E46 BMW 330 ZHP Buyers Corner -- Is it a good deal?

[BMWCurves]

Hey! In the market for a 330i and found this in Florida. Thoughts?

http://www.idrivegreatcars.com/2005_BMW_3%20Series_Miami%20Gardens_FL_254503817.v eh

Thanks so much!!!

CarFax is clean, although car checks like that aren't infallible. The car has been in Florida its entire life it seems. Mileage is decent but you'll have to ask about maintenance history to see what maintenance items have been done (cooling system overhaul, oil change frequency, brakes, suspension, spark plugs, etc). It's Oriental Blue (color of my car, I love it) on cloth/alcantara interior so it'll be up to you if you like that or not. It has neither the Cold Weather Package (heated front seats, headlight washers, fold down rear seats, ski bag) nor the Premium Package (lumbar support, auto dimming rearview mirror, BMW assist, leather upholstery). This particular car doesn't have the OEM style 135 wheels (I'm not sure if the wheels pictured are OEM BMW or not).

Overall the car looks relatively clean, no visible huge or dents from the photos. There are a few odds and ends that'll need to be fixed. Personally I think it's a bit high priced given the mileage, automatic transmission, non-OEM wheels, and lack of packages, but maybe that's just me. It is from a dealer so the price will tend to be higher.

In the end you have to decide what it is a need vs. what is a "want" out of a ZHP. Do you need leather upholstery? Do you need a manual transmission? That kind of thing.

[Vas]

Hey! In the market for a 330i and found this in Florida. Thoughts?

http://www.idrivegreatcars.com/2005_BMW_3%20Series_Miami%20Gardens_FL_254503817.v eh

Thanks so much!!!

A member here has looked at that car IIRC.

[danewilson77]

Hey! In the market for a 330i and found this in Florida. Thoughts?

http://www.idrivegreatcars.com/2005_BMW_3%20Series_Miami%20Gardens_FL_254503817.v eh

Thanks so much!!!
My initial impression is I love the color. Not sure about the wheels (I'd want to know more about them). It's missing passenger fog light which makes me question other stuff. I'd have to replace both visors (missing safety warnings), drivers seat bolster has wear through to piling, steering wheel is in rough shape. Tear in one of the door panels, intake filter cover is scratched, rust on caliper. I like the mileage. In person you may find the paint to be in rough shape, as well as the interior black cube trim. I'd want some maintenance history.

Not enthusiast owned imho.

Just shooting from the hip here.

[BMWCurves]

What Dane said.

[STR86]

Gentlemen, your intellect is needed on this. I came across this ZHP on craigslist and on here as well. Went to check out the car and it's really clean with all the maintenance history. The gentleman who currently owns it is just the second owner. Being a 10+ year old car, I'd like to know if the price is right. Thanks!

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?15813-2004-ZHP-Sedan-Imola-Red-Alcantara-Black-Cloth-Silvercube-6MT-98K-miles-MINT

[ELCID86]

Gentlemen, your intellect is needed on this. I came across this ZHP on craigslist and on here as well. Went to check out the car and it's really clean with all the maintenance history. The gentleman who currently owns it is just the second owner. Being a 10+ year old car, I'd like to know if the price is right. Thanks!

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?15813-2004-ZHP-Sedan-Imola-Red-Alcantara-Black-Cloth-Silvercube-6MT-98K-miles-MINT

Good starting point. PPI recommended.


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[hcbeck2689]

Price doesn't look too bad for mileage but hard to see the pictures on my phone. I like the color. Wheels would have to go though


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[Benno]

I'm wondering if rusty brake calipers on a So Cal car should be a concern. Also I would not mind someone's thoughts on this particular ZHP. Thanks.

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?15887-2004-BMW-330i-ZHP-AT-w-86k-miles-(Santa-Monica-CA)-8-981

[JB3]

I'm wondering if rusty brake calipers on a So Cal car should be a concern. Also I would not mind someone's thoughts on this particular ZHP. Thanks.

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?15887-2004-BMW-330i-ZHP-AT-w-86k-miles-(Santa-Monica-CA)-8-981
Yes I'd be concerned. I've spent time there and it is dry. There are cars out there that shouldn't exist, with their original paint faded to hell, with no rust. So I would not expect it, but maybe someone else can chime in.

[fredo]

Can't remember finding a $3,000 ZHP before. Posted on FS section as well.

http://austin.craigslist.org/cto/5029863339.html

[ecrabb]

Backed off my M3 plans and putting the budget into less miles on a ZHP. Emailing back and forth with the owner of this fine specimen right now:
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?&listingId=397908091

I think the price is pretty fair, but it's over dealer retail... I went after $500 just to defray my $1100 shipping bill to get the car from Louisiana to Utah. Pending PPI, and assuming he still has it, I think I'm going to grab it. It's not my favorite color combo, but it will no doubt serve us well for at least a few years until I can realize my M3 dreams.

Thoughts?

Thanks!

SC

[Vas]

Backed off my M3 plans and putting the budget into less miles on a ZHP. Emailing back and forth with the owner of this fine specimen right now:
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?&listingId=397908091

I think the price is pretty fair, but it's over dealer retail... I went after $500 just to defray my $1100 shipping bill to get the car from Louisiana to Utah. Pending PPI, and assuming he still has it, I think I'm going to grab it. It's not my favorite color combo, but it will no doubt serve us well for at least a few years until I can realize my M3 dreams.

Thoughts?

Thanks!

SC

Nice low Miles. Titanium Silver is a pretty exterior color. Grey is nice and cool during summer months then black and a much better choice then a tan interior.

I like it.

[ecrabb]

Nice low Miles. Titanium Silver is a pretty exterior color. Grey is nice and cool during summer months then black and a much better choice then a tan interior.

I like it.

My thoughts exactly. Thanks!

SC

[CobyR]

Is this a good deal? got him down to $10,300 http://www.schneckmotorcompany.com/2004-BMW-330i-ZHP-Performance-Package-Plano-TX-75093/5502381
Here is the carfax http://www.carfax.com/viewEmailReport.do?a=PqOAFRk6yiOt5tuYwS6eCll0NkAa9 JgaQ7wwG7G2ugbMFM2knlkFqD1mQN%2BkDqh0&language=EN

[fredo]

The price looks good, but if they can go down to $10,000 even better. If this is your perfect combo (silver grey, alcantara, auto) then I say go for it even at $10,300.

[CobyR]

The price looks good, but if they can go down to $10,000 even better. If this is your perfect combo (silver grey, alcantara, auto) then I say go for it even at $10,300.

I have no such perfect combo, i love ZHP's and this is one of my favorite color combos though for sure. The only thing thats really bothering me is the lack of maintenance records.

[bradleg]

http://jonesford.com/details/2004-BMW-330i-North-Charleston-SC/5759971?cid=0

I can currently get this for 8k... thoughts? It was just checked out by a reputable Euro shop there in Charleston. They flushed all fluids, replaced radiator hoses, and put 2 new tires on rear. They said car is very clean and maintained. I talked to shop directly and not dealership. Has cold weather package also.

[Vas]

http://jonesford.com/details/2004-BMW-330i-North-Charleston-SC/5759971?cid=0

I can currently get this for 8k... thoughts? It was just checked out by a reputable Euro shop there in Charleston. They flushed all fluids, replaced radiator hoses, and put 2 new tires on rear. They said car is very clean and maintained. I talked to shop directly and not dealership. Has cold weather package also.

I think it is a little bit on the high size for pricing for a Auto with that mileage. Plus no factory zhp wheels on it.

[ELCID86]

I tend to agree with Vas. But I'm sure the dealer has at least $800-1000 of profit built in. PPI is a must. Then negotiate based on findings and non-stock wheels.


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[fredo]

The car seems to be in very good shape. I believe the wheels are OEM style 119 which comes in 17". You will save on tires on the long term (original OEM style 135 are 18").

Three months ago, I saw a similar one locally and the asking price was $9,000. So I think the price is ok for a dealer assuming you won't have to put extra money on svc and repairs right away.

[slater]

http://jonesford.com/details/2004-BMW-330i-North-Charleston-SC/5759971?cid=0

I can currently get this for 8k... thoughts? It was just checked out by a reputable Euro shop there in Charleston. They flushed all fluids, replaced radiator hoses, and put 2 new tires on rear. They said car is very clean and maintained. I talked to shop directly and not dealership. Has cold weather package also.

looks OK, the front end needs some cleaning up (headlight lenses and the paint looks dull), interior is a bit ratty. if you want a steptronic then i guess the trans is not an issue? otherwise looks OK, and orient blue is a nice color. i'd offer $7K.



I think it is a little bit on the high size for pricing for a Auto with that mileage. Plus no factory zhp wheels on it.

i tend to agree with this philosophy but i actually like those style 189's on the ZHP. :) but the tires are cheapo's, which is something i would change right off the bat.



The car seems to be in very good shape. I believe the wheels are OEM style 119 which comes in 17". You will save on tires on the long term (original OEM style 135 are 18").

those are OEM style 189's, 18x8 ET34 and 18x8.5 ET39 if i remember correctly. they look nice in my opinion. :)

peter

[danewilson77]

Original price is $9,885. He can get it for $8k. Not sure they'd let it go for $7k.

