Hello.
I am going to buy my first BMW. I am going to buy a used 2003 model 325 next month. I am considering two sedan models: 325i or 325xi.
All things being equal, the only differnece that I am aware of is the all-wheel-drive of the xi vs the rear-wheel-drive of the i.
I will retain my 1993 Toyota SR5 p/u for winter snow driving (I live in the Northeast; northshore area of Boston), so the BMW generally shouldn't be driven in the snow. But, that said, there may well be times when driving my pickup isn't in the cards (i.e.: kids with me; on a date); which means the BMW might see snow.
My question is really this: how much sport driving enthusiams do I give up if I get the xi; would it drive much different?
I wouldn't say I'm a huge drive like a race fan, but I also don't want to sacrafice the supreme performance of the well known 325i for the sake of better traction for a few days in the snow.
I realize that should I ever try to re-sell the car, the xi would be easier to sell in the Northeast.
Last year I lived in Ireland for 7 months, and drove a Saab 9-3. Liked it, but didn't love it. Now that I have the cash to buy a second vehicle, I want a 4 door, absolute fun to drive, quality sedan. The BMW from all accounts is THE choice. Always have wanted a BMW since I could reach a gas pedal.
Thoughts? Any and all welcome.
... Ralph