Ebimor96:
Greetings to all Cartalk Gurus and enthusiasts in the house.

I was on the verge of getting a 2006 Corolla but a friend asked me to go for a 3 series Beemer instead, pointing at its durability, ruggedness, performance, even fuel efficiency inter alia.

From the way this guy analysed the aesthetics of this particular German brand, I almost lost my interest in the Corolla, because he practically made me fall in love with the BMW 3 series.

In order not to lose guard, P kindly help review and compare the 2002 BMW 3 series (particularly the inline 4 transmission, if any) with the 2003 Toyota Corolla.

Your reviews and direct comparisons will go a long way in helping me make an informed decision/choice between the two brands.

Thanks in anticipation of your highly respected and informed opinions.

God bless #Cartalkers.

Don't do it.
I'm a fan of German cars but there's no doubt that other fans like to act like their cars are the best. BMWs don't exactly have a record of reliability.

That said, apart from reliability, the 3 series is a much better car than the Corolla, well, in pretty much everything..

Why not get a C Class? Best of both worlds. Honda Civics are also nice.

Jabia:


Thanks ma'am. I looked through some of your topics and you struck a cord:

How much do the following cost for an RX350, MDX and RAV 4?:

*Tire Rotor/brake pads
*Tires
*Shocks
*Fuel pump
*Starter coil

I've tried using your car parts size and to get rough estimates, no dice (perhaps because I'm not really good at this )

Tanchu!

EDIT:

How does the RDX compare against the MDX? Any for/against(s).

Big hugs to Baby Radu!

What years are you considering? Email support@radautoworks.com. The RDX is the cuter little brother to the MDX. It also comes standard with more equipment. There are only two versions. Base or all out. Faster and more sporty than the MDX.

I'm about to get a three row Highlander hopefully because of Baby Radu. (Notice I'm not going for MDX). We don't fit in RDX anymore still keeping my baby though. Bought same vehicle 2007 and 2014 and would have bought it again if not for the growing family. Was never a Honda/Acura person before it. Also btw, people complain about Honda legs. I've had my car in Nigeria for almost four years and the only thing I've done is replace the tires and I now need a catalytic converter. My car was a new 2014 so yes, low maintenance.

HeavenlyBang:


Foreign used. Wouldn't trust that M272 in the hands of the average Nigerian mechanic. Save yourself future stress. Ensure you have the service records/carfax of the car.

I'm curious, though. Why didn't you go for an Elantra or TL?

Well, the 07 will be more reliable than the 08. Ball joint issues are probably the exception. 08 is a first year model and I think the i4 had issues with burning oil.

Why not a 2009?

My knowledge on the 08+ generation of Accords isn't the best.

Cc: Nurey

I test drove the 07 c230 at a dealershop and fell in love with its handling and performance. I admit I am biased because I've always admired German machines and craftsmanship. Are you saying the other two are better options?

sKeetz:


I test drove the 07 c230 at a dealershop and fell in love with its handling and performance. I admit I am biased because I've always admired German machines and craftsmanship. Are you saying the other two are better options?

Oh, no. The 2007 C230 is beauty. Check if it falls within the range of engines with the balance shaft defect, or if it has been fixed.

The same budget would give you a TL with way more power and nicer, more solid interior. It'd also give you a newer Elantra with better technology.

That said, nothing wrong with the 2007 C230.

radautoworks:


What years are you considering? Email support@radautoworks.com. The RDX is the cuter little brother to the MDX. It also comes standard with more equipment. There are only two versions. Base or all out. Faster and more sporty than the MDX.

I'm about to get a three row Highlander hopefully because of Baby Radu. (Notice I'm not going for MDX). We don't fit in RDX anymore still keeping my baby though. Bought same vehicle 2007 and 2014 and would have bought it again if not for the growing family. Was never a Honda/Acura person before it. Also btw, people complain about Honda legs. I've had my car in Nigeria for almost four years and the only thing I've done is replace the tires and I now need a catalytic converter. My car was a new 2014 so yes, low maintenance.

I'm curious about the 2007. Did you use it in Nigeria? What was gas mileage like? How long did you use it? It's Honda's first mainstream turbo engine, I think, did it give any troubles?

HeavenlyBang:


I'm curious about the 2007. Did you use it in Nigeria? What was gas mileage like? How long did you use it? It's Honda's first mainstream turbo engine, I think, did it give any troubles?

It was a turbo and mileage sucked! But damn it was fun to drive and easy to see why mileage sucked lol. Bought the 2007 pre-owned from a dealership in 2010 and used till I replaced it in 2013. Only used in America. No troubles which is why I went ahead and bought a new one (wait. Forgot I had to replace ac compressor shortly after I got it but that was it).

Only got rid of it because I had a run of bad luck and had three accidents in as many months. None my fault rear-ended all three times!

radautoworks:


It was a turbo and mileage sucked! But damn it was fun to drive and easy to see why mileage sucked lol. Bought the 2007 pre-owned in 2010 and used till I replaced it in 2013. Only used in America. No troubles which is why I went ahead and bought a new one (wait. Forgot I had to replace ac compressor shortly after I got it but that was it).