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[fredo]

Peter ... you are correct on the 189 style, found on some e90 cars. Even better than 119 IMHO !

[C.Bargman]

Hello all,

I am looking at purchasing one of these awesome cars more specifically a 330ci zhp in any color except black and red preferred. I was looking to get your opinion about two cars I am looking at.

I live in Detroit Michigan area

1: I like the car because it's somewhat local and it has the alcantara seats and it looks fairly well maintained. I don't like the car because after talking with the owner I learned he had the car chipped a year ago and he can not provide any real maintenance records. It does not come with winter package which I would love and its black. I think it might be an okay deal if I can get it around 8 but anything much more I feel like I will just have an expensive headache.

http://columbus.craigslist.org/cto/5028366055.html

2: this car I like more but it is a much longer drive which due to my scheduling constraints is a big downside. I like that it's silver and appears to be completely stock. I have not talked with the guy but it appears to be well mantained and I would guess he can provide quite a few service records. As well the price seems reasonable. Again no winter pack. http://littlerock.craigslist.org/cto/5030005095.html

If you guys have any other suggestions please tell me. I've done a lot of searching but very possibly missed something. There seem to be quite a few in CA but I really don't want one that far away. I was hoping to spend no more than 11k but could fluctuate a little if the suspension bushings, cooling system or both have already been replaced considering I will probably have to do both those things shortly after purchase considering the milage I am looking at.

Thanks for any help provided.

[ecrabb]

I am looking at purchasing one of these awesome cars more specifically a 330ci zhp in any color except black and red preferred. I was looking to get your opinion about two cars I am looking at.

Welcome to the forum!!!

Between the two, and just comparing the listings and nothing else, I like the Little Rock car much more. The black one just looks a little more "used". Non-original wheels, aftermarket radio, K&N, chip, and the front valance looks like it needs repainted. It also bugs me when people take photos at the car wash. Seriously? You can't be bothered to drive a mile to a park or at least a parking lot or something? You were AT the car wash, and you couldn't rinse the engine compartment down to take photos? If that's what the car looks like after it's "cleaned up", what does it look like the rest of the time? It's in Columbus, so no doubt it's seen plenty of snow and salt.

I haven't shopped higher-mileage cars much lately, or coupes for that matter, but the price seems pretty decent on the silver car, it seems to be an owner that's a little more cognizant of service (and that somebody would care about service), and appears to be a fairly neat, clean, OEM car. If you like the car, I'd probably engage with him and find out what service has/hasn't been done. Like you said, it'll need CABs and cooling system overhaul if it hasn't been done. Also probably VANOS and DISA, which if you do it yourself, the cost isn't too bad.

I wouldn't worry about the trip out of town. Catch a short flight to Little Rock late on a Friday, grab a cheap room in Little Rock, pick up the car on Saturday morning, and you can be back in the D by bed time. Or, break it up and stay in Indy on Saturday night and roll into the D on Sunday mid-afternoon.

I just went through this with my car. The car I ended up picking was almost twice as far from me as the Little Rock car is from you, so I ended up shipping the car. I'm still waiting for it to be delivered, in fact. If you can't get away, that's an option, too.

BTW, I joined this forum a few years ago, and finally just got a ZHP. You'll enjoy this forum immensely... They're the coolest, most helpful bunch of guys you'll ever find.

Cheers,
SC

[BMWCurves]

I am looking at purchasing one of these awesome cars more specifically a 330ci zhp in any color except black and red preferred. I was looking to get your opinion about two cars I am looking at.

I agree with SC, I like the one in Little Rock more for similar reasons he listed. What is your budget? And what are your other requirements such as manual transmission, Cold Weather Package, etc?

And welcome!

[C.Bargman]

Thanks for the advice so far. It more of less confirms what I was already thinking.


I agree with SC, I like the one in Little Rock more for similar reasons he listed. What is your budget? And what are your other requirements such as manual transmission, Cold Weather Package, etc?

And welcome!

As far as my "ideal car"
330ci
Price: 11k
Convertible: absolutely not
Color: alpine white or topaz blue is first choice. Second choice is anything except red and black
Interior color: black (could go either way on the alcantara)
Winter package: I would really like to have but not required
Premium package: again a bonus I would like
Transmission: manual
Nav: I'm not exactly sure how common this is our if it came bundled with one of the other packages... But I would not mind having it. That said I would probably rather have lower miles over a dated nav system.

I think that's about it...

[danewilson77]

Welcome to the Family


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[STR86]

Hello Fellas! I need your input on this ZHP. Has low miles and looks like it's very clean with maintenance history. Seller mentions it has cold weather package but doesn't look it (confirm?). Also, I understand these cars are getting rarer but $14500 seems steep. Thoughts? Thanks!

http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/hnp/cto/5108512987.html

[ecrabb]

That does appear to be a pretty "top dollar" price for that car, but I wouldn't say the price is really that out of line. It's not so much that ZHPs are that rare, but more that ZHPs with lower mileage and in very good shape (that don't need much) are getting rare. You can find cars all day long that have 120k miles on them and need CABs, cooling system overhaul, VANOS, DISA, and half a dozen other things, but an 80k mile car (if it's had at least some of those things done) isn't as plentiful in the marketplace.

I just paid $14,900 for an '04 vert, and looked for M3s and ZHPs for several months to find the car I wanted at my target budget. It only had 41k miles on it, but it needs a grand worth of tires and the wheels reconditioned, and not a single one of those maintenance items I mentioned has been done, save for maybe cooling hoses.

The car you posted has new tires and says it has no curb rash. That's big in my opinion if you care about aesthetics. If it's well-maintained, enthusiast-owned by only two owners, and all up to date, that's pretty huge, and worth every penny in my mind. You can save some significant money buying a higher-mileage car less-maintaied car, but it will likely need enough work that you'll burn up most of the price advantage eventually. It's pretty much a "pay now or pay later" sort of thing. All depends on whether the car is really in the shape the seller claims, and how nice of a car you want.

Get the VIN (or at least the last seven characters) from the seller, and it's easy to confirm exactly what options are on the car.

http://www.bmwvin.com

Cheers,
SC

[BMWCurves]

From the pics it does indeed look to have the Cold Weather Package (you can see the headlight cleaning systems just below the headlights above the bumper which were only available on the Cold Weather Package).

As for the price it is a bit high, in my opinion, but ZHP pricing can be everywhere. If it's local it's nice because you wouldn't have to pay to see it and/or ship it. I paid $14k for my '05 330Ci with 49k miles back in the end of March, but it was local so I didn't have to deal with shipping. I would ask for what maintenance has been done. If they've only followed the bare minimum maintenance schedule prescribed by BMW, then you'll probably have to sink $1-2k into things like fluids, tires, suspension components, brake components, etc. But if they've done some of that recently it can definitely help cut some cost.

[Vas]

Hello Fellas! I need your input on this ZHP. Has low miles and looks like it's very clean with maintenance history. Seller mentions it has cold weather package but doesn't look it (confirm?). Also, I understand these cars are getting rarer but $14500 seems steep. Thoughts? Thanks!

http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/hnp/cto/5108512987.html

Price is not bad for the miles and options. It does look to have heated seats and you can see the headlight washers. If you do get the vin, you can run that and see the options.

Maybe the seller is selling it because he bought the M3 in the pictures.

[Wowzers123]

I am looking at this ZHP: http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/5108558133.html

I would appreciate feedback on what you think about the price of the car vs. mileage/options. It looks pretty clean from the pictures. Talked to the owner who said it has had the following maintenance recently: New windshield, Tires are almost new, Waterpump thermostat replaced, Expansion tank replaced, Hoses in good shape and recent Oil Change. If there is anyone in the Bay Area that come come with me to look at the car, that would be awesome! Thanks for the feedback.

[jiggz]

I am looking at this ZHP: http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/5108558133.html

I would appreciate feedback on what you think about the price of the car vs. mileage/options. It looks pretty clean from the pictures. Talked to the owner who said it has had the following maintenance recently: New windshield, Tires are almost new, Waterpump thermostat replaced, Expansion tank replaced, Hoses in good shape and recent Oil Change. If there is anyone in the Bay Area that come come with me to look at the car, that would be awesome! Thanks for the feedback.

Price seems a bit high to me :dunno Looks to be in good shape and it's really well optioned, but at that price I'd expect lower miles.

Also, ad shows it has the Premium Package but not sure it does - I thought BMW Assist was included with that and I don't see the shark fin on the roof. Though you aren't missing much with this package as most of it's components were standard by 2004 or available as standalone options (leather and moonroof). It does have PDC (park distance control) even though it's not mentioned - you don't see that very often.

If you could get the price down it appears to be a nice ZHP - it's stock, has some maintenance history, etc. Good luck, let us know how it goes if you go see it.

