BMW 128i, 370Z, Camaro, Genesis Coupe?

ajc · 03-19-2009, 09:02 AM

OK - There are 4 cars that I am considering (Camaro, 370Z. BMW 128i, Genesis Coupe).

I test drove all but the Camaro.

370Z - The Z is a beautiful car from any way you look at it. When you sit in the car you get such a great feel. Nissan did a great job on the exterior & interior. The Z out on the road is where it goes down hill. I think they forgot to put shocks in the Z, it rides like a a rock, you feel every thing and it's not good on the back. This car was made for the track and that's it. The Z is off my list.

Genesis Coupe - Hyundai did a real nice job with this car. The exterior looks great and the interior is nice. Out on the road is where this car also falls short, not as bad as the 370Z but still harsh for every day driving. The car handles very well. Also off my list.

BMW 128i - Now this is a remarkable driving machine. The exterior is different but looks BMW. The interior is kind of plane but still very nice. When you sit in the BMW you can feel it's a solid well built car. I started the car and the exhaust note put a big grin on my face. The BMW drives beautifully, it handles great and it has a great feel. This is a great driving machine where you want to just drive. This car can be driven as a daily driver because you do not get beat up like the 370Z and the Genesis Coupe. The BMW is definitely on my list. Now I have to drive the Camaro and make my decision

HeyMoe53 · 03-19-2009, 09:09 AM

Did you drive 128 with a stick, or with an auto?

mikead_99 · 03-19-2009, 09:14 AM

The Z is kind of the apple amongst your oranges. If you can live with a 2 seater I would definitely get the Z. I gave up a 350Z to get the back seat, I love what I got in comprimise with the 135i, but miss the feel of a little ground hugging coupe. The new Z would only feel better.

ajc · 03-19-2009, 09:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HeyMoe53

Did you drive 128 with a stick, or with an auto?

Auto

HeyMoe53 · 03-19-2009, 10:04 AM

I drove an auto, too (finding a stick at a dealer does not seem very common). I've read a lot of comments favoring the stick over the auto in a 128. Fortunately, since I live in the "boonies," I really don't have to have an auto. I get to enjoy driving a stick.

I'm looking forward to your comments on the Camaro. Actually, I may drive a G8 GT, just to see if I would like it. It seems to offer a lot for the money, and dealers are pretty much begging you to buy one.

imported_mega · 03-19-2009, 10:04 AM

the auto in the 128 sucks, it's a typical slushbox nothing like the one in the 135i, try one with a stick

jkp1187 · 03-19-2009, 10:17 AM

Thanks for the review. Didn't realize the Genesis Coupe was already at dealerships for test-driving. Where in Pa. did you drive it?

And which Camaro are you considering? The SS is rumored to be putting down some amazing numbers, but even the base model will be interesting. (If you like the retro styling, which personally, I do not.)

The 128i is a fine vehicle - even with the autobox (although as someone pointed out, the auto is NOT as refined as the one in the 135i.)

As an aside, some other cars you may want to consider:
* MINI Cooper S
* Honda Civic Si
* VW Eos or Jetta GLI
* Audi TT coupe

axoid · 03-19-2009, 10:20 AM

The Camaro’s build site went live earlier this week. It’s V6 is impressive, 300hp normally aspirated and rated for 29mph highway. If the car was just smaller and lighter.

Berduderunner · 03-19-2009, 10:25 AM

If you insist on an automatic, go 370Z (with sport package)

gtaday51 · 03-19-2009, 10:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HeyMoe53

I drove an auto, too (finding a stick at a dealer does not seem very common). I've read a lot of comments favoring the stick over the auto in a 128. Fortunately, since I live in the "boonies," I really don't have to have an auto. I get to enjoy driving a stick.

I'm looking forward to your comments on the Camaro. Actually, I may drive a G8 GT, just to see if I would like it. It seems to offer a lot for the money, and dealers are pretty much begging you to buy one.

I drove a G8 Gt and yes its fast as hell. But the Auto in it leaves something to be desired. Its a nice car, but it is big and heavy, and it always reminds you of those facts.

ajc · 03-19-2009, 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Berduderunner

If you insist on an automatic, go 370Z (with sport package)

The 370Z rides too harsh.

