Spec me / Buyers Advice - BMW 4 Series

Matt-Page

Matt-Page

Matt-Page

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Joined
23 Nov 2004
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My Dad is looking to buy a BMW 4 Series. He's not given me a lot to go on, but I also known very little about BMW's and know there are some very knowledgeable folk on here about them.

Here's what he has specified:
  • Around 15K budget
  • Petrol
  • Not bothered if Manual or Automatic
  • Not excessive/high mileage
Appreciate any advice/insights on what options to look for, what to avoid, etc. A steer on which of the petrol engines to go for would be good. Glancing at the Wikipedia page I would guess the 420i is underpowered for the size of car!?

Thanks
 
The 420i is fine, just avoid the manual. The automatic is probably the best automatic box you can buy. The 430i has the same engine but with more power.

Is he after an GranCoupe? If so the M Sport ones come with everything you need as standard Inc professional navigation.
 
[TW]Fox said:
The 420i is fine, just avoid the manual. The automatic is probably the best automatic box you can buy. The 430i has the same engine but with more power.

Is he after an GranCoupe? If so the M Sport ones come with everything you need as standard Inc professional navigation.
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Thanks Fox.

Not sure on Coupe vs Gran Coupe. when I asked him he wasn't aware of the difference. I've sent him some links/pictures on that so he can make up his mind on that.
Note taken about the M Sport.

Anyone own one and can offer their opinion on it?
Any things to check/lookout for other than the 'usual'.? I've seen they had recalls/issues with Crank Position sensor and EGR Coolers..., so will keep that in mind/ask if it has been changed.

Autotrader still the best option for looking?

Thanks again.
 
I've got a 2015 gran coupe version. As fox says it's pretty well kitted out from standard. I did opt for the M-sport plus version. The only comment I'd mention is to me it has a very low seating position (compared to the 3 series IMO) so i've found it quite a bit different and struggled to get a real comfy driving position with a small distance from the seat to the floor. Not sure how old your dad is but it may provide difficulty getting in and out of it (and i'm only 33 with an iffy ankle/hip!)

If i were looking to buy again i'd probably look at a 3 or 5 series instead but i opted for the 4GC for the hatchback option.
 
pull2808 said:
I've got a 2015 gran coupe version. As fox says it's pretty well kitted out from standard. I did opt for the M-sport plus version. The only comment I'd mention is to me it has a very low seating position (compared to the 3 series IMO) so i've found it quite a bit different and struggled to get a real comfy driving position with a small distance from the seat to the floor. Not sure how old your dad is but it may provide difficulty getting in and out of it (and i'm only 33 with an iffy ankle/hip!)

If i were looking to buy again i'd probably look at a 3 or 5 series instead but i opted for the 4GC for the hatchback option.
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Thanks. Well, my Dad is considerably older that you! He currently drives either an Audi A4 or an Audi TT. He hasn't driven a 4 Series yet, so i've insisted he goes and drives one for sale locally and ensure he actually like it.

Thanks for the emphasis on the equipment levels. I've found a few websites that detail the spec levels and sent him the detail.

Is 15K a realistic figure of a decent, well looked after example? If it isn't I'll encourage him to up it. He will want something sub 100K miles with BMW or good garage service history.

Thanks again
 
Not too up to speed with what’s available for £15k, but for an idea the warranty cost is £707 with £0 excess and the roadside included, that’s for sub 60k mileage.
 
pull2808 said:
Not too up to speed with what’s available for £15k, but for an idea the warranty cost is £707 with £0 excess and the roadside included, that’s for sub 60k mileage.
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Ok. So, if he can get one, he should consider trying to get a warranty? I'm guessing the car will need full BMW SH for this?
 
He should strongly consider it yes. If the car doesn't have a warranty already he can buy it, but it is more expensive than renewing an existing policy.
 
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