[ecrabb]

I would appreciate feedback on what you think about the price of the car vs. mileage/options. It looks pretty clean from the pictures. Talked to the owner who said it has had the following maintenance recently: New windshield, Tires are almost new, Waterpump thermostat replaced, Expansion tank replaced, Hoses in good shape and recent Oil Change. If there is anyone in the Bay Area that come come with me to look at the car, that would be awesome!

That price does seem a little high for a 125,000-mile car. Cars with that kind of mileage are usually more like $10k cars. OTOH, most of those $10k cars need a lot of the things the guy just did. So, buy the $10k car, put $800 into tires, $400 into a new windshield, do a partial cooling-system overhaul for $500, and you now have $11,700 in the car - $800 off the $12,500 he's asking - and you went to all the hassle to get the work done or do it yourself.

It does look very clean from the pictures, and that's worth something. I'd go look at it and see if it looks as clean in person as it does in the photos. If it does, it might be worth something close to what he's asking.


If you could get the price down it appears to be a nice ZHP - it's stock, has some maintenance history, etc. Good luck, let us know how it goes if you go see it.
Agreed.

Cheers,
SC

[Wowzers123]

Price seems a bit high to me :dunno Looks to be in good shape and it's really well optioned, but at that price I'd expect lower miles.

Also, ad shows it has the Premium Package but not sure it does - I thought BMW Assist was included with that and I don't see the shark fin on the roof. Though you aren't missing much with this package as most of it's components were standard by 2004 or available as standalone options (leather and moonroof). It does have PDC (park distance control) even though it's not mentioned - you don't see that very often.

If you could get the price down it appears to be a nice ZHP - it's stock, has some maintenance history, etc. Good luck, let us know how it goes if you go see it.

Thanks for the feedback. It seems a bit high to me too. I think I would be willing to do $11,000 with this mileage, depending on the PPI. I'll have to see about the premium package. I am scheduling with the seller to see the car, so I will let you know what I find! Thanks!

[Wowzers123]

That price does seem a little high for a 125,000-mile car. Cars with that kind of mileage are usually more like $10k cars. OTOH, most of those $10k cars need a lot of the things the guy just did. So, buy the $10k car, put $800 into tires, $400 into a new windshield, do a partial cooling-system overhaul for $500, and you now have $11,700 in the car - $800 off the $12,500 he's asking - and you went to all the hassle to get the work done or do it yourself.

It does look very clean from the pictures, and that's worth something. I'd go look at it and see if it looks as clean in person as it does in the photos. If it does, it might be worth something close to what he's asking.


Agreed.

Cheers,
SC

Thanks for the feedback. That is is a good way to look at it. I will let you know how it goes once I see it.

[STR86]

That does appear to be a pretty "top dollar" price for that car, but I wouldn't say the price is really that out of line. It's not so much that ZHPs are that rare, but more that ZHPs with lower mileage and in very good shape (that don't need much) are getting rare. You can find cars all day long that have 120k miles on them and need CABs, cooling system overhaul, VANOS, DISA, and half a dozen other things, but an 80k mile car (if it's had at least some of those things done) isn't as plentiful in the marketplace.

I just paid $14,900 for an '04 vert, and looked for M3s and ZHPs for several months to find the car I wanted at my target budget. It only had 41k miles on it, but it needs a grand worth of tires and the wheels reconditioned, and not a single one of those maintenance items I mentioned has been done, save for maybe cooling hoses.

The car you posted has new tires and says it has no curb rash. That's big in my opinion if you care about aesthetics. If it's well-maintained, enthusiast-owned by only two owners, and all up to date, that's pretty huge, and worth every penny in my mind. You can save some significant money buying a higher-mileage car less-maintaied car, but it will likely need enough work that you'll burn up most of the price advantage eventually. It's pretty much a "pay now or pay later" sort of thing. All depends on whether the car is really in the shape the seller claims, and how nice of a car you want.

Get the VIN (or at least the last seven characters) from the seller, and it's easy to confirm exactly what options are on the car.

http://www.bmwvin.com

Cheers,
SC

Thanks for your response. You are spot on about pay now or pay later. I'll check with the seller to know the maintenance history. Does seem really clean and I did notice the headlamp washer/cleaner so it does have a cold weather package.

[Wowzers123]

Hey Everyone, I plan on seeing this car tonight (http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/5108558133.html). I have the price down to $11,500. The major maintenance items replaced were: thrust rod bushings, windshield, tires, waterpump, thermostat, oil and filter one week ago, and floor mats. If everything looks good in person, do you think this is a decent deal? It still seems a bit high for the mileage but it does look really clean and well optioned. Thanks for any feedback!

[fredo]

Are you doing a PPI ? The price is a bit high, like you say. But if you don't need to put money into the car right away (brakes, etc) then it could be a fair deal.

[Wowzers123]

Are you doing a PPI ? The price is a bit high, like you say. But if you don't need to put money into the car right away (brakes, etc) then it could be a fair deal.

Thanks for the feedback. Yes, I would be doing a PPI before buying.

[Vas]

How did it go?

[Wowzers123]

Went really well! The car looked really good and drove smooth. The paint and interior were in good shape and there was actually more maintenance done than I thought. It is also enthusiast owned, which was good. This was my first time driving a ZHP and loved it! I'm coming from a F30 6-speed and this car felt so much better. We agreed on the $11,500 price but I will still be doing a PPI this week. Hopefully it all goes well.

[BMWCurves]

Nice, good luck!

[330i Lover]

Some of you have already seen the thread but http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?16358-FS-04-Imola-Red-ZHP-14-500 is the link. I've ran the comps(no I'm not a real estate agent lol) and it seems 14.5k is really high IMO. Of the 7 comps within 50k and 85k miles the average price sold is $12,097. It looks to be in fab shape but for everything but the motor having 80k miles and not much preventative maintenance done I'm looking for your thoughts. I'm flying to CT from TN to see it this Sunday and possibly driving it back (15 hour drive). Unlike others I'm not as motivated to buy as one would think, I could fly there and if I don't feel it's a good deal I could fly back home and not lose a minute of sleep. Your thoughts please.

[ELCID86]

Hopefully you will like it and the seller will be willing to negotiate for a person who has come all that way. Be sure to see the car in the daylight. GL.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[NoVAphotog]

Some of you have already seen the thread but http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?16358-FS-04-Imola-Red-ZHP-14-500 is the link. I've ran the comps(no I'm not a real estate agent lol) and it seems 14.5k is really high IMO. Of the 7 comps within 50k and 85k miles the average price sold is $12,097. It looks to be in fab shape but for everything but the motor having 80k miles and not much preventative maintenance done I'm looking for your thoughts. I'm flying to CT from TN to see it this Sunday and possibly driving it back (15 hour drive). Unlike others I'm not as motivated to buy as one would think, I could fly there and if I don't feel it's a good deal I could fly back home and not lose a minute of sleep. Your thoughts please.
Are you getting a Ppi done Monday morning? If not, definitely a good idea. Negotiate based on results.

I think pricing these is tough because there is that emotional attachment and all. It is a little high, so I agree with Shawn, hopefully the seller will acknowledge the PM work needing to be done, etc and be reasonable.

Sent from an HTC One

[330i Lover]

Yup, PPI being done by BMW Monday morning.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using Tapatalk

[Kkritzman]

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1082059
Car fits my criteria perfectly. Wondering if anyone has any opinions on it?
Thanks all!

[ELCID86]

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1082059
Car fits my criteria perfectly. Wondering if anyone has any opinions on it?
Thanks all!

Looks nice.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[ASUMNTNEER]

Looking at a 2004 ZHP sedan. Auto 122k miles. New steering wheel. Black leather interior in really good shape. No heated seats. It's in very good condition. No maintenance records. What's it worth??? Asking $8900

[NoVAphotog]

Looking at a 2004 ZHP sedan. Auto 122k miles. New steering wheel. Black leather interior in really good shape. No heated seats. It's in very good condition. No maintenance records. What's it worth??? Asking $8900

Link/info/pics? A/S/L? :shifty

I'd say that price isn't bad, but would need more info. Sure you want an auto?

[fredo]

A/S/L ? I need more info about that. :ninja

Edit: got it. Age, sex, location. Man, those dating days are way behind me !

[330i Lover]

A/S/L ? I need more info about that. :ninja

Edit: got it. Age, sex, location. Man, those dating days are way behind me !

I like banana cream whey protein shakes with a slightly spotted banana, long walks on the beach and watching the sunset. Wanna hang out? :party

[autom3otives]

A friend is selling his ZHP and I am wondering if the price is right. Below is a quick rundown of his car for $8500:

2003 Imola Sedan
107k on the odo
6 Speed Manual
cloth/alcantara interior
satellite radio
parking sensors
cold weather package
stock alarm modules activated
HK audio system


Recent Maintenance:
cooling system overhaul (minus radiator)
steering fluid pump replaced
brakes


Mods:
Stewart water pump
H&R sport springs
Bilstein shocks
stock E46 M3 strut tower brace
Dinan CAI
Dinan stage 1 tune
tint
yellow fog light bulbs
matte black kidney grills


Issues:
Valve cover gasket replacement (I can DIY)
CV torn boot replacement (I can DIY)
Front bumper could use a respray, bottom scrapes due to lowering
Steering wheel wear at 10 and 2 O'Clock positions
Radio on/off button stuck (I can DIY)

Thoughts?

