Thanks a bunch, everyone! Yes, I really like the color too, especially how the black bumpers are lower contrast. Some people like the contrasty lighter colors, but I prefer the full darker look, even though I think it will be more difficult to keep clean. I have already noticed a light coating of dust from our employer's driveway (in the picture above). Sorry, but my driveway and garage look like the pictures below. Though I know what you mean about having lots of projects! Our kitchen table has been out of commission for months due to model helicopter repairs.....
On price, I did a bunch of research and got a few quotes. I ended up paying $800 over invoice, which I thought was reasonable. I figured $500 would have been the absolute lowest a dealer in my area would accept (seeing that BMW doesn't do kickback), so I don't feel like I paid too much.
Tires are 235/55 all-season Michelins and the wheels are the stock 17 inch rims, no special options or anything. I think they're pretty nice too, although I think most of the BMW rims look good.
I didn't get the sport package for a few reasons. It comes with 18" rims and summer-only tires, which I didn't want. Plus the biggest criticism I read of the X3 was that it was too stiff with the sport package. I realize it's all relative -- I couldn't imagine it being stiffer/harsher ride than my boyfriend's VW R32! But I do a lot of freeway driving to get to the mountains, plus the local roads are full of potholes. So I decided to go for a bit more cush. Also, I thought that the sport suspension might have a bit less ground clearance, but I'm not sure about that one.
Thanks again for the kind words! It's really fun to drive!
05-08-2005, 03:19 AM
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