135iUSN · 03-19-2009, 11:12 AM

or just go 135 auto and have a blast...or vert LOL

warranty and maintenance is a nice plus

JHZR2 · 03-19-2009, 11:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by axoid

If the car was just smaller and lighter.

I could say the same thing about the 1-series... at least about lighter by a bit...

JHZR2 · 03-19-2009, 11:31 AM

I saw the genesis at the auto show. It was missing something for me. It looked too much of a knockoff between an infiniti g37 coupe and a mitsubishi 3000gt for my tastes, and was just too darn big.

There is a comparisson between the 370Z and the 135i (and a couple other cars) in the latest automobile or car and driver (I forget which). The 370Z wins over the 135i, but not by much - for what that's worth. The comments may or may not be relevant to your situation, but at least it is a few extra data points.

If the 128i stick is anything like the 5-sp in my E30, driving in heavy traffic is a breeze - go with a stick and reap the multiple benefits.

tbird · 03-19-2009, 11:37 AM

Genesis is too new to have a real feeling on its longevity. GM's Camaro, now is definitely not the time to buy an upper-level GM or Chrysler, only the super cheapy models for a beater car. 370Z, yes, other than track, you will get tired of it.

128, you have the power, the luxury, and the almighty warranty!! Nothing like the BMW warranty. Peace-Of-Mind is an option that literally no other car company offers. Even Audi cancelled there's. Well, they still have it but they charge now. All others are limited, and Hyundai plays games with theirs.

HeyMoe53 · 03-19-2009, 12:26 PM

The warranty is certainly a factor. I've been putting off buying a 128 just yet, as I will be inheirting a bit of money later this year, enough to make a downpayment to enable me to take out a four-year loan.

gtaday--I appreciate the big and heavy comment. Kind of reminds me of my own backside!

ptack · 03-19-2009, 02:24 PM

If the 128i made you smile, be happy, but stay away from the 135i. If it's not in your budget, it will torture you night and day.

Heinzftw · 03-19-2009, 02:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ajc

OK - There are 4 cars that I am considering (Camaro, 370Z. BMW 128i, Genesis Coupe).

I test drove all but the Camaro.

370Z - The Z is a beautiful car from any way you look at it. When you sit in the car you get such a great feel. Nissan did a great job on the exterior & interior. The Z out on the road is where it goes down hill. I think they forgot to put shocks in the Z, it rides like a a rock, you feel every thing and it's not good on the back. This car was made for the track and that's it. The Z is off my list.

Genesis Coupe - Hyundai did a real nice job with this car. The exterior looks great and the interior is nice. Out on the road is where this car also falls short, not as bad as the 370Z but still harsh for every day driving. The car handles very well. Also off my list.

BMW 128i - Now this is a remarkable driving machine. The exterior is different but looks BMW. The interior is kind of plane but still very nice. When you sit in the BMW you can feel it's a solid well built car. I started the car and the exhaust note put a big grin on my face. The BMW drives beautifully, it handles great and it has a great feel. This is a great driving machine where you want to just drive. This car can be driven as a daily driver because you do not get beat up like the 370Z and the Genesis Coupe. The BMW is definitely on my list. Now I have to drive the Camaro and make my decision

I would definitely recommend you to drive the G8 GXP or pick up a used 6.0 GTO.

AlienDNA · 03-19-2009, 07:06 PM

I'll be interested, too, to hear how the Camaro drives. Sitting in one, it feels quite a bit bigger and darker than the 1-series, although a sunroof might help if they offer one (does anyone else miss T-tops? Nah, I didn't think so.

). From inside, the cowl on the Camaro is much higher and wider, and the C-pillars and small windows make for a more bunker-like feeling: very pre-'82 Camaro feeling.

That's too bad about the Genesis. I think it's a very attractive car - much better than the contrived look of the 370Z - and I think they'll sell a boatload of them here in Canada. Unfortunately, they didn't have a floor model at the show in Toronto, so I didn't get a chance to see what it's like inside. It sure has the specs on paper and the body, though.

gtaday51 · 03-19-2009, 07:23 PM

I have seen several 370Zs on the road in several colors. I think it it butt ugly. I don't get the design of Japanse cars in general. At least I can see the appeal in American Muscle cars (hell I almost bought a Roush Stage 3 Mustang) but Nissans, ehh.