[330i Lover]

I think it's priced right or maybe a tad lower than expected. With only 100k miles I'd shoot for 10k so maybe advertise at 11k? Just my 2 cents.

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[autom3otives]

I think it's priced right or maybe a tad lower than expected. With only 100k miles I'd shoot for 10k so maybe advertise at 11k? Just my 2 cents.

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Oh nice, that means it's a good thing for me, because I'm trying to buy it.

[330i Lover]

Doooooooo iiiiiiiiittttttt!!

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[Vas]

Dooooo itttttt

[BMWCurves]

Agreed with those who posted above me, I think that's a very fair price.

[Shenanigans]

Oh nice, that means it's a good thing for me, because I'm trying to buy it.

Don't buy it!!! Send him my way so I can. :begging

Enjoy the car!

[fredo]

+1. The price is right !

[Shenanigans]

How do you guys feel about this?
http://charlotte.craigslist.org/cto/5159992149.html

[330i Lover]

I wish my zhp had all that maintenance done, holy guacamole! Below 10k I would say do it, 9k would be grand.

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[ELCID86]

Go for it. I had same seat hole repair done for <$300.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Shenanigans]

These folks (http://jpmcoachworks.com/) are about 3 miles away and said they can do it for about $400. The seat is actual torn on both sections of fabric.
I've contacted the guy but he is clearly busy at work. Waiting on some larger pictures.


Edit: Are there any mafia members in the Charlotte area?

[ELCID86]

These folks (http://jpmcoachworks.com/) are about 3 miles away and said they can do it for about $400. The seat is actual torn on both sections of fabric.
I've contacted the guy but he is clearly busy at work. Waiting on some larger pictures.


Edit: Are there any mafia members in the Charlotte area?

I saved a few bucks by pulling the seat for the upholstery shop.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

I like it go for it

[Hokie11]

What do you guys think of this? Kinda sucks it has neither the cold nor premium packages, and pending my conversations with the seller, seems like a good deal

http://longisland.craigslist.org/cto/5184624094.html

[330i Lover]

With those miles it's a steal, pending interior condition, I don't see any pics there.

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[Hokie11]

He sent a few, of just the front though. Looks like your normal peeling interior pieces. Still havent gotten the VIN from seller to run a carfax. I know some in the sale thread expressed concern with the headlights and potentially meaning its been in an accident. Hopefully I'll find out soon

2136921370

[Vas]

What do you guys think of this? Kinda sucks it has neither the cold nor premium packages, and pending my conversations with the seller, seems like a good deal

http://longisland.craigslist.org/cto/5184624094.html

Got a vin number for it?

Personally i am not a fan of the wheels/fitment and the tails. Otherwise a good price for low miles pending a PPI.

[Pip]

Headlights looks funny without the standard black. Wheels/fitment can be sorted later but probably just needs a drop to not look like a spaced out monster truck lol

[Hokie11]

Got a vin number for it?

Personally i am not a fan of the wheels/fitment and the tails. Otherwise a good price for low miles pending a PPI.

Haven't gotten it yet, should be having a phone call later today, hopefully get it then. Said he wanted to talk on phone before sending VIN for w/e reason so we'll see what happens lol

[edwin.colo]

23960 (hopefully the picture got attached)

Hey I'm currently been texting with the owner of a 2005 ZHP with 150k miles... he has done the cooling system overhaul, new clutch, spark plugs and wheel bearings in the last 10K miles. Condition looks to be good for the year/miles....

VIN: WBABD53405PD99404

What would be a good price for it??

Thanks

[BMWCurves]

It's a manual so there's a premium to pay for those over automatics. VIN shows it does not have either the Cold Weather Package or the Premium Package. Is it accident free? What other suspension and engine maintenance has been done in the past 30-50k miles?

[edwin.colo]

Its accident free.. I dont think he has done any suspension in the three years he has owned it, so its pretty much stock (probably needs the bushings refreshed)... yeah no other package other than ZHP... he has done all brake rotors and pads 25k ago... it does need the front glass (its cracked on the passenger's side)...

[Vas]

I think you can do better.

[330i Lover]

I don't see an asking price anywhere. I'm not a fan of the wheel color but if they can be dipped in silver that'd be an easy fix. What else have you learned about the car?

[edwin.colo]

Hey guys,

Ended up buying another ZHP last Saturday.
2004 sedan with 139k. (Paid $7600).
Already cleaned the interior good and waiting on parts for a complete tune up. Needs the CCV stuff replaced as well, waiting on parts also. Will post on the intro page soon. Thanks
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160202/d4883a70b35c1a5c35bc28bb32c952ae.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160202/f848cae3cfc43b11f7494f8741b8f22f.jpg


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[330i Lover]

Love the brown interior on black. What plans do you have for her so far? I think she looks very clean. :cheers

[edwin.colo]

Thanks
Yeah I like the combo too. Right now plans are getting it ready for daily use. All fluid/filter/plugs, cooling overhaul and the CCV stuff will be happening in the next few weeks. Road it 3 hours from where I bought it to my house and it road nice. Planning on keeping it stock for now. Will need rotors/pads in probably 3-4 months.
I'm loving it so far.


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[330i Lover]

Congratulations and welcome to the ZHP family. We are the nicest around. There are loads of threads on good/not-so-good parts to choose from and everyone is quick to help if needed. I'm jelly that you only had a 3 hour drive home. I flew from Nashville to CT and drove it 1,050 miles home. Fun times. I'd recommend checking out these links if you haven't already. Ciao

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?2454-E46-Words-of-Wisdom-For-the-New-Guy
http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?983-Nough-Said-My-BMW-330-ZHP-Is-Not-Special-(a-video-by-Kayger12)

[edwin.colo]

Thanks man.... [emoji106]🏻


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[Vas]

Where did you find that nice example?

[edwin.colo]

Found it at a used car lot in Virginia Beach. Listed as a "normal" 330i, no mention of ZHP on there description or anything. That's probably why the price was so low. They had it listed at $8000 (approx.$8500 out the door after fees). After PPI I offered $7600 out the door and they accepted it. Two owner vehicle.


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[fredo]

Good find. Car looks great. :drool

[Vas]

Nice find....

[edwin.colo]

Thanks you all.


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[BMWCurves]

Nice find, love black on Natural Brown!

[jhemmer01]

Nice color combo. I like the natural brown interior.


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[ecrabb]

Great color combo and looks like a nice car!

It's mind-blowing to me what great value these beautiful cars are. I mean, $7600??!? For what was a $40k car not that many years ago. Wow! Some of the very cheapest new econo boxes on the market are nearly twice that price.

Even if you have to put a couple grand of maintenance work into the car, drive it for a couple of years and sell it, you'll still be way ahead over anything new, and you get to drive a BMW the whole time! Plus, you get to screw the government out of a bunch of sales tax revenue, and that's never a bad thing. <evil grin>

SC

[ELCID86]

Hey guys,

Ended up buying another ZHP last Saturday.
2004 sedan with 139k. (Paid $7600).
Already cleaned the interior good and waiting on parts for a complete tune up. Needs the CCV stuff replaced as well, waiting on parts also. Will post on the intro page soon. Thanks
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160202/d4883a70b35c1a5c35bc28bb32c952ae.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160202/f848cae3cfc43b11f7494f8741b8f22f.jpg


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Good grab!

[jhs1210]

Good grab!

Holy crap, that's a steal!


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[BMWCurves]

Very nice pickup

[Lublisha]

Hey guys,

Ended up buying another ZHP last Saturday.
2004 sedan with 139k. (Paid $7600).
Already cleaned the interior good and waiting on parts for a complete tune up. Needs the CCV stuff replaced as well, waiting on parts also. Will post on the intro page soon. Thanks
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160202/d4883a70b35c1a5c35bc28bb32c952ae.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160202/f848cae3cfc43b11f7494f8741b8f22f.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
stoked to see a car disappears from my saved autotrader list and shows up on here. Great grab!

[Lublisha]

Getting a PPI on this tomorrow. 8k. everything I wanted minus heated seats.241482414924150

[edwin.colo]

Nicee... Looks good. [emoji106]🏻


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[BMWCurves]

100k miles (I think I see 99,475 on the odometer)? Pretty good for $8k! You can always retrofit heated seats or try and find some heated front seats from a parts car. Good luck, hope it works out.

[Vas]

Details ?

[Lublisha]

Details ?
99,xxx miles, 6MT no CW or premium package. 2 owner.

[Lublisha]

100k miles (I think I see 99,475 on the odometer)? Pretty good for $8k! You can always retrofit heated seats or try and find some heated front seats from a parts car. Good luck, hope it works out.
Thanks!

In related news. any feedback on particular car shipping companies?

[Vas]

99,xxx miles, 6MT no CW or premium package. 2 owner.
Nice

[BMWCurves]

Thanks!

In related news. any feedback on particular car shipping companies?

Where is it located?

