.

imboom

Have you ever looked into an E60 BMW M5? Circa 07 go for about 45k, 06's go for even less. Extended warranties through Easycare, etc is very necessary however, you get pretty much bumper to bumper coverage.

C300Kid

Just curious..what makes one a fan of Lexus? I hate that company with a passion. They're no longer a better value than their superior German competition and the people that drive them are massive d-bags..at least in my experience.

C300Kid

Also..the IS-F is more expensive than the M3. You'd think Lexus wouldve priced their inferior BMW ripoff below the car they were targeting.

patrickkc

HAHA, they compared the Camaro with the E63 on Topgear this week.. ahah

shellshock

335i would to be the one to go with outta the bunch. The rest are slow! The S500 spanks the Lexus. I've ran a few of those.

clkcadet

I would pick the 335xi, especially if you can get one with the M body package.

joshg1001

Im going to assume that your question was of genuine curiosity so I wont go on the defensive...yet

My family has owned a few, and to be honest, a large part of it is the service. I know everyone says this, but honestly, I look forward to go service our vehicles at the dealership, from the free snacks and drinks, to a loaner car without even having to ask (even for a quick oil change). Then there is the true to god honest SA. I am disapointed at the MB dealership when I go because there isnt any of this.

We have owned the first generation RX300, right now we have an RX330, and are soon to receive the RX450h. I understand many people hate Lexus and the RX might be the epitome of that hate, but it is a truly outstanding vehicle for our family, and it meets our needs. You probably see tons of RXs on the road because the car is perfect for families of today. We also have an IS300, and in a world filled with bmw 3 series, it is a great alternative sporty vehicle.

I also continue to think they are good value. Just because I am a lexus fan doesnt mean that I cannot appreciate other vehicles as well (like MB) and I hope you can see where I might be coming from.

As for the D bags, I think most are BMW drivers.

C300Kid

Sorry for being an ***..I didn't mean for that post to come off like that..I actually was just curious. I appreciate that you actually responded..and I can agree that the RX is a great family vehicle.