Gray135i · 03-19-2009, 07:33 PM

Does the car have to be new, or are you considering any used cars as well? There are some great deals on 08 models with less than 10k miles especially with the Corvettes.

BForbes · 03-19-2009, 07:38 PM

I really think Chevy did a great job with the new Camaro. I mean it has the same mpg figures as the BMW 135i. 17city 25mpg for a 30k 430hp SS is pretty amazing. Its 'ring time is in the arena of 8:19-22sec. Thats faster than the E46 M3 and is identical to the Lexus IS-F. When its all said and done, I wouldnt buy one new. I would expect the value to tank after a year. That engine is SUPER friendly to bolt ons as well.

03-19-2009, 09:02 AM	#1
ajc Enlisted Member 11 Rep 38 Posts Drives: . Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: mo iTrader: (0)	BMW 128i, 370Z, Camaro, Genesis Coupe? OK - There are 4 cars that I am considering (Camaro, 370Z. BMW 128i, Genesis Coupe). I test drove all but the Camaro. 370Z - The Z is a beautiful car from any way you look at it. When you sit in the car you get such a great feel. Nissan did a great job on the exterior & interior. The Z out on the road is where it goes down hill. I think they forgot to put shocks in the Z, it rides like a a rock, you feel every thing and it's not good on the back. This car was made for the track and that's it. The Z is off my list. Genesis Coupe - Hyundai did a real nice job with this car. The exterior looks great and the interior is nice. Out on the road is where this car also falls short, not as bad as the 370Z but still harsh for every day driving. The car handles very well. Also off my list. BMW 128i - Now this is a remarkable driving machine. The exterior is different but looks BMW. The interior is kind of plane but still very nice. When you sit in the BMW you can feel it's a solid well built car. I started the car and the exhaust note put a big grin on my face. The BMW drives beautifully, it handles great and it has a great feel. This is a great driving machine where you want to just drive. This car can be driven as a daily driver because you do not get beat up like the 370Z and the Genesis Coupe. The BMW is definitely on my list. Now I have to drive the Camaro and make my decision
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03-19-2009, 09:09 AM	#2
HeyMoe53 Captain 64 Rep 671 Posts Drives: '17 M240 AW/Coral MT Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Central PA iTrader: (0)	Did you drive 128 with a stick, or with an auto?
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03-19-2009, 09:14 AM	#3
mikead_99 Second Lieutenant 6 Rep 201 Posts Drives: 08 SMG 135i Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: NoVA iTrader: (1)	The Z is kind of the apple amongst your oranges. If you can live with a 2 seater I would definitely get the Z. I gave up a 350Z to get the back seat, I love what I got in comprimise with the 135i, but miss the feel of a little ground hugging coupe. The new Z would only feel better. __________________ 135i ....
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03-19-2009, 10:04 AM	#5
HeyMoe53 Captain 64 Rep 671 Posts Drives: '17 M240 AW/Coral MT Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Central PA iTrader: (0)	I drove an auto, too (finding a stick at a dealer does not seem very common). I've read a lot of comments favoring the stick over the auto in a 128. Fortunately, since I live in the "boonies," I really don't have to have an auto. I get to enjoy driving a stick. I'm looking forward to your comments on the Camaro. Actually, I may drive a G8 GT, just to see if I would like it. It seems to offer a lot for the money, and dealers are pretty much begging you to buy one.
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03-19-2009, 10:04 AM	#6
imported_mega Colonel 124 Rep 2,201 Posts Drives: various bmw's Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: neverland iTrader: (0)	the auto in the 128 sucks, it's a typical slushbox nothing like the one in the 135i, try one with a stick __________________ You only need two tools in life - WD-40 and Duct Tape. If it doesn't move and should, use the WD-40. If it shouldn't move and does, use the duct tape. Driving e82, e72, e85, R53 Gone but not forgotten.. 1974 2002, many various 3s.
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03-19-2009, 10:17 AM	#7
