320cd / 330cd convertible questions....

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Sat 7 Apr 2007 02:20
320cd / 330cd convertible questions.... - Viz
Hi guys....

I'm thinking about buying either the 320cd or 330cd both in convertible form. It would be between the years of 2003 - 2006.
I currently travel about 15,000 - 18,000 miles per year and wondered what costs I may incur through servicing, tyres etc... Fuel isn't a problem really ( I currently drive a 1.8 petrol Focus), but would be interested in the mpg that is possible.

Also, i'd choose the M-Sport model. I know it has 18" wheels, are these a big problem when travelling at speed ?
Should I replace any worn tyres with normal rather than run flats ? And how long roughly do tyres last ?
Do BMW diesel engines sound as rough as other manufacturers engines (not been on a test drive) ?

Any other information would be great, have been reading many threads over the last hour, but not my questions have been covered.

Cheers
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Sat 7 Apr 2007 09:54
320cd / 330cd convertible questions.... - Mad Maxy
I run a latest-shape 320d M Sport Touring - so make your own judgments on the validity of my reply. But I've also driven a 330d.

Can't comment on servicing costs.

Tyre wear is very dependent on how you drive it.

18 inchers not a problem IMO, although the ride will be firm - what you'd expect (want?) from an M Sport. Expect a little tramlining. Also such big diameter wheels are more at risk from kerbing. (I'm on 17s.)

If the car has runflats, replace like with like - it won't have a spare. I find runflats OK.

Engines sound great - for diesels. Four-pot is nice, six is better. But you can't beat a six-cylinder petrol for sound!

If fuel cost isn't an issue, why not go for petrol (but make it at least a 325i)?
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Sat 7 Apr 2007 10:37
320cd / 330cd convertible questions.... - midlifecrisis
The awful run flat tyres were a significant factor in my decision not to purchase a BMW M sport.
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Sat 7 Apr 2007 11:00
320cd / 330cd convertible questions.... - Viz
What makes the run flats awful ?
And does the SE version not have run flats ?
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Sat 7 Apr 2007 10:59
320cd / 330cd convertible questions.... - Viz
Sorry, I should have been clearer about the fuel. I mean I don't mind paying what I already pay, but would prefer to get more mpg, hence the diesel choice.
The petrol 325 would be a nice choice but my round journey to work is 10 miles of streets and 110 miles of motorway. I would choose a petrol model if we had a second deisel car (which still may happen).
Do any of the M Sport Convertibles come with 17" wheels ?
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Sat 7 Apr 2007 13:45
320cd / 330cd convertible questions.... - Mad Maxy
Do any of the M Sport Convertibles come with 17" wheels
?

Don't think so. M Sport on the coupe/conv gives the whole sporty caboodle regardless of engine. You need to do a spot of test-driving...
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