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      07-22-2015, 04:41 PM   #1
coolicarboy
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Considering an M235i

Hey guys, I used to own an E92 328i and I loved it. Great handling car that was very refined and fun to drive. I got into a 2013 VW GLI, and while it is convenient, it has started to give me a lot of issues. I want something a bit more fun and refined that can be modded, while at the same time won't leave me stranded like the VW has three times.

First option is, as the title says, a 2016 M235i. Seems like a fun car, and with the N55, more reliable than the N54 was. Also have done a lot of research and it can be modded pretty well which I like. Very refined, too!

Second option, a 2016 Audi S3. Now, I know that VW and Audi are the same company, so i'm a bit weary of this one. It seems like much more of a drivers car than the GLI, with all wheel drive and increased power and suspension. It can also be modded a lot which is a plus.

Third and last option, which may be comparing apples to oranges, a 2016 Subaru STI. I really like the performance of this car, but I am worried about the ringland issues it has. Also, being stick, I can imagine it might become a pain living in Miami.

I realize that this is a 2 series forum, but maybe someone has had experience with one or more of the listed cars. I will be test driving them all, but I would like to hear the opinions of others as well!

Input?
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      07-22-2015, 04:48 PM   #2
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I also came from a 2009 328i and loved it! But I absolutely love the M235i more in every way (except for the numb steering feel). Funny as my second option was an STI and my sister considered an S3 so I got to play with them both a bit.

To keep it short the S3 was just downright boring and underwhelming. It's numb/comfortable but I didn't see much fun being had on track with it. And I wasn't sure how mod friendly that car would be either.

The STI was an absolute blast but not a fan of 4 doors and a car that big. The engine was also a deal breaker for me on that one.

The M235i is spunky, nimble, has lots of torque, many mods available, comfortable as a DD, beast at the track...........I could go on and on. After the test drives I'm sure you'll know right away which is the best for you! Have fun!!!

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      07-22-2015, 05:32 PM   #3
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Went from a 08' 135i to a 10' 328i to an 11' GTI to a 13' 328i. The v-dub was a fun little car but just like ur 13' GLI I had a ton of problems with it (DSG 2x, sub-frame 2x) the 328i has been rock solid. Just passing the time until I order my M235i in February 16.

I had a 04' WRX new - that needed a short block after only 3k miles (excessive oil consumption) that was a fun car too but the interiors on those cars are crap compared to the Germans. To mean an interior is a big part of the car purchase - it's the part you're going to see the most of day in and day out.

Motor trend has a long term A3 that they've had a host of issues with in the first 10k. I like VW/Audi but just can't see myself owning one again.

Don't forget that maintenance is included with the Bimmer so there is some added value there. I spent an entire day at BMW's performance driving center flogging an M235i for the entire day (a 90 degree day in July to be exact) and I fell in love with the M235i. That car took a beating and just kept asking for more.
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      07-22-2015, 06:56 PM   #4
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I would say test drive all of them if you haven't already.

I had a list of cars I was interested in...until i test drove the M235i.

I don't like the interior of the S3, but really liked the S5 that I drove. It still didnt compare to the M235i.

Cant really speak to the STI.
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      07-22-2015, 07:15 PM   #5
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Just get it. This is my 17th BMW. Started out with a 1974 2002' then a bunch more 2002/tii's, M5's e30 M3 (never should have sold that car), 335i and now the M235. Out of all of them this is the best all around BMW I have ever owned. It has the perfect balance of sport, comfort and refinement. I consider it a perfect street car. And at 10k miles not an issue other than the subs stopped working twice 2 months ago. Restarted the car and they came back. Otherwise perfect.
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      07-22-2015, 07:39 PM   #6
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Save yourself some time and drive the M235i first...

You won't bother with the rest afterwards
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      07-22-2015, 08:37 PM   #7
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There's a video on Youtube in which race driver Randy Pobst drives a '14 m235i and declares it to be his favorite BMW of the last 10 years. I agree with him.

I did 150 or so miles on the autobahn a few weeks ago, and it did not disappoint.

