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Re: Used BMW's - 2002 and 320

Doug,

Hi!

As an owner of a slightly modified 1968 2002, I'll say that the 2002 is a 
great car to own.  Mechanically, its a bit more simple than a 320i (no 
K-Jetronic fuel injection), and its a better handling car, primarily due to 
its lighter weight.

An automatic version is available, designated the 2002a (introduced after 
1974, I believe), but its worth your while to learn to drive a standard 
transmission.  These cars are much more fun when you get to "mix the soup."

For $2000 you're going to have to shop a bit to find a car (both 320i and 
2002) that's going to be "trouble free." (and rust free!)  By that, I mean 
how much time it will spend in the shop.  Most 320i's in that price range 
are going to have fairly high mileage.  Look for a car that has had a recent 
rebuild by a reputable BMW shop.  Another issue (with manual transmission 
cars) is the synchro wear.  Struts, shocks, and brakes also are wear-prone 
items.  

For the 2002, there is a book available in your local library published by 
"Road & Track" called _Used Car Classic_ that covers 2002's and tells 
specifics to each year, and what to look for when purchasing a 2002.

Have fun,
Erik Frank  
1968 2002 

"Rich is safe, but lean is mean" - Carroll Smith
 
> Hello everyone,
>
> I recently joined the list and I am glad to see so much activity.  I
> am interested in buying a used BMW in the $2000 and under price range.  I
> was thinking perhaps a 2002 or a 320.  Unfortunately, I don't know much
> about car repair, so I am worried about buying used and then being faced
> with the high costs of repair assocciated with BMWs.  I have heard that a
> 2002 handles better than a 320.  It is also my understanding that a 2002
> is a 'classic' car.  Do these cars come in automatic?
> Your opinions on these BMW's and others available in
> that price range would be most appreciated.
> Also, I am interested in the BMW CCA.  Is it worth my while to join?
> How much is membership?  Is their magazine good?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Doug N2QAN
>
> dpr2@domain.elided
> Student - College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
>
> PS - I would buy a nice new M3 but somehow I come up about $30k short :)
>-
> dpr2@domain.elided                 "The advancement and diffusion       
>                                   of knowledge is the only guardian
> Douglas P. Regulinski             of true liberty."                        
      *
>                                                - James Madison
>