TonkerToy

Thanks all, great advice as I expected!

GSF would be ideal really, obviously fewer about though and I’m personally not sold on the looks (but not a deal breaker).

For context, the car I’ve ordered is an M235i GC. Not a big car but pram and see seat(s) fit in fine.

4 hours ago, Womble72 said:

Think u need to drive both then, unfortunately one will become more expensive over time, I’ve a friend who’s just paid £25k for a 2010 (facelift model) with full history and 50k miles, could be a benchmark for negotiations?……he doesn’t regret the high price purchase at all and had a 2008 one prior……the car is lovely BUT after selling one he’s said this is a keeper as is mine after 7 years of ownership……prices are high on non main dealer cars, Mo was selling his 2010 Mesa red for £17k from memory, not sure if it’s gone though.

That’s good to know, thanks.

I’m aiming to drive them over the next few weeks. I also need to fit a pram in it and although doable, I know the RCF boot is a squeeze.

Thanks both.

I think main dealer would be the way to go for the warranty.

The only problem with a £30k ISF is you’re then not far off an RCF.

8 hours ago, Womble72 said:

Make sure it has a “good service history”…….manifolds have been replaced OR there’s no ticking on cold start up, radiator has been changed (not a common issue BUT the gearbox oil runs within the same unit and corrosion can take place) gearbox will cost u £8k for new one……water pump has been replaced (would imagine all out there have been)……. Check on here as most are known (there’s a couple of “no goes” about)…….other than that they’re pretty bulletproof, expect to get 24-26mpg as a daily on that millage unless your heavy footed, can get 34mpg at a steady 75ish……although great cars expect it to be harder to shift than most cars…….they’re still under the radar compared to the common Merc, BM, Audi etc…….but are far more reliable and fuel efficient.

Thanks for the above - really useful.

I know there aren’t many about at the best of times, so will keep an eye out over the next few weeks.

There’s a 2010 low mileage example at Lexus Swindon in blue on AT. Looks good, but assuming priced at a relative premium as it’s a main dealer…

Hi all,

Thanks for having me!

Long story short, I’ve got a new car on order, due to come in December. In the extended time I’ve been waiting for the car, I’ve been thinking should I bin it off and have one last roll of the metaphorical naturally-aspirated dice.

I’m calling on the wealth of knowledge to confirm what the general consensus is of running an ISF as a daily doing 15k miles a year, if I was to go down this route instead.

Is there a buying guide or some fundamental do’s and don’ts when considering one?

TIA
 

Matt