[Lublisha]

Where is it located?
Houston. I am not up for that trip lol

[cjares]

What do you guys think is a fair price for this one? It's a salvage title, but otherwise appears to be quite nice:

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/cto/5637521291.html

[BMWCurves]

That's actually a member's car. It's OtterEffect's car, his for sale ad is here:

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?18121-Most-of-you-will-recognize-this-car!-Lets-find-it-a-new-home-)

[cjares]

Indeed. It isn't clear from this thread what the consensus is on salvaged titles. I imagine it lowers the value, but not sure by how much. Any thoughts on that?


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[NoVAphotog]

Indeed. It isn't clear from this thread what the consensus is on salvaged titles. I imagine it lowers the value, but not sure by how much. Any thoughts on that?


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I wouldn't. I think the consensus is that if you have the means or resources to use it as a "spare" vehicle in an otherwise off-road use then it's fine, but as a DD or family hauler...keep looking for a clean title. Member's car or not. You don't want to have to deal with this whole thing when it comes time to sell down the line.

http://www.edmunds.com/car-buying/what-is-a-salvage-title-vehicle.html

http://thegarage.jalopnik.com/why-you-dont-want-to-buy-a-rebuilt-salvage-vehicle-1653320003

[BMWCurves]

I'd normally agree with you, Daniel, because salvaged titles can be such a can of worms. In this case though, according to the build thread from Dario, it was salvaged due to a fire with the LCM? So while it's not ideal, it's better than flood/theft/accident damage.

@cjares, if you like the, I would contact Dario and/or OtterEffect to discuss the extent of the fire and the damage. What's the worst that could happen? You find out it's too questionable and you can walk away. And unfortunately, Daniel is right, you will have trouble recouping your costs down the line if you plan to sell it because of that salvaged title.

[tricott]

Hey guys, new member here and I've found a listing that I'm considering. Please let me know what you all think.

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/pen/cto/5677057396.html

85k miles. Looks to be in very good condition. Has some modifications.

Someone on a different forum did speculate that the modifications make it seem like the driver was "sub-30" which could be an indicator of abuse, at least in the way it was driven. I spoke to the guy on the phone and he definitely seems above 30, says he's selling the car because his parents are getting old and he needs a bigger car, and how he's considering selling it to his nephew (would be unusual for a man under 30 to have a nephew old enough to drive, let alone a car like this). He was familiar with zhpmafia and e46fanatics, so he definitely knows what he's got, and he was clearly familiar/knowledgable on the modifications he's made (didn't get the vibe he was selling someone else's car).

A few things he told me that are not mentioned in the listing: he is the 4th owner. He claims the first three owners were all befriended. The 3rd owner only had the car for a few months. He's had it about a year. This is my biggest turn off.
He also says he has no service records because he would by the parts himself and had mechanic friends that would work on it for him.

It seems a biiit sketchy, but I'm really attracted to the fact that it has low miles. Some of the mods are things I would do myself, some I am indifferent about, but most importantly I'd like to eventually be able to restore the car to its original condition, particularly when I end up re-selling it, and also would like to know if anyone can shed light on that. Are any of the mods he's done irreversible? I imagine you could just pull it all out.

Let me know your thoughts, I know very little about ZHPs but recently fell in love with them. What's it worth contingent upon a clean PPI?

Thank you!

[ELCID86]

Hey guys, new member here and I've found a listing that I'm considering. Please let me know what you all think.

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/pen/cto/5677057396.html

85k miles. Looks to be in very good condition. Has some modifications.

Someone on a different forum did speculate that the modifications make it seem like the driver was "sub-30" which could be an indicator of abuse, at least in the way it was driven. I spoke to the guy on the phone and he definitely seems above 30, says he's selling the car because his parents are getting old and he needs a bigger car, and how he's considering selling it to his nephew (would be unusual for a man under 30 to have a nephew old enough to drive, let alone a car like this). He was familiar with zhpmafia and e46fanatics, so he definitely knows what he's got, and he was clearly familiar/knowledgable on the modifications he's made (didn't get the vibe he was selling someone else's car).

A few things he told me that are not mentioned in the listing: he is the 4th owner. He claims the first three owners were all befriended. The 3rd owner only had the car for a few months. He's had it about a year. This is my biggest turn off.
He also says he has no service records because he would by the parts himself and had mechanic friends that would work on it for him.

It seems a biiit sketchy, but I'm really attracted to the fact that it has low miles. Some of the mods are things I would do myself, some I am indifferent about, but most importantly I'd like to eventually be able to restore the car to its original condition, particularly when I end up re-selling it, and also would like to know if anyone can shed light on that. Are any of the mods he's done irreversible? I imagine you could just pull it all out.

Let me know your thoughts, I know very little about ZHPs but recently fell in love with them. What's it worth contingent upon a clean PPI?

Thank you!

Welcome. He says testing the waters and don't ask for best price... If you can get him on the phone, ask about car, maintenance, how much he drove it, who did the audio, etc. for me it priced a few $k too high. Others may not think so. Definitely get a PPI (check Bimmershops.com or Angie's List for a good one).


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - anonymous

[BMWCurves]

My first thoughts:

80k miles is attractive. However, unless you can get proof of what maintenance has been done, there's a fair amount you should address by 80k miles, namely the cooling system, fluids (power steering, differential, motor oil, brake fluid, coolant), belts/pulleys, brake pads (these are mentioned but again, needs proof), rotors, and possibly lines, spark plugs, suspension (shocks, bushings), etc.
The price is high, IMO. Automatics are less sought after than manuals and their prices reflect that. I'd expect closer to $10.5k and down.
The car does not have the Cold Weather Package. Not sure if that's important to you, but should be noted.
That sub and sub box is rather large and looks to take up a lot of the already slim trunk space.
CarFax and a PPI are highly suggested

I like the color combo and looks to be in decent shape, but Craigslist photos are notoriously good at hiding blemishes that you'd seen in person. There are indications that it was at one time owned by someone younger or at least into speed as seen by the Shark Injector, dark tinting, large subwoofer, various wires up front, wiring for Valentine police radar, etc.

[tricott]

Would proof of this kind of maintenance be attainable from a PPI? (cooling system, fluids, belts, etc)

[ELCID86]

Would proof of this kind of maintenance be attainable from a PPI? (cooling system, fluids, belts, etc)

Usually not. Many parts are hard to distinguish by brand or age and the shop would probably not give much of a detailed opinion --maybe "well maintained " or looks like x or y has been done.

[usinjin]

I've been checking out this ZHP: https://charlotte.craigslist.org/cto/5748892660.html

It's an auto, and I'm thinking I want a manual, but it looks like it's in pretty good shape, and I like the interior a lot. He told me he would come down to about $9k for it. Good deal or still a little high?

[Vas]

Price is high. That is what manual cars are selling for now.

[NoVAphotog]

I've been checking out this ZHP: https://charlotte.craigslist.org/cto/5748892660.html

It's an auto, and I'm thinking I want a manual, but it looks like it's in pretty good shape, and I like the interior a lot. He told me he would come down to about $9k for it. Good deal or still a little high?

Go for a manual

[BMWCurves]

I've been checking out this ZHP: https://charlotte.craigslist.org/cto/5748892660.html

It's an auto, and I'm thinking I want a manual, but it looks like it's in pretty good shape, and I like the interior a lot. He told me he would come down to about $9k for it. Good deal or still a little high?

I would say he's high, but most people start high if they plan to negotiate down. I'd expect closer to $8-9k, or lower.

That said, if you're more interested in a manual, I'd suggest waiting. They're around, you just need to have some patience. You might find a higher mileage one, but to me that's not that important unless it's really up there. My car came with <50k miles but I did a lot of maintenance just because of age (10 year old rubber and fluids in some cases). I would have done the same maintenance if my car had 100k miles.

[usinjin]

Found this at a dealership:

2005 330i
Imola red w/black leather
116,xxx miles
Manual

Looks to be in decent shape. One issue is that the ABS light is on and the dealership doesn't want to fix it. Pricey fix at all?

They're asking $7800 or best offer.

26897268982689926900269012690226903269042690526906

[Vas]

Just the abs light or abs and traction ?

[usinjin]

Just the abs light or abs and traction ?

You're right, looks like both are on. Over the phone they told me just ABS.

[Vas]

I would scan the system to see what codes come up. But could be dirty speed/abs sensors, low brake fluid or the dsc pressure sensors.

Not a deal breaker

[ELCID86]

You're right, looks like both are on. Over the phone they told me just ABS.

Use that to drive the price down. May want a PPI so you know for sure what you're gettin inta.

[330i Lover]

7k for that would be a steal. Good luck.

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[usinjin]

Okay--one more option I am considering. This one is in Florida (not a terrible drive):

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/l-Used-BMW-3-Series-Longwood-d1512_L5146?sourceContext=sendToPhoneSMSLink_false _0&showListingId=153218635#listing=153218635

Spoke to the dealer today about it, and while they won't take best offer, they said they wouldn't charge fees. I realize it is an automatic, but I'm starting to think that I'm fine with that. I do a huge amount of hill driving, parallel parking, and sitting in traffic, usually while asleep or consuming things. I understand the virtues of a manual and have driven a few, but I'm accustomed to an auto and am also pretty lazy. I don't need every drop of performance possible. The step seems like an okay compromise.

