Friday I'm going to look at/drive a '93 BMW 325is. If the price is right (about what I figure my CSVT is worth) and it checks out I think I'm going to bring it home. It's a tough decision though. Here's my thoughts on replacing the CSVT with the BMW:
PROS:
* About 32k fewer miles
* It's a BMW! What the CSVT always wanted to be. Stock vs. stock, very similar HP & TQ and performance #s.
* Conforti chip = +20 HP & TQ for around $250.
* If it's like the high-mileage '95 325is I drove today it'll handle as well as my CSVT but ride much better
* Body is in better shape than my CSVT (minor rust is starting to creep in)
* RWD, 'nuf said
* I6 vs. V6 - no contest
* Aftermarket only Honda can rival
* I'm already a member of the BMWCCA
* Sure is pretty, and did I mention it's a BMW? I always wanted one...
CONS:
* I know everything about my CSVT from its birth, and I know where the warts are and the potential problems are down the road
* Not as exclusive as an SVT
* A/C does not work at all on the BMW, it's only leaking on my CSVT
* RWD in Rochester winters (though it does come with snow tires)
* Space is actually better in the CSVT, especially headroom and rear seat room, and the trunk is bigger too
* I have 2 kids w/ car seats who occasionally have to ride in my car, and that's a pain in the butt with a 2-door coupe
* Its already 11 years old
* I'll have to learn the quirks of another car
* No forum nearly as good at this one for BMWs
What do you say? Chances are there'll be a relatively cheap CSVT in the classifieds in a week or so...
Scott