This is a special car. A future classic, IMO. Of course, in a few months, it may be overshadowed by the m2. Or not. I really think that the m235i hits the sweet spot in terms of performance, handling, enjoyment, appearance and price.
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      07-22-2015, 08:53 PM   #8
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Sounds to me like the cars are narrowed down to an M235 & STi.

As you said, apples to oranges. Go drive both and the one you want(need) will become clear. (we already know what you're going to choose )
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      07-22-2015, 09:10 PM   #9
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I own a Subaru and the fit and finish is not near BMWs. My Subaru aged horribly (the paint is very thin... scratches from my wife just opening the door). Mechanically things rattle (it doesn't feel like a high end vehicle). Owning both if I had to choose between the brands BMW hands down. I'll also add that I'm not a fan of understeer. My 235i is a great car although at times I feel like its missing something.
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      07-22-2015, 09:16 PM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by BLK235iNJ View Post
I own a Subaru and the fit and finish is not near BMWs. My Subaru also aged horribly (the paint is very thin... scratches from my wife just opening the door). Owning both if I had to choose between the brands BMW hands down. I'll also add that I'm not a fan of understeer. My 235i is a great car although at times I feel like its missing something.
Interesting...I also own both....what is it about Subies and BMWs? The Crosstrek is my commuter/dd/grocery-getter/ready-for-winter car. Clearly, these brands serve different purposes, but for exactly 50% of the price of the 228i, the Subie does an outstanding job and has refined engineering and high quality for its price class. But, just sticking a powerful engine and taut chassis in a car of the Subie's category does not a BMW competitor make.

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      07-22-2015, 09:24 PM   #11
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Mast last car was an STI. I was on the waiting list for it when they were released in the US (2004) and have had it until January of this year when I sold it and purchased my M235i. I liked it so much I was close to getting (or at least test driving) a 2016 STI. However, the M235i is so much better. At least it is a lot better than an 11 year old STI, I assume it would still be a step up from a 2016 STI though. I also changed from a lifetime of manuals to the 8SP (and I'm digging it!). The power delivery is smoother and the extra HP and torque are significant. Build quality is a lot better.

A coworker of mine has the S3 and I'm pretty sure he thinks the M235i is better.

Good luck
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      07-23-2015, 01:08 AM   #12
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      07-23-2015, 09:57 AM   #13
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the M235 is my favorite car right now, i might be shopping for one very soon.
I say get it, its looks good and drives even better
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      07-23-2015, 10:27 AM   #14
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I went from a 2013 Honda Civic SI to a 2015 M235i 6-Speed Manual and let me say, I have never looked back.

I was also looking at the 2015 Subaru STI and BRZ along with the GTI Euro R. I test drove all three and let me say each has it's own uniqueness, the STI being very quick also but just felt too big, the BRZ didn't have enough power for my taste and the Euro R was also quick but lacked something..

I felt like with the M235i everything is just so more responsive, and the seats and steering wheel just all fit together very well. Going into corner I don't have to worry about rolls anymore, it sticks to the ground so well.
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      07-23-2015, 01:26 PM   #15
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I have a 2011 Forester XT and I got it with hopes of having a fun family wagon. Long story short the turbo lag sucks and the suspension is very soft. This is a very bad combo for 2 kids that get car sick. They have hated the thing since day 1. I end up taking my A8 (1999) or my 2 series everywhere. I wont buy another Subaru after my experience with this one. This includes the level of service I get when I bring it in. At the BMW dealer I feel like I'm getting treated individually and at the Subaru dealer I'm just another car in for service.

My wife doesnt know this but I'm about to take the Subaru to an Alfa Romeo dealership for a 4c.



either way good luck to the dude in the market for a new car. its fun to be in the market.



Quote:
Originally Posted by Sportstick View Post
Interesting...I also own both....what is it about Subies and BMWs? The Crosstrek is my commuter/dd/grocery-getter/ready-for-winter car. Clearly, these brands serve different purposes, but for exactly 50% of the price of the 228i, the Subie does an outstanding job and has refined engineering and high quality for its price class. But, just sticking a powerful engine and taut chassis in a car of the Subie's category does not a BMW competitor make.

