Didn't read the whole thread, but get a 04-05 Audi S4 (the older body style without the big grille). For around 50K, that would be the way to go.

 

Agree with Audi A4/S4 recommendations. Really excellent German engineering, nice look and feel to interior and really nice lines in exterior. I prefer the current model over their new big nose version. The size is compact yet roomy especially the sedan. I have the 3.0 Cabrio and could not be happeir, except for my soon to be born 6er.

 

Hi KC,


Its a tough decision when buying a car nowadays. I'm close to going with the E60 right now. My advice is to take your time. When I first sat in the E60, I thought the interior was very nice. Then, I sat in other cars (i.e., A6) and the E60 interior then seemed plain. However, the whole package is key.

That said, its seems you want a smaller car than the E60 and your interested in the new 3 series. Otherwise try the new A6. I'd say the best option is to wait for the new 3 because it will be the leader of its class. You'll be sorry if you don't wait, as you like how a BMW drives. It should be quick with the R6 but will cost a few bucks.

As a second choice, it can come down to money. If money isn't an issue (it generally is) I'd recommend the S4. Its very fast, handles great, and you get AWD traction as a safety feature for your family. I'm biased being an A4 owner, but the exterior looks great and Audi makes the best interiors. There is alot of S4 inventory right now and maybe you can swing a deal.

The third choice would be the G35. RWD handles like a BMW and costs much less. They fixed up the cheap cabin a bit, however, the new exterior looks a bit mocked. However, huge savings here in price and AWD available.

I list the Acura last because they are different cars. If you like gadgets and nice interiors, the TL and RL are fine cars at great values. I haven't driven either but they seem popular. If your driving a TL, remember you got FWD which is not a sporting ride. They may offer the SHAWD in the fall. RL, not the best looking car in the world, is virtually the same as an Accord in size.

In closing, kids grow up fast and a smaller sedan might be feeling small in a few years. Remember a midsize car like the E60 is not that much bigger than the 3 series anyway and it takes time to adjust to a bigger car. Its never too late to reconsider.


Let us know either way.

CVT Benhogan

 

I think the A4/S4 is a good choice however keep in mind the current B6 platform (including the S4) is less than 6-months away from getting the new corporate big mouth grill. So this will either work to your advantage when negotiating on current inventory or you may want to wait until the new cars hit so you?re not driving a car with the soon to be ?old? grill. In addition tail-lights interior etc..are also getting updated.

I've owned 3 B6 Audi's (9 Audi's before that)...and the wife is currently in an allroad...so I'm a bit biased...but for good reason...I've really enjoyed every one of them (but I enjoy my 545 a lot more!). I had to get out of the B6's though...the back seat was just too small to comfortably accomodate my two baby seats

 

S4 is a good option. I own an S6, which is an awesome stealth car! I took a hard look at the S4 before ordering a 545, but I decided against the S4 because of the impending new body style, near worthless Nav, and disappointing resale value.

If you can't wait for the E90, the Mercedes C55 would be a better option - as long as you don't have a problem with having an automatic transmission. G35 is a nice package too, but I think the MB will have more staying power.

 

I saw a ton of S4s on my dealers lot today. I think you could get a good deal on a 04 or 05 and the facelift (or fish mouth lift) car might be something to avoid. Your dead-on about the NAV, which is being addressed collar mouthed version. I think. The resale value might be better down the road, as the S4 is a amazing car. The MB is a bit pricey.....


CVT Benhogan

 

Ok, thanks for all the inputs again !!!

Here are the choices i came down with:

1st Choice Mercedes-Benz C320 Sport Sedan - Comes in Stick Shift, Practical, cost less than than the cars below.

2nd Mercedes-Benz C55 Sport Sedan - Only comes with Automatic but must be fun and powerful.

3rd BMW M3 - Currrent Model - wouldn't mind having it even though the new 3 Series are coming soon because is still a M3 Other thing is 2 door not 4 door so it will make it hard for the baby seats.

4th - Audi S4 - Like it but rather spend money on a BMW or Mercedes Benz. Audi doesn't seem to have that prestige brand name (just my personal opinion but i am sure a lot of you don't think that way)

5th - Mercedes-Benz CLK500 or CLK320 but these car only have 2 Door and its only a 4 seater.


So , which ones seem like a good choice for me ??

Thanks !!!!

 

lol ... nice choices, however figure out what your budget is first, then go from there.

what do you want?

1. $35,000 or $55,000 ?????
2. 2 door or 4 door?
3. sport or comfort?
4. how long will you want to keep the car? (resale value)
5. lease or own (finance/cash)


based on NEW price

MB C320 = $38K
MB C55 = $54K
MB CLK320 = $46K (coupe) & $53.5K (convertible)
MB CLK500 = $54.5K (coupe) & $62K (convertible)

BMW M3 = $47.5K (coupe) & $56K (convertible)

Audi S4 = $46K
Audi S4 Avant = $47.5K
Audi S4 Convertible = $55K


just something to think about ...

--marco

 

there is also the A4 with a 3.0 V6 - its got plenty power, and you can get it in quattor (AWD) - which i would recommend.

The B6 A4's backseat leg room leaves a lttle to be desired - if your an adult. I am also 6'3" !! however for a child seat its plenty, and might actually be very comfy as you can reach to the back easier. The A4 is one of the safest cars out there, drives awesome, and is HIGHEST quality. also has all services included, unlike the '05 MB's.

I traded my '04 A4 1.8t qmt6 Sport & Lux in for the 530. in 11 months i put on 32K miles, mostly highway between south florida & atlanta. took several road trips into the highlands & other mountains/snow last winter (GA, NC, SC, TN, NY) - even with HP summer tires the quattro system kept me fairly well moving along ice & snow. in S Florida we have summer rain where roads have 3" of standing water w/in minutes .. . where other cars go off the road - i kept straight ;-) QUATTRO is awesome.


Which ever car makes you & your family feel safe, comfortable & doesn't break the bank too much! - i'd think.

 

don't bother with c320 and clk320. no way these two cars can compare with bmw. clk500 or c55 has a bigger engine but still doesn't mean it drives as good as bmw. both s4 and m3 are good but m3 isn't too practical since you have baby seats. imo, go with the s4. but if you don't like the name, go with 330 with performance package for now. then switch to something else later on .