Only got rid of it because I had a run of bad luck and had three accidents in as many months. None my fault rear-ended all three times!

Ah, just as expected. Was among my choices for my next car but everything I've seen till this point tells me it won't go easy on my wallet in terms of gas mileage. Shame. I actually like the car.

Thanks!

HeavenlyBang:


Ah, just as expected. Was among my choices for my next car but everything I've seen till this point tells me it won't go easy on my wallet in terms of gas mileage. Shame. I actually like the car.

Thanks!

It's not so bad. You'll be able to handle it. Give it a shot. You won't regret it. Or simply don't get the turbo

radautoworks:


It's not so bad. You'll be able to handle it. Give it a shot. You won't regret it. Or simply don't get the turbo

Wait, I thought all them were turbo'd? 2007 - 2010 or so, i4 turbo'd K24 doing 240HP or so?

radautoworks:


What years are you considering? Email support@radautoworks.com. The RDX is the cuter little brother to the MDX. It also comes standard with more equipment. There are only two versions. Base or all out. Faster and more sporty than the MDX.

I'm about to get a three row Highlander hopefully because of Baby Radu. (Notice I'm not going for MDX). We don't fit in RDX anymore still keeping my baby though. Bought same vehicle 2007 and 2014 and would have bought it again if not for the growing family. Was never a Honda/Acura person before it. Also btw, people complain about Honda legs. I've had my car in Nigeria for almost four years and the only thing I've done is replace the tires and I now need a catalytic converter. My car was a new 2014 so yes, low maintenance.

You don't drive where we drive
And you bought brand new, most complaints are on Honda cars aged over 10 years.

If you know you know

Pls do a comparison amongst 2012 Lexus Gx460, 2013 Toyota Landcruiser and 2013 Lexus LX570. Thanks

HeavenlyBang:


Don't do it.
I'm a fan of German cars but there's no doubt that other fans like to act like their cars are the best. BMWs don't exactly have a record of reliability.

That said, apart from reliability, the 3 series is a much better car than the Corolla, well, in pretty much everything..

Why not get a C Class? Best of both worlds. Honda Civics are also nice.

Thanks for the prompt response Sir, but can you be a bit more detailed please?

Thank you very much Sir.

Ebimor96:

Thanks for the prompt response Sir, but can you be a bit more detailed please?

Thank you very much Sir.

3 series is nice to drive but Beemers have terrible reliability. If you're willing to put up with any issues the BMW throws at you, buy it. It's a much better car than the Corolla, reliability aside.

Or you can get a Mercedes W203 C Class. More reliable than the Beemer and still a considerably better car than the Corolla.

thebigkendo:


You don't drive where we drive
And you bought brand new, most complaints are on Honda cars aged over 10 years.

If you know you know

My 2014 had been driven in Nigeria for a few years and no issues. Others in my family drive Honda products and not a single "leg pull"

radautoworks:


My 2014 had been driven in Nigeria for a few years and no issues. Others in my family drive Honda products and not a single "leg pull"

I guess they don't also drive where Obekediamondfuto & Co drive

I presently use a honda & never experienced the "legpull" and i personally don't know anybody who has ever experienced it but i see alot of honda accords with the "leg pull"

HeavenlyBang:


Wait, I thought all them were turbo'd? 2007 - 2010 or so, i4 turbo'd K24 doing 240HP or so?

You are right. It's the SH-AWD that was optional and came with the tech package. Don't know what I was thinking.
My bad!

thebigkendo:


I guess they don't also drive where Obekediamondfuto & Co drive

I presently use a honda & never experienced the "legpull" and i personally don't know anybody who has ever experienced it but i see alot of honda accords with the "leg pull"

oga forget all the talk.... people experience it and more than 50 percent of those people are Honda accord users so...... statistics do not lie just because u want it to....

the other argument On the other thread needs ur urgent attention

radautoworks:


It's not so bad. You'll be able to handle it. Give it a shot. You won't regret it. Or simply don't get the turbo

My bad. Not an option till 2013. Corrected by HeavenlyBang.

obekediamondfuto:


oga forget all the talk, and don't involve me........
focus on the other people.

how are we sure u have not experienced it? by talk? abegi..... make we hear word! u think say na lekki vi ikoyi axis?

everytime u keep bringing out an already thrashed issue ....

abegi, I'm on the low now, focus on the former argument u were making.... I am very interested.

How are we sure you have experienced it also? By talk? Abegi

You can always ignore mentions you are not interested in.. Like i do.

Which former argument sir? Abeg mention me for the thread

thebigkendo:


How are we sure you have experienced it also? By talk? Abegi

Which former argument sir?

the way u carry it on ur head shows u r trying to prove a point....

any point that needs too hard a try before it is proven (like forcing the proof) is not worth the proof..... most times.....