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      07-23-2015, 02:23 PM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by BLK235iNJ View Post
I have a 2011 Forester XT and I got it with hopes of having a fun family wagon. Long story short the turbo lag sucks and the suspension is very soft. This is a very bad combo for 2 kids that get car sick. They have hated the thing since day 1. I end up taking my A8 (1999) or my 2 series everywhere. I wont buy another Subaru after my experience with this one. This includes the level of service I get when I bring it in. At the BMW dealer I feel like I'm getting treated individually and at the Subaru dealer I'm just another car in for service.

My wife doesnt know this but I'm about to take the Subaru to an Alfa Romeo dealership for a 4c.



either way good luck to the dude in the market for a new car. its fun to be in the market.
Sorry to read. My experience was the opposite. But, we can all agree these are not close to being BMWs!! Good luck and enjoy the Alfa!
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      07-23-2015, 02:26 PM   #17
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Thank you everyone for the information and opinions! Keep em coming!
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      07-24-2015, 09:18 AM   #18
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I had a 2006 Subaru WRX before the M235i.

It's not even a comparison. The BMW is so much more refined.

The WRX is a tuner car and that's it. It's loud, rattles, and has some pretty bad paint as was stated earlier. The only advantage my WRX had was AWD, which is available on the BMW, but I don't really think the x-Drive system is such a great AWD system compared to Subaru or Audi.
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      08-01-2015, 10:07 PM   #19
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So today I test drove the M235i, S3, and Mustang GT. (I added the Mustang to the list and dropped the STI)

Needless to say, the preference is now in this order.

1. M235I
2. Mustang GT
3. S3

So, i've built all these cars via the online building apps. The 235i comes out to 52k optioned the way I want it. The Mustang, 45k. The Audi, 51k.


If I can get the 235i down into the 47 or 48k range, its what I will most likely end up with. It drives absolutely amazing. SO torquey, nimble, and fun to drive. More fun than my E92 328 was, and by a long shot. This car was the only one that left a complete WOW factor in every way possible. Refinement, fun factor, performance, etc...

The Mustang was awesome. The rumble of the v8 was absolutely intoxicating. However, it felt pretty big and it was no where near as connected to the road as the BMW. Even with a manual. But then again, it is priced much lower which is why this is JUST below the BMW in my top 3. If I can get a good deal on it, I may pick one up instead. Only got the WOW factor when flooring it in a straight line.

The Audi S3 was also great.... Pretty fun to drive. But it reminds me WAY too much of my current 2013 GLI. Engine sound, interior doors, materials, etc... The best way to put it is, it drives like an AWD GLI (if there was one ) with a bit better handling.

My decision will be made in about a month in a half, so I will keep you all updated.
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      08-02-2015, 01:21 AM   #20
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Mustang GT is a car I'm looking forward to drive!!

As for m235i vs s3? I think they're both great cars. But very "different". Two different personalities.

The m235i has a better stock engine i6 engine is better. But s3 engine is more tune friendly
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      08-02-2015, 01:41 AM   #21
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If euro delivery is an option for you with a good dealership you should be able to hit your target price if not do better! Plus a trip to europe and the experience CANNOT be beat
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      08-02-2015, 02:11 AM   #22
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 3PedalMINI View Post
If euro delivery is an option for you with a good dealership you should be able to hit your target price if not do better! Plus a trip to europe and the experience CANNOT be beat
+1

With a bit of effort, you can probably do ED of an M235i with your specs for around $46K. I did ED for way less than that but my car is relatively light on the options.

I considered and test-drove the Mustang, as well. And while I will say that it's a very good value (i.e., a lot of bang for the buck), it wasn't the car for me. I preferred the M235i for a lot of reasons, not least of which were:
- better size
- better visibility
- better handling
- better resale value (probably)
- lower insurance costs. Your mileage may vary, but I got a quote from my insurance carrier, and the Mustang V8 would have been crazy-expensive for me to insure.
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