BMW 3 Series: Should I trade my 2002 for a 1998?

Asked by BimmerLove May 29, 2020 at 10:09 PM about the BMW 3 Series

Question type: Car Selling & Trading In

So, sorta just wanted some experienced input. I used to own a 1998 318i
BMW with cold weather package. Her name was Stella and I absolutely
loved that car. Was my first car and I was young, so it was a great car to
learn how to maintain as much as I could outside of a mechanic.
Unfortunately she was totaled last year by a careless driver. Had 222k on the
odometer with no real major issues

I currently have a 2002 325xi with cold weather package. Got it for 6,000$
with 93k mileage. Its an all over great car, especially all wheel drive in
southern Ohio, but I regularly miss my old car

Recently came across a listing for a 1998 318i, cold weather package, only
50k mileage, listed for 6,000$ and its in absolute pristine condition. The only
difference is the color and a few interior options. I just paid off my current car
(purchased March 2019) but my heart wants another 1998. It would be a 9hr
drive which isn't great but doesn't deter me.

I can afford a trade in and certainly don't need two cars. As much as I want
the 1998, I worry I would regret trading in my 2002 down the road. But I also
worry I'll regret passing this car up. I rarely see 318i listings this nice, much
less ones I can afford or comfortably drive to. Very torn right now

Have any of you been in this position before?
What did you do and how do you feel about that choice now?

3 Answers

157,505

There will always be a special place in your heart for your first car! But you can never go home again! Life doesn't work that way! You can find the exact same kind of car but it won't be the same. It can have everything the same. Same options, same color as the other car but it won't be the same. It won't feel the same or drive the same because it's a different car. That part of your life is over. You should take pleasure in the fond memories you have of the car and of that time. I would suggest you go see the other car and drive it. I think you'll be disappointed. Enjoy the car you have now in this time and remember your old car and the fun you had with it. The past is a nice place to visit. But you don't want to live there! Hope that helps! Jim

Your current car is a known quantity. The other car is a crap shoot unless you have a BMW mechanic give it a thorough inspection. If you can afford it buy the 98 and keep yours. A spare car comes in handy.

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