1 series coupe vs 3-coupe vs Z4 coupe

[Alext]

Hi,

I am currently looking at purchasing either a 1 or 3-series coupe(not 335i) or a Z4 coupe (not M) (quite a broad range I know). I will be using it as my daily driver and also for long distance driving; something that isnt in the Lotus's job description.

I am interested in anyone's opinion comparing the 1 series coupe to the 3-series coupe and the Z4 coupe.

I know this is a 1-series forum, but it seems to be quite an active forum and I can see people here seem to be friendly enough to give their opinion.

The reason why I am considering a 3-series coupe for about the same price is that a 1 series coupe - esp the 135i - is just an expensive 1-series ...it will always be a 1-series. The 3 also looks quite aesthetically pleasing in the flesh; I have yet to see a 1-coupe. The Z4 coupe I am considering because I have always liked them.

[buckwheat986]

a little searching will go a long way...

but for your needs and if you are keeping the lotus...i would say the 1 or 3 series...

you need to test drive both and see what fits your need better....

both are great series, with 1being a better performer (although debateable as to how much better) and the three having more room and a better value right now (again being debateable)

[WaFu]

If you need to carry 4 people.. 3 series is much comfortable and more leg room in the rear seats.
I would pick the 3 series if I were you. Since you already have a fun car, the other car should be more practical, and the 3 series is a better choice the 1.

[yanks4285]

for a daily driver and long distance driving, would would stick with the 3-series.more room,more comfort.

[Spook]

yes.. I was trying to decide between a Hummer H2, used 1999 Corolla (low miles), and a Mercury Marquis. 135 was the only one with decent leatherette.

[E82tt6]

You wanna carry 4 people all the time, or some of the time?

You care more about fun, or practicality?

That should answer all of your questions :-)

[morscode]

Depends on your size as well, the Z4 is tight inside and can be a little annoying getting in and out as a DD and the firewall behind the seat refrains you from putting your seat in a long distance type of position. Although it's an extremely fun car and gorgeous.

Myself, I'm interested in a bigger car in terms of interior. To be able to have a backseat and throw things in the back, and sometimes take a third passenger is important to me. 3er is out of the question because it just feels way too big and more sluggish to me, although it is more comfortable.

[Moto1]

I was in the same vote with regards to leasing a 128 or 328 coupe - I use the car for business mostly and I will be the only one in the car, except when I have to pick up the kids (3). The lease payment for the 128 are about $100.00 less per month (company likes that) so it was a no brainer - 128. Also having to drive in the city it is nicer to have a smaller car plus it has the power to open up on the highway.

[GT3]

I would go for a 3 series as a DD. Just for that little extra room, comfort, and refinement.

[The Chad]

If you don't need the backseat (and you're considering a Z4, so you don't), then the 3-Series is just a bigger car for no real reason. To me, both have relatively the same amount of comfort behind the driver's seat.

Also, because the 1 is cheaper, you could add more options to it to get to a certain price point, or you could just go super cheap and get a stripped one. Either way, you are looking at a better "value" with the 1. There's no reason why the 1 cannot be a grand tourer.

That being said, the physical looks of the 3-Series vary quite a bit from the 1-Series. Look at both, in person, before deciding. Also, leasing and financing rates through BMW aren't all that hot at the moment on the 1, making the 3 maybe a better value in that respect. The little extra room and refinement of the 3 isn't enough to justify the price tag and performance differential between that and the 3, and coming from an S2000 I think just about anything is luxurious, except maybe an Elise (nice car, BTW).

[Alext]

Thanks for the replies so far. Yes, I am not too worried about the size of the backseat, as it is just me driving.

How do people rate the ride quality and interior quality of the 1 vs the 3-series coupe?

My budget basically stretches to a 323i coupe or a 135i coupe. I have decided against the Z4 coupe because it just stands out that little bit too much for a daily driver.

I am attracted to the 1-series coupe as it is a better proportioned vehicle in my opinion and looks quite maneuverable.

[AlexM105]

Originally Posted by Alext

My budget basically stretches to a 323i coupe or a 135i coupe.

The 135i is much better as far as performance, handling, brakes, etc... The 323i just has some more room.

[BMW Dreamer]

I personally don't like the Z much. Its body is very weird.

I think the comparison for price would be a 135i sport, etc with a 328i coupe sport, which does look very nice. You need to decide what size car you want. The 135i and Z will be more agile, while the 328i will be more adult looking, classy. YOUR CHOICE. If speed/power is VERY important to you, then the 135i is your only choice.

Heres a 328i sport coupe for the same price as the 135i with the same options.

[spudw]

The 1 Series is as close to a 2+2 Z4 as you're ever going to get, and it will be more discreet than the Z4. I prefer the 1er's dash - more driver oriented. The 1er looks much better in person than in photos. Both are excellent choices, but you don't seem to need the extra space a 3 Series offers, so take the one that will be more fun to drive.