96k miles, I realize that I'm running up against the "replace a bunch of things" mileage, but I'm okay with that too. Clean title, 2 owners, completely stock, looks pretty clean too. Rear emblem is worn but that's cosmetic. Thoughts on this one?

Edit: Ha, last photo isn't the same car, oops!

[fredo]

I like this one. Just add a Sprint Booster and you are all set. PPI is your best friend.

[usinjin]

I like this one. Just add a Sprint Booster and you are all set. PPI is your best friend.

Thanks fredo! I might just fly to Orlando this weekend..if I can convince myself that I'm satisfied with the auto...:thumbup

Sprint Booster ver. 2 or perhaps Eurocharged..hmm :)

[Vas]

Okay--one more option I am considering. This one is in Florida (not a terrible drive):

https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/l-Used-BMW-3-Series-Longwood-d1512_L5146?sourceContext=sendToPhoneSMSLink_false _0&showListingId=153218635#listing=153218635

Spoke to the dealer today about it, and while they won't take best offer, they said they wouldn't charge fees. I realize it is an automatic, but I'm starting to think that I'm fine with that. I do a huge amount of hill driving, parallel parking, and sitting in traffic, usually while asleep or consuming things. I understand the virtues of a manual and have driven a few, but I'm accustomed to an auto and am also pretty lazy. I don't need every drop of performance possible. The step seems like an okay compromise.

96k miles, I realize that I'm running up against the "replace a bunch of things" mileage, but I'm okay with that too. Clean title, 2 owners, completely stock, looks pretty clean too. Rear emblem is worn but that's cosmetic. Thoughts on this one?

Edit: Ha, last photo isn't the same car, oops!

Vehicle information

VIN long WBAEV534X5KM43011

Type code EV53

Type 330I (USA)

Dev. series E46 (4FL)

Line 3

Body type LIM

Steering LL

Door count 4

Engine M54

Cubical capacity 3.00

Power 170

Transmision HECK

Gearbox AUT

Colour SCHWARZ 2 (668)

Upholstery STANDARDLEDER/SCHWARZ (N6SW)

Prod. date 2005-01-19

[ELCID86]

Could be a great find. Hope it checks out.


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - anonymous

[BrashL]

Hello all, new to the forum and looking for advice.

Any thoughts on this one: http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/cto/5739540388.html

Thanks

[NoVAphotog]

Hello all, new to the forum and looking for advice.

Any thoughts on this one: http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/cto/5739540388.html

Thanks

Priced right for the miles, don't like the wheel color. "Clean" interior is "clean" with the tear shown in one spot and no other pics. Would definitely recommend a PPI and request service history for the big ticket items. At 151k there are a lot of things that are potentially due...

[Pilot05]

Hello all, new to the forum and looking for advice.

Any thoughts on this one: http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/cto/5739540388.html

Thanks

When buying used, I put as much stock in the seller, why he is selling, and the car's history as much as current condition.
For me, this says all I need to know:
"......May trade for the right WRX....."

who would do that?

[Vas]

Hello all, new to the forum and looking for advice.

Any thoughts on this one: http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/cto/5739540388.html

Thanks

Pass on it IMO.

[fw_fw]

Hello all, new to the forum and looking for advice.

Any thoughts on this one: http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/cto/5739540388.html

Thanks


If it were me I'd pass, but then we don't know what you are looking for. Some more details of your wants & needs in a ZHP would help us judge better...

[ELCID86]

I'd consider it but then again I bought an '04 with 182k mi for @$5k.


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - anonymous

[BMWCurves]

If it were me I'd pass, but then we don't know what you are looking for. Some more details of your wants & needs in a ZHP would help us judge better...

+1

[holyc0w]

I'd consider it but then again I bought an '04 with 182k mi for @$5k.


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - anonymous

+1

The exterior looks in good shape. Interior and maintenance could make way for negotiation.


I found my car's twin in the same state:
http://chicago.craigslist.org/wcl/cto/5795659957.html

Same year, same options (except silver cube trim), similar mileage, less rust

[Sreten]

What's the general opinion on salvage title?

Have opportunity to get 06 Mystic Blue ZHP Coupe with around 75k miles on the clock but has a salvage title.

I personally don't have a big problem with that as long as the frame wasn't damaged.

[san]

What's the general opinion on salvage title?

Have opportunity to get 06 Mystic Blue ZHP Coupe with around 75k miles on the clock but has a salvage title.

I personally don't have a big problem with that as long as the frame wasn't damaged.

I would avoid them if possible
BUT
If you know for sure there has been no frame damage and you are not going to sell the vehicle soon (run it to the ground basically) and if you are getting it for a steal you should be OK...


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[Sreten]

Pulled Carfax and it was totaled in 2007 when it had around 5.000 miles.
That was a brand new car. Must've been one big ass accident.

[KTS317]

What's the general opinion on salvage title?

Have opportunity to get 06 Mystic Blue ZHP Coupe with around 75k miles on the clock but has a salvage title.

I personally don't have a big problem with that as long as the frame wasn't damaged.

I never thought I would do it but I found a deal on one I couldn't pass up. I daily a salvage titled 01 330ci. It was totaled in 2011-2012 with 90k. It's extremely rough and ugly but it's gotten me to and from work almost every day for 2 years. Knowing when and how it was totaled is important.

Some people have horror stories about salvage titles though...


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[ELCID86]

Pulled Carfax and it was totaled in 2007 when it had around 5.000 miles.
That was a brand new car. Must've been one big ass accident.

It must have been pretty major. Still considering it? Warrants a thorough PPI.


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - anonymous E46 fanatic

[Sreten]

Nah, I think the guy is asking too much. I sent him a number and he said he will think about it.
I also wasn't thrilled when I saw the interior. I was expecting it to be in great shape since it's only 75k miles but it's pretty rough.

Was thinking of getting it, sort out common problems and flip it way under the price, but don't know if I want to deal with salvage title...

Got my eye on a very nice 05 Jet Black automatic sedan. 1 owner, 90k miles, black leather, cold & premium package.

[Sreten]

Been searching for a ZHP for myself. Not too picky, just needs to have 2 doors and third pedal.

Searching Cali and nearby states.

My favorite was this one - https://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/cto/5909640356.html

But the guy is not answering and when he did one time, he didn't want to send more photos of the car or share any details.

Next one is in Portland - https://portland.craigslist.org/clk/cto/5867996345.html

Been up for 2 months. I like the color a lot.
None of the major work or common stuff have been done on the car.
He says that the car doesn't reach working temp when it's cold outside so thermostat is stuck open which is not healthy for the engine.
Needs cooling system overhaul and he thinks probably new struts (original suspension), clutch catches bit too high according to him, and has Vanos rattle on cold start.

Would grab it but at 11,200 which is his last price, I think it's too much given everything.

[Sreten]

https://s23.postimg.org/87uo4i447/Capture.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/87uo4i447/)

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/cto/5903968963.html

If anybody is looking into this one do tell and I'll write a review of the car. I went to see it...

[hickatew]

https://s23.postimg.org/87uo4i447/Capture.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/87uo4i447/)

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/cto/5903968963.html

If anybody is looking into this one do tell and I'll write a review of the car. I went to see it...

That one looks great. Too bad there's so many on the West Coast, just drives the price way up to get them to Boston. Are you looking to flip your next one Sreten?

[Pilot05]

https://s23.postimg.org/87uo4i447/Capture.jpg (https://postimg.org/image/87uo4i447/)

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/cto/5903968963.html

If anybody is looking into this one do tell and I'll write a review of the car. I went to see it...

did you drive from Santa Barbara to Sacramento ? that's like 6 hrs ea way and not even a straight shot...

[Sreten]

Was looking for myself, I want 2 door manual ZHP.

It isn't that great, trust me.

Not too many 2 doors on West Coast either, this is the only one in Cali I think that's a manual. Couple more in Washington.

Pilot05, that I did. 13 hours of driving back and forth. Waste of time.

[mykilleaf]

Hi All,

I'm new here, located out in the Bay Area. I'm looking at becoming a first time ZHP owner and I just went to go see a car today. I was hoping you all could take a look and give me your thoughts. Here's the link: https://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/cto/5961919563.html

Some details:
It has had 2 owners including the seller. Guy before him took it to Italy and back or something like that. It's still on the original clutch, seller claims he's selling it because it's just been sitting in his garage and he doesn't use it anymore. He had no maintenance records himself but he has the carfax which has all the service records from the dealership (screen shots of the carfax here: http://imgur.com/a/yWEst)

It doesn't seem to have any packages like cold weather or anything. He put a new nav system in, a backup cam, and a $3,000 speaker system. The tires all need to be replaced and the steering wheel has some wear and tear, otherwise the interior is nice and the exterior is pretty spotless as well--although I'm not particularly savvy on what to look for. The seller is very nice and open to putting it through a PPI.

