UPDATE IN POST #29. I ended up going with a 335i coupe.

I'm expecting a bit of biased answers with the question since this is pt.net, but I figured I'd ask you guys your thoughts.

Apples to Apples would you go with a TBSS or a 335i given my situation below?

What I want: I'm looking for a fast and reliable vehicle that I can take clients out in for work.

TBSS Pros:
-I know LSx based engines very well
-Extra room for golf clubs and hauling
-Towing ability
-Lower cost of upkeep
-Lower insurance (at 24, there's about a $500/year difference)

Cons:
-Cheaper car
-Not made anymore
-Availability of TBSS specific parts
-Gas mileage (it isn't a dealbreaker, but it is a consideration)

335i Pros:
-Twin turbo N54 engine ($2000 in performance goes much further than with the LS2)
-More luxury options
-Handling is phenomenal
-Better fit for my job
-Gas mileage is almost double that of the TBSS
-Much more solidly made

Cons:
-More expensive upkeep
-Higher insurance
-Less room

I was pretty set on getting a 335i until a TBSS with low miles popped up near me for a reasonable price. The TBSS is fully loaded (3ss package) so the options would be the same: Great engine, navigation, leather, and everything else. However, the 335i's I'm looking at were considerably more brand new so that is something I've considered.

Any thoughts on the matter or things worth mentioning that I'm forgetting?

 

Are replacement parts on the BMW really expensive? Also if it does break, don't you need to take it to a BMW specialist?

 

6.2 Crew Cab....

*Same number of seats as the TBSS except you have some sholder room and the seats don't feel like some sort of torture device.

*Same HP as the TBSS

*They still make it so parts will be easier to find when it comes time.

*You won't see a BMW driver in the bathroom mirror

 

If it was me id go for the TBSS only because one day im sure you will need to tow something, maybe you might want to get some bikes/4-wheeles or even a boat. Then you would have to spend more time and money finding a buddy's truck filling back up and praying and hoping nothing happens to it while its in your possession. I will always have a 4x4 crew or 4x4 Tahoe. Never Know when I'm going to need 4x4 or tow the boat around. Just my .02 cents

 

I would say the TBSS for cost of ownership (basic services are even way expensive on a BMW), and also in value retention. BMW's are nice, but like most higher end cars, they seem to decline in value fairly quickly, especially when newer models are introduced. Even though it is a cheaper built vehicle, if you keep the TBSS nice, they seem to hold their value well. Also the ability to tow and haul is very nice, not sure how important it is for you, but for many of us on here it's a must. That's just my opinion though, I think both would be a fun buy, it's just which one works best for you.

 

-Towing is nice, but it really isn't very important right now. It might be in 5 years, but I don't plan to keep this vehicle that long anyways.

-I live and work in downtown Austin so I have to strongly consider things like parallel parking. Even my extended cab short bed is a gigantic pain to drive and park where I live. That's why I'm only considering cars and smaller SUVs.

-BMW parts are very expensive, but I plan to either go with a CPO vehicle or buy a 3rd party warranty. I'm strongly considering buying a warranty if I got the TBSS as well. Also, the BMW parts may be more expensive, but they're also more widely available. The Trailblazer worries me because the parts are harder and harder to find.

-Either vehicle won't be heavily modded. I've taken the cam/stall/boltons route in the past and it was a pain. That's why I want something that already runs very well from the factory.


I'm going to go check out the Trailblazer tomorrow. I've worked on one before but it's been several years. I think the BMW gets me more for the money, but the Trailblazer fits my lifestyle a bit better which makes the choice very tough for me.

 

335i without question.

Really, not even a question.

 

I hate the interior on them BMWs so it would be an easy choice for me. G8 GT, the interior of the TBSS looks crappy too IMO.

 

See that's interesting because between the G8 GT and the 335i it was no comparison (for me).

The interior on the G8 just seems too big and bulky. It reminds me of my dad's Expedition for some reason. The 335i is obviously smaller, but it feels a bit more sport oriented to me.

As far as performance, $2000 will get you a heck of a lot more with a 335i. We're talking apples to oranges in that case since the N54 is twin turboed. Plus, the BMW will kill it handling wise.

 

if i was going with a 335i i would rather get an ats, its a better car.