That was helpful feedback about the 30si.
I test drove the '08 and that almost could not have gone worse. Three engine sounded bad like bad bearing on alternator. Ran ok but as suggested it felt very sluggish compared to my '01.
Worse: transfer case internal fault! 4x4 abs/brake/DSC lights! Are you kidding me!??
So that was a total bust.
However:
2011 35i.
Test drove. Smoothest quietest engine on a used car I've ever tested. Clean like new inside ran like a top. More miles than I hoped but TEN YEARS Newer than my '01 it will replace! There needed to be a trade off (miles) to get remotely close to my budget. (had to borrow an extra $2k to cover the $2700 difference in price)
The power boost is much appreciated. Not insane like wife's 50i but definitely enough to toss the car around and get where you want in typical traffic. Partly due to the 8 speed transmission.
Money no object I'd look a little harder and get a 35d. Good chance that will be the next update for wife or me.
61,000 mile rewind on the odometer is about five years for me.
Pick it up on the 12th.