Any insight you guys can provide on what to look for or how much you think is a fair price would be very helpful. $10.5k seems high to me but I'm not sure. I'm a little skeptical about the clutch and it doesn't seem like he's done much preventative maintenance. I've been reading stuff starts going at 100,000 miles. He doesn't want to budge lower than $9k.

Thanks!

[ELCID86]

^hi and welcome. Car looks pretty good and I don't think the price is too out of line. I'd definitely pay for a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) for a reputable independent shop. Look on www.bimmershops.com
As for the clutch, I have 206k on mine.


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - anonymous E46 fanatic

[NYRhockey]

Car looks good pretty good. PPI is a must and the price is not all that high. If he doesn't want to "budge from $9K" i take you can get it for around that amount which would be a good get.

[BMWCurves]

Hi All,

I'm new here, located out in the Bay Area. I'm looking at becoming a first time ZHP owner and I just went to go see a car today. I was hoping you all could take a look and give me your thoughts. Here's the link: https://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/cto/5961919563.html

Some details:
It has had 2 owners including the seller. Guy before him took it to Italy and back or something like that. It's still on the original clutch, seller claims he's selling it because it's just been sitting in his garage and he doesn't use it anymore. He had no maintenance records himself but he has the carfax which has all the service records from the dealership (screen shots of the carfax here: http://imgur.com/a/yWEst)

It doesn't seem to have any packages like cold weather or anything. He put a new nav system in, a backup cam, and a $3,000 speaker system. The tires all need to be replaced and the steering wheel has some wear and tear, otherwise the interior is nice and the exterior is pretty spotless as well--although I'm not particularly savvy on what to look for. The seller is very nice and open to putting it through a PPI.

Any insight you guys can provide on what to look for or how much you think is a fair price would be very helpful. $10.5k seems high to me but I'm not sure. I'm a little skeptical about the clutch and it doesn't seem like he's done much preventative maintenance. I've been reading stuff starts going at 100,000 miles. He doesn't want to budge lower than $9k.

Thanks!

Hey there,

So first, welcome!

Second, let's look at the car. The car is Alpine White (relatively rare color - only 92 made in the US with a manual transmission), 92k miles (relatively low), and a manual transmission (preferable for some). The asking price of $10.5k is pretty much on the money for the market only considering miles according to our aggregated data on purchase prices (see below):

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FUWpdcPerF3UNTwj5AQoMDn-1MTfdhRaylJr7lGTmtw/pubchart?oid=289040793&format=interactive

As for maintenance, having it serviced at BMW of Fulton does help because you may be able to get records from them. You might not, I'm not sure what their policy is. At any rate, it seems it was serviced most of its life there which means that service will be relatively thin because BMW's maintenance schedule for the E46 itself is/was relatively meager. So the things that will probably be due at the mileage will be:

Cooling system refresh - This is a major one, don't leave it to chance. This is not in BMW's maintenance schedule but is a known weak point in the M54 engine. Replace the water pump, upper and lower radiator hoses, thermostat, expansion tank, radiator (optional), and maybe the sensors while you're in there.
Spark plugs - Cheap insurance that you have nice plugs
Belts - replace every 30k miles or so. Two of them (I'll include a parts list below)
Pulleys - I forget the replacement figure on these
Air filters - intake and cabin air filters. Cheap, replace ever 10k miles or some such.
Fuel filter - replace every 50k miles
Shocks - the stock shocks by Sachs only last about 50k miles. Not an immediate thing, but will definitely improve the ride if you replace them. I have a decent thread on a relatively OEM route that uses mostly stock components and a few improved components here and there such as front control arm bushings from a BMW Z4M and Koni shocks that will last much longer (link: http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?16182-Help-with-Suspension-Refresh-at-50k-miles-10-years)
Other suspension components - the FCABs and RTABs are known to go by this car's mileage, so see aforementioned thread for suggetions
Fluids - replace them all. It's cheap insurance to know your car is running good fluids. Do the transmission, differential, oil, power steering, and brake fluid
Brakes - Timing for this really varies on driving habits. But stock replacements are fine, or maybe go for a different street pad that produces less dust since BMW stock pads are notorious for dust production.
Battery - They can last a while, but as soon as the voltage drops, our cars start doing funny things.
Steering wheel - It's 10+ year old alcantara. It's probably gross and worn by now if it wasn't taken care of. Many members have it rewrapped in alcantara by Coby Wheel for $200 or so. I went and got mine rewrapped in a mix of leather/perforated leather for $350.

That said, there are some other things to look for, and others can chime in on things I missed. If you have the car taken in for a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) (I highly recommend you do), try and take the car to a BMW-specialty shop that is very familiar with the E46 and knows what to look for. If you're not familiar with any, take a look at https://www.bimmershops.com/ to start your search for a local place.:

It's rare in late model E46s like the ZHP, but the rear subframe mounts are known to crack.
VANOS rattle - others can chime in on this, I haven't had to tackle this issue yet
DISA valve failure - same as VANOS
Vacuum leaks - common in the upper or lower intake boots at this age/mileage
Electrical issues - can be related to any number of things but check EVERY switch multiple times to make sure they work, engine on and off. Many electrical gremlins can be fixed by replacing an old battery
Parking brake - often becomes loose. Relatively easy to fix, but be aware that our handbrakes just aren't that good in general
Window regulator failure - if you hear crackling or the windows don't go down/up at the same right on each side, it indicates a failing window regulator. Tons of guides on how to do it yourself, etc
Sunroof issues - often the sunshade will hop the rail. Pretty easy/cheap to fix. Just know the sunroofs in these cars are a known annoyance
oil leaks - can come from a number of places but the oil filter housing gasket as well as a failing head gasket are common spots.
power steering fluid leaks - another common leak point

As for the specific car in general, don't worry about the clutch unless you can feel it slipping. Members here have ZHPs that are over 200k miles and still using the original clutch. I'm not big on aftermarket sound systems in our cars because it requires a different head unit/amp, but if it works for you, then there's no issue. I personally like the car. If the PPI checks out and the seller is willing to go down to $9k, you're in for a decent car (seriously). Alpine white is one of my favorite colors on these cars and while some lament the beige interior, I quite like it. Move on it before someone else does!

As an aside, will you do your own maintenance or have a shop do it?

[mykilleaf]

Wow, thanks for taking the time to write such a detailed review! I'll definitely get a PPI done and look into those things.

I'm graduating in May and I need a car to commute to work starting in July. I'm a little concerned about reliability of buying a 13 year old car, though these seem to be pretty reliable if you take care of them.

Ideally, I'm trying to get into doing maintenance myself both to cut costs and I find the manual labor rewarding/relaxing. I'm a bit concerned I won't have the technical knowledge or tools to do some of the stuff you mentioned. Also might be difficult given I will probably be renting a shack in San Jose without much space/tolerance for working on your car in the parking lot.

[BMWCurves]

Graduating from...college? Congrats!

Plenty of people commute with ZHPs, but they are considered to be more expensive to maintain than say a Toyota or Honda. Reliability-wise, you've pretty much hit the nail on the head. If you stay on top of maintenance, they'll take care of you. There are some odds and ends that can pop up, but nothing should be crippling except for the cooling system failing on you.

Doing your own maintenance is really a function of three things: having the time, space, and tools. Because the E46 was such a good selling car with a strong enthusiast following, there is a DIY guide online for pretty much any maintenance item (not to mention maintenance manuals like Bentley). Before I purchased my ZHP the most I had ever done on a car was rotate tires, an oil change, and changed spark plugs. Now I've done most of the maintenance on my car. I'm not particularly mechanically savvy, but having all of the aforementioned things does make it doable, and you learn a skill in the process. If I can manage it skill-wise, you and pretty much anyone else can. Not having the tools or space does make it tougher, but the initial cost of buying the tools will be about the cost of labor for any maintenance item but now you have the tool and the new skill/knowledge.

Let us know how the car goes.

[330i Lover]

Did you buy the car?

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[joeybananaz18]

This one popped up last night on cars.com.

https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/704527658/overview/

It's Imola and seems to have the alcantara interior so Im assuming that it is a true ZHP. But the real kicker is the 55k miles (advertised). I'm waiting on my info from the seller but at that price it looks pretty good. I'm also considering picking up this one below...

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?20210-2004-330i-ZHP-6MT-155k-miles-Philly-suburbs

So, imola with 55k, or an incredibly rare oxford with 3X the mileage?

[A1Gio2]

This one popped up last night on cars.com.

https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/704527658/overview/

It's Imola and seems to have the alcantara interior so Im assuming that it is a true ZHP. But the real kicker is the 55k miles (advertised). I'm waiting on my info from the seller but at that price it looks pretty good. I'm also considering picking up this one below...

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?20210-2004-330i-ZHP-6MT-155k-miles-Philly-suburbs

So, imola with 55k, or an incredibly rare oxford with 3X the mileage?

Personally, I'd take the oxford. It's an awesome color and it looks to be well maintained.

[BMWCurves]

I'd definitely want some more details than what that cars.com ad has to offer before I could make a smart choice.

[webster]

I spoke at length with the seller of the Oxford/tan sedan. He's a very nice guy. His car is indeed well maintained and in fact is one of only three ZHP's with that color combo and manual transmission.

