Originally Posted by statdoc

I go with the majority here. Get the NON-AWD 3 series, new. You will be in college, busy, and not in a situation to work on it. You need reliability, and a warranty to allow you to get the maintenance and other needed work at no cost. You don't need the gigantic amount of room a S500 gives, and you want something small enough to park on a campus.

Originally Posted by asawadude

Seems to me the AWD is a good choice because of your travels through inclement weather. I'm sure it will make your mom happy. So why aren't the X3 and X5's (E53 or E70) in your mix?

Originally Posted by vinuneuro

2007 330i- you don't need awd!
2004 545i

Originally Posted by xx3

1. 2007 330xi (but as vinuneuro said, you really do not need the xi)


You can't go wrong with a 3 series car. And the E90 seems to be an exceptional vehicle. This is also the latest tech. Buying the Audi is just going to kill you when you see a new 3 passing you on the street. Your going to ask yourself why didn't you go for the 3.

2. 2004 545i

I'd only go for this if you want more space and a lot more power. The downside is its going to be a lot more unreliable then the 330xi. (04 was not a good year for the E60's). Nothing majorly wrong, but lots of little glitches here and there. Avoid the E39's. Great, great cars - but so dated. Again you'll kick yourself for not getting an E60 or an E90.

On another note, how come you want to go for the 6 cylinder bimmer but hold back on the audi and go for the 4? You might want to compare the 6 cylinder audi to the 6 cylinder bimmer.

Also consider the E90 is going to go through some engine revisions very very soon ! (ask scott for details) This could work in your favor either by getting a really sweet deal on a 330xi or by getting a 335xi (although I doubt they will offer xDrive on the 335i but who needs all wheel drive anyway ?!)

My last piece of advice is get out there and drive the cars. We shouldn't be making the decision for you. Its your car so you pick and live with your decision !

Originally Posted by asawadude

Stealing a page out of Sanguru's book, you might think about a certified preowned Audi S4. Looking at your range of vehicles, it would easily fit in your price point. You'll get assurance of AWD in poor weather, and it will be far more car than the Audi A4 2.0T.

Originally Posted by Curious Joel

My mom doesn't want me getting an SUV, SAV, etc.. She thinks it's too big for me

Originally Posted by Eric5273

You have to get over the whole 9/11 thing buddy.

Originally Posted by Winston Churchill

Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery.

Originally Posted by rebound

You can always play the "safety" card on that issue. Bigger car (generally) = better protection in a crash.