Re: Newbie Question
You know, prior to commiting to my F13, I entertained the idea of getting one of the last of the mohicans, I mean, the NA V8 in the form of the M3. So, I sat down, and drew up a list of parameters that would help me decide on my choice. You're right, the cost is about the same for both machines. Fully spec'ed up, either one of these machines would cost a shade under $400K, so that's no small sum you'd be throwing in anybody's direction.
I can't say the following parameters would apply to you, but I'll share with you what went through my mind, via the questions I asked myself.
1.
What is my driving routine like - is it mainly city/urban, or ex-urban/long distances? In my case, it was almost 99% short commutes, start-stop traffic, city gridlock. Chances I'd get to WOT/BOV is like next to 0%. Fuel economy on an M3 - well, I'd be lucky if I could squeeze 3km/L @ the end of the day. At least with the F13, I'm doing a decent 8km/L.
2.
Would I be able to exploit the full potential of the car? Everyone dreams of being a track-guru, tarmac-terror - but in reality, I know I drive like the fcuking Unker that I cannot deny I am. I putter around town, and my only claim to fame is that I'm able to chiet the more Unker-Taxi driver in the Sonata next to me @ the traffic lights. I'll never bring myself to track a $400K car, because the stone chips would break my heart, and the repairs would break my piggy-bank.
3.
New model vs Out-going model? Undeniably, the M3, for all it's prowess & finesse & scalpel sharp handling & rock solid stability & last & best of the best NA V8 animal, is a model on its last legs. The new M3
WILL blow the old one clean clear out of the water. It has to, otherwise, there'd be no reason for the new one to come out! The F13 is the first of the new Corona Rings. It's also the first with the new all LED adaptive headlights - it's the harbinger of the new design motif of the BMW family. Personally, I'd prefer something that looks new & won't date the minute I've put the deposit down.
Ultimately, these questions served to put into focus what I was really after - and so, I decided on the F13 in the end. Would my parameters change in the future, OF COURSE they would, and the changing of my requirements would then lead to a different conclusion. There's no right or wrong, only what pleases you.
Congrats in advance - you are in an enviable position to be faced with such a delectable decision
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