OK let's assume I haven't experienced it before..... others here nko.... should we open a thread?

obekediamondfuto:


oga forget all the talk.... people experience it and more than 50 percent of those people are Honda accord users so...... statistics do not lie just because u want it to....

the other argument On the other thread needs ur urgent attention

the.bigkendo:


I guess they don't also drive where Obekediamondfuto & Co drive

I presently use a honda & never experienced the "legpull" and i personally don't know anybody who has ever experienced it but i see alot of honda accords with the "leg pull"

Bros you are just repeating what i said

You were so defensive, you did not finish reading what I wrote

Abeg mention me for the other thread na

HeavenlyBang:


Ah, just as expected. Was among my choices for my next car but everything I've seen till this point tells me it won't go easy on my wallet in terms of gas mileage. Shame. I actually like the car.

Thanks!

It won't go easy on your wallet into terms of cost of fuelling. If aunty radu can complain of the rdx used in the USA where premium fuel is available, the MDX will suck you dry in Nigeria where you may never get premium fuel. My mdx mpg sucks badly. No check engine, no mechanical or electrical issues. Its just in their nature.

Ebimor96:

Thanks for the prompt response Sir, but can you be a bit more detailed please?

Thank you very much Sir.

In plain terms, he corolla can manage your regular 20w50, your beamer will eventually grenade.
Your corrola can tolerate one or two overheating episodes after your kazeem has wired your fan direct and your relay burnt out, your beamer will warp its top and toast the gasket.
You won't get much suspension issues with the e46 beamer though, its built like a tank. The corola is also sturdy but can't withstand potholes as well as the beamer.
The beamer is rear wheel and with an almost 50/50 weight balance can get you out of tight situations if you are a bit skilled in driving, the corola will plow into anything its facing as soon as it loses its grip on the road.
Beamer parts are cheaper. Corola parts not so. The corola na thief magnet. No one would go near your beamer. The choice is yours.
If you use the right oil and filter and avoid crazy rewires, the beamer will be okay for you.
If you are going to skimp on any of the above, go for the corolla.

9icetoo:

It won't go easy on your wallet into terms of cost of fuelling. If aunty radu can complain of the rdx used in the USA where premium fuel is available, the MDX will suck you dry in Nigeria where you may never get premium fuel. My mdx mpg sucks badly. No check engine, no mechanical or electrical issues. Its just in their nature.

Yeah, I've seen MDXs here doing 12mpg. Same as yours, no CEL, no issues. Completely astonishing.

Please help in choosing between a 2005 Volvo XC90 T5 and a 2006 Nissan Pathfinder.
Reliability availability of parts and utility are my major considerations.

***

HRtechnique:
Bosses, what are the things to be done during a car servicing?
Cc Nurey, HeavenlyBang, RadAutoWorks

Different kinds of servicing.

HeavenlyBang:


Yeah, I've seen MDXs here doing 12mpg. Same as yours, no CEL, no issues. Completely astonishing.

Lol. As if you looked at my mpg. Been at 12 all week. Down to 11.5 now after SME traffic yesterday.
Coming from a city and Skoda that does 25 mpg comfortably, it is quite shocking.

9icetoo:

Lol. As if you looked at my mpg. Been at 12 all week. Down to 11.5 now after SME traffic yesterday.
Coming from a city and Skoda that does 25 mpg comfortably, it is quite shocking.

I feel your pain. Only good thing is that the MDX is just a nice cozy place to be in. Really comfortable. You could almost forgive the atrocious MPG.

Cc: Greenhulk, what's your TL's gas mileage like?

9icetoo:

In plain terms, he corolla can manage your regular 20w50, your beamer will eventually grenade.
Your corrola can tolerate one or two overheating episodes after your kazeem has wired your fan direct and your relay burnt out, your beamer will warp its top and toast the gasket.
You won't get much suspension issues with the e46 beamer though, its built like a tank. The corola is also sturdy but can't withstand potholes as well as the beamer.
The beamer is rear wheel and with an almost 50/50 weight balance can get you out of tight situations if you are a bit skilled in driving, the corola will plow into anything its facing as soon as it loses its grip on the road.
Beamer parts are cheaper. Corola parts not so. The corola na thief magnet. No one would go near your beamer. The choice is yours.
If you use the right oil and filter and avoid crazy rewires, the beamer will be okay for you.
If you are going to skimp on any of the above, go for the corolla.

Wow... thanks for the enlightenment Sir.


So if only I can stick to the right and approved maintenance procedures, oil, filters and ensure I avoid unqualified service personnel, the Beemer would serve me well.
This is fantastic.

Please kindly look into the fuel efficiency of the 3 series when compared to the Corolla.
It's quite important too Sir.

Regards.

You guys are doing a great job.

I am a novice just trying to be in the know, will be buying my first car soon, don't want to regret the choice I am going to make so need to seek people's opinions and advice.

I once seek people's opinions on nairaland about 2002 - 2007 mercedes benz c class and 2007 - 2011 Toyota camry. Though I like benz but I chose 2010/2011 Toyota Camry V6 SE because of its sporty look.

After making my choice then with what I have learnt from this tread and recent research please I need a comparison/recommendation between 2010/2011 Toyota Camry V6 SE and 2008 - 2010 Lexus ES350 V6.

Thanks in anticipation.

CC:

HeavenlyBang
Nurey
Obekediamondfoto
Thebigkendo