jkp1187 Unindicted co-conspirator 66 Rep 1,734 Posts Drives: to work, mostly. Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania / Detroit, Michigan iTrader: (0)	Thanks for the review. Didn't realize the Genesis Coupe was already at dealerships for test-driving. Where in Pa. did you drive it? And which Camaro are you considering? The SS is rumored to be putting down some amazing numbers, but even the base model will be interesting. (If you like the retro styling, which personally, I do not.) The 128i is a fine vehicle - even with the autobox (although as someone pointed out, the auto is NOT as refined as the one in the 135i.) As an aside, some other cars you may want to consider: * MINI Cooper S * Honda Civic Si * VW Eos or Jetta GLI * Audi TT coupe
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03-19-2009, 10:20 AM	#8
axoid Private First Class 13 Rep 194 Posts Drives: '09 128i Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Columbus, Oh iTrader: (0)	The Camaro’s build site went live earlier this week. It’s V6 is impressive, 300hp normally aspirated and rated for 29mph highway. If the car was just smaller and lighter. __________________ Bill [92 Camaro RS (Autocross ESP / Trackrat) \| 09 BMW 128i Sport Package]
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03-19-2009, 10:25 AM	#9
Berduderunner drk one 38 Rep 797 Posts Drives: 2008 135i Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Tampa/Orlando iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 e90 335i [0.00] 2008 135i [0.00]	If you insist on an automatic, go 370Z (with sport package) __________________ Jet Black \| Coral \| HighGlossBlack \| Steptronic \| Premium \| Sport \| Comfort \| ActiveSteering \| Navi \| HiFi \| HD \| iPod \| SAT BMS JB3 v2.0 \| BMS DCI \| Berk Tech Sport Exhaust \| UR * DPs \| CoolingMist Meth Kit w/ CMGS \| H&R OE Sport Springs \| Breyton GTS-R \| Dunlop Direzza Sport Z1 Star Specs \| GP Thunder 8000K Low Beams/Angel Eyes/Cornering Lights \| LED Interior Light Kit \| Window Tint \| Smoked Tail Lights \| Smoked License Plate Cover
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03-19-2009, 11:12 AM	#12
135iUSN 19 X5 1998 M Roadster 64 Rep 1,503 Posts Drives: 135i Alpine White / Terra Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: SW Florida iTrader: (1) Garage List 1998 BMW M Roadster [0.00] 2009 135i [0.00]	or just go 135 auto and have a blast...or vert LOL warranty and maintenance is a nice plus __________________ '09 135i Dinan In BMW heaven 09.28.2022 - Stage 2/Alpine White w/Terracotta /High Gloss Black Trim/ZCW/ZPP/ZSP w/313's /CA/PDC/Steptronic/
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03-19-2009, 11:31 AM	#14
JHZR2 Major 74 Rep 1,001 Posts Drives: 91 E30, 11 135i cv Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: New Jersey iTrader: (0)	I saw the genesis at the auto show. It was missing something for me. It looked too much of a knockoff between an infiniti g37 coupe and a mitsubishi 3000gt for my tastes, and was just too darn big. There is a comparisson between the 370Z and the 135i (and a couple other cars) in the latest automobile or car and driver (I forget which). The 370Z wins over the 135i, but not by much - for what that's worth. The comments may or may not be relevant to your situation, but at least it is a few extra data points. If the 128i stick is anything like the 5-sp in my E30, driving in heavy traffic is a breeze - go with a stick and reap the multiple benefits.
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03-19-2009, 11:37 AM	#15
tbird Captain 31 Rep 683 Posts Drives: "Bianca" 135cic AW/TC Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: FLL iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 135cic [0.00]	Genesis is too new to have a real feeling on its longevity. GM's Camaro, now is definitely not the time to buy an upper-level GM or Chrysler, only the super cheapy models for a beater car. 370Z, yes, other than track, you will get tired of it. 128, you have the power, the luxury, and the almighty warranty!! Nothing like the BMW warranty. Peace-Of-Mind is an option that literally no other car company offers. Even Audi cancelled there's. Well, they still have it but they charge now. All others are limited, and Hyundai plays games with theirs. __________________ 2008 135cic, Alpine White/Terracotta Leather/BlackTop, Premium Package (Bluetooth, folding mirrors, etc), Sport Package with M Wheel, Navigation, Logic7 with HD and IPod and Sirius, Steptronic, M Aerodynamic Kit 2001 Focus ZX3, modified for fun commuting Previous 2006 325xi 2002 Audi A4 3.0 Quattro 1997 Audi A4 2.8 Quattro 1984 Audi 4000S Quattro modified 1955 Ford Thunderbird 1969 Camaro modified 1993 Ford Explorer (basic hauling) 1984+1988 Ford Broncos 1993 Honda Civic (Commuter, junk) 2008 Mini (wife's car, AWESOME) A few more
