Re: 320i or 323i
BELLISSIMO;167210 said:
The real aficionados (bros that indulge in Z4, M3, M5, 645 and up) aside, a number of bros in the previous replies claimed that in deciding between the IS250 and the 320/323, the decision was made on the very fact that the 3-series handles and takes corners better and that it has better legroom.
I dare say that the decision was made because we are all die-hards. This is despite the availability of a more superior alternative at about the same price. I for one am guilty of that too!
If the brands/models were switched, one would say that the 3-series won over because of its drop-dead gorgeous looks and its relatively powerful 205hp engine. The smaller legroom and slightly sluggish low-end torque wouldn't matter anymore!
Look, we are BMW die-hards!
Interesting and logical perspective.
My perspective is not dissimilar; about 15 years ago BMW shocked the world, and checkmated MB with the e34 5 series. Since then, many of us may have grown up and entered our careers with aspirations of owning a BMW. For many, the fulfilling of that dream is the acquiring of a bimmer; the mark of success. And its still Europe's leading premium manufacturer. During my parents era, it was a MB.
I read somewhere that BMW and Apple are the two brands where owners defend the brand if they bought a defective product. That's a true mark of success.
A car salesman once told me not to consider the best seller in any segment, but the third best selling one. Its likely that you get the most out of them as they are trying the hardest to please. BMW was the third back then, behind MB and Jag. It maybe that the same thing is playing out again. Of course Jag seems out of this race, for now anyway.
BMW then offered an alternative to MB's. A sporty car that embued german engineering qualities and a youthful image that still equated prestiege. Of course MB pooh poohed it. How wrong they were! Now Lexus is saying their experience is one of refinement, attention to detail, ownership experience, enginnering excellence and consistancy. Its beginning to pay off. For them and its good news to us bimmer fans. Any pressure to bring up quality and value will ultimately benefit us. In fact, they maybe doing what MB should have done a long time ago.
From what i understand, here in sg anyway, 50% of Lexus owners are converts from MB, a rather smaller percentage from BMW. So BMW's lead is here to stay. As for BMW vs Lexus; its like tic tac toe; this debate will go on forever. One always loses when measured on other's terms. I am fortunate to have both. And loving every moment.
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