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03-19-2009, 12:26 PM	#16
HeyMoe53 Captain 64 Rep 671 Posts Drives: '17 M240 AW/Coral MT Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Central PA iTrader: (0)	The warranty is certainly a factor. I've been putting off buying a 128 just yet, as I will be inheirting a bit of money later this year, enough to make a downpayment to enable me to take out a four-year loan. gtaday--I appreciate the big and heavy comment. Kind of reminds me of my own backside!
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03-19-2009, 02:24 PM	#17
ptack Brigadier General 269 Rep 4,470 Posts Drives: 135i Join Date: May 2008 Location: NJ iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 135i [6.50]	If the 128i made you smile, be happy, but stay away from the 135i. If it's not in your budget, it will torture you night and day. __________________ 135i, SGM, Coral, Sport Package, Auto, Premium Hifi, USB/ipod, Apex EC-7s, PPK Stage II
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03-19-2009, 07:06 PM	#19
AlienDNA Second Lieutenant 4 Rep 280 Posts Drives: 2008 135i LeMans Blue Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Margaritaville iTrader: (0)	I'll be interested, too, to hear how the Camaro drives. Sitting in one, it feels quite a bit bigger and darker than the 1-series, although a sunroof might help if they offer one (does anyone else miss T-tops? Nah, I didn't think so. ). From inside, the cowl on the Camaro is much higher and wider, and the C-pillars and small windows make for a more bunker-like feeling: very pre-'82 Camaro feeling. That's too bad about the Genesis. I think it's a very attractive car - much better than the contrived look of the 370Z - and I think they'll sell a boatload of them here in Canada. Unfortunately, they didn't have a floor model at the show in Toronto, so I didn't get a chance to see what it's like inside. It sure has the specs on paper and the body, though. __________________ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 2008 135i Performance suspension, exhaust, grilles, front bumper, skirts, shift kit, spoiler. M3 front control arms, rear subframe bushings. Cobb'd.
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03-19-2009, 07:23 PM	#20
gtaday51 gone but not forgotten 35 Rep 985 Posts Drives: gone 135 - Hello 1M! Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: The Big Apple iTrader: (0)	I have seen several 370Zs on the road in several colors. I think it it butt ugly. I don't get the design of Japanse cars in general. At least I can see the appeal in American Muscle cars (hell I almost bought a Roush Stage 3 Mustang) but Nissans, ehh. __________________ Our Lady of Blessed Acceleration don't fail me now.
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03-19-2009, 07:33 PM	#21
Gray135i Private First Class 15 Rep 138 Posts Drives: 2008 135i Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: East of the Mississippi iTrader: (0)	Does the car have to be new, or are you considering any used cars as well? There are some great deals on 08 models with less than 10k miles especially with the Corvettes.
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03-19-2009, 07:38 PM	#22
BForbes Moderator 563 Rep 4,240 Posts Drives: BSM 135i/AW E90 M3 Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Orlando, FL iTrader: (0)	I really think Chevy did a great job with the new Camaro. I mean it has the same mpg figures as the BMW 135i. 17city 25mpg for a 30k 430hp SS is pretty amazing. Its 'ring time is in the arena of 8:19-22sec. Thats faster than the E46 M3 and is identical to the Lexus IS-F. When its all said and done, I wouldnt buy one new. I would expect the value to tank after a year. That engine is SUPER friendly to bolt ons as well. __________________ - 04 Honda S2000(gone)
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