55k miles is hard to turn down though, if everything else checks out.

[Vas]

Proper maintained car > low mileage car

[nextelbuddy]

Proper maintained car > low mileage car

sadly some people really cant get over this. there are people that despite everything on my car being replaced.. because my odometer says 166k they would pass and walk because their brains are hard wired to equate value = low miles/low odometer.

unless you are a collector that needs a 10k mile car and wont put more miles on it.. then the argument of "i need/want" low miles goes out the door or should at least but it never will honestly. people are strange creatures and are firm in their ways.

[Sreten]

sadly some people really cant get over this. there are people that despite everything on my car being replaced.. because my odometer says 166k they would pass and walk because their brains are hard wired to equate value = low miles/low odometer.

unless you are a collector that needs a 10k mile car and wont put more miles on it.. then the argument of "i need/want" low miles goes out the door or should at least but it never will honestly. people are strange creatures and are firm in their ways.

I completely agree and this is exactly why I would take 55k miles at this price.
You can drive it for a few years and when the time comes to sell it, it will still be a relatively low mileage car (depends how much you drive) and you can probably get the same money for it, if not more.

[slater]

I completely agree and this is exactly why I would take 55k miles at this price.
You can drive it for a few years and when the time comes to sell it, it will still be a relatively low mileage car (depends how much you drive) and you can probably get the same money for it, if not more.

i can see both sides of the coin. some people just don't drive that much.

somehow for a work-from-home'r, i drive a metric buttload.... so a properly maintained high-miler is fine for me. and preferable.

[joeybananaz18]

I spoke at length with the seller of the Oxford/tan sedan. He's a very nice guy. His car is indeed well maintained and in fact is one of only three ZHP's with that color combo and manual transmission.

55k miles is hard to turn down though, if everything else checks out.

Yes I've been speaking with him as well. He's been very attentive to my questions and concerns. I like it. Something about OG looks so great. Would it be sacrilegious to dye the leather cinnamon? It's one of 3 but I can unofficially make it 1 of 1 lol.


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[joeybananaz18]

Proper maintained car > low mileage car

That is exactly my thought. Also the argument can be made that a low mileage car of the same year has spent more time sitting around not doing anything. Which means a greater chance seals and gaskets have more time to dry up and go bad. I don't know how much water that idea holds but I've heard other state that. Or maybe I'm just convincing myself to go for the OG lol


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[webster]

Yes I've been speaking with him as well. He's been very attentive to my questions and concerns. I like it. Something about OG looks so great. Would it be sacrilegious to dye the leather cinnamon? It's one of 3 but I can unofficially make it 1 of 1 lol.


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Where are you located? Can you go test the car?

[joeybananaz18]

Where are you located? Can you go test the car?

Im in Manhattan, is about 2 hours away in Philly. I'm in the process of arranging a PPI to be done at Bavarian Specialties. He stated that shop knows the car very well. A friend who logs a lot of track time down in the Philly area also recommended Bavarian Specialties as well.

[BMWCurves]

Im in Manhattan, is about 2 hours away in Philly. I'm in the process of arranging a PPI to be done at Bavarian Specialties. He stated that shop knows the car very well. A friend who logs a lot of track time down in the Philly area also recommended Bavarian Specialties as well.

Bavarian is where I used to take my car as well while I lived in Philly. Decent shop.

[joeybananaz18]

Bavarian is where I used to take my car as well while I lived in Philly. Decent shop.

good to hear. I'n not looking for anything over the top. Just an honest shop to let me know if I should pick it up or not. Something tells me though that unless they say "hey did you know there are mice living in this motor?", I'm probably going to pick it up

[NYRhockey]

Holy shit, 55K for less than $10K? If the PPI checks out that is a steal.

[joeybananaz18]

Holy shit, 55K for less than $10K? If the PPI checks out that is a steal.

Well my decision became a bit easier as that IR is sold. Not surprised, hopefully the new owner will be on here.


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[NYRhockey]

Well my decision became a bit easier as that IR is sold. Not surprised, hopefully the new owner will be on here.


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That sux. I also doubt it went to someone here and most likely went to a dealer or someone looking to flip it. There's money to be made there


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[joeybananaz18]

That sux. I also doubt it went to someone here and most likely went to a dealer or someone looking to flip it. There's money to be made there


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it'll be collecting dust as EAG in no time lol

[NYRhockey]

Ha, I doubt EAG goes for another imola zhp after the 2 they've had sitting for a while. Just too high a price.

However, I bought mine at $15k with 52k on it a few months ago and around that same time bimmers r us bought the one they have for $16k (i was negotiating with the seller) so someone can get around that for this one.


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[fredo]

Someone could make $2k profit quickly on this car.

[joeybananaz18]

Someone could make $2k profit quickly on this car.

I shamefully admit that went through my mind more than once <looks around to make sure he doesn't get whacked by the mafia>

[SSBMW]

Ha, I doubt EAG goes for another imola zhp after the 2 they've had sitting for a while. Just too high a price.

However, I bought mine at $15k with 52k on it a few months ago and around that same time bimmers r us bought the one they have for $16k (i was negotiating with the seller) so someone can get around that for this one.


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Interesting. I was looking closely at the one Bimmers R Us has but it's just too much money. So they are trying to make $6k off it. I guess that's the problem with liking/wanting cars in high demand; dealing with people trying to make money off that.

[NYRhockey]

Interesting. I was looking closely at the one Bimmers R Us has but it's just too much money. So they are trying to make $6k off it. I guess that's the problem with liking/wanting cars in high demand; dealing with people trying to make money off that.

BRU tries too hard to be EAG-lite and charge too much for their cars, which is why their inventory sits for so long. The one for $23K was bought in mid January and at that price it's likely to sit for a lot longer.

[Lime]

Hello,

I'm new, from NOVA, and I've been looking through the threads for a while now while I search for my first ZHP.

I've seen this in CL for the past 2 months, but I was concerned because it never made it to the for Sale threads in the forum.
https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/cto/d/bmw-m-sport-zhp-package-clean/6215964607.html

Should I just go check it out and get a PPI or do any of you guys know anything about it from a former/current member?

Thanks!

[ELCID86]

Hello,

I'm new, from NOVA, and I've been looking through the threads for a while now while I search for my first ZHP.

I've seen this in CL for the past 2 months, but I was concerned because it never made it to the for Sale threads in the forum.
https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/cto/d/bmw-m-sport-zhp-package-clean/6215964607.html

Should I just go check it out and get a PPI or do any of you guys know anything about it from a former/current member?

Thanks!

Hey and welcome. I don't recognize that car. I live in Stafford (20 min from Hood-bridge). Don Adolpho lives nearby also. I'm happy to meet up with you to check it out.

[Lime]

Hi Shawn Thanks! I'll contact the seller this week to check when the seller is available and will PM you.

[ELCID86]

Hi Shawn Thanks! I'll contact the seller this week to check when the seller is available and will PM you.

Text 703-994-030nine or email shawn.faherty@gmail.com work better. Thanks.

[UWISHU1]

FYI for everyone: https://sacramento.craigslist.org/cto/d/2006-bmw-330ci-zhp/6350624135.html

[BMWCurves]

FYI for everyone: https://sacramento.craigslist.org/cto/d/2006-bmw-330ci-zhp/6350624135.html

Seller's already come down $1k in a few days.

[UWISHU1]

He'll have to end up under $22k, and probably sell under $20k.

[VR46]

Hello Fellow ZHP Lovers,
I'm new around here and this is my first post. I live in Bay Area, CA and been looking for my 330i ZHP since some time now. My usage is primarily going to be commute and few weekend drive once in a while, hence I'm looking at putting under 10k miles per year.

Few days ago, I found this https://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/cto/d/super-clean-2005-bmwi-zhp/6385402900.html

I checked the vehicle personally (didn't get a chance to drive it myself owing to bad lights + rains but I sat as passenger briefly) and here are my thoughts:
1. With 165,xxx miles, I'm not sure how long the original transmission is going to hold. I'm led to believe that if proper servicing is done all along, then it may see well beyond 200k miles. What do you guys think of this transmission?
2. Barring few minute paint chips at front (caused by debris), the paint and exterior is really in good condition.
3. Steering wheel cloth is showing the signs of wear and I'd like to change it to perforated leather or something.

I've asked for CarFax report which I'm yet to receive. Will share it once I get my hands on it. I've also requested for PPI to be done, this is going to take some time due to Thanksgiving.

What do you guys think of this? From your collective experience, I'd like to know:
1. What do you think of this car condition?
2. What could be the near future (between 6 months to 1 year) maintenance requirement(s) of this beauty?
3. Is this a good deal at that asking price?
4. What else I should be worried about before putting my hard earned $$ ?

Many thanks in advance.

[wstr75]

From my experience buying and subsequently fixing a ZHP 6MT convertible with 107K miles, the worry would not be so much about the automatic transmission, rather it would be about whether or not the cooling and suspension components will soon be needing replacement. Speaking to the previous owner about the status of those component areas would be beneficial and if they had not been replaced, it would be prudent to pay significantly less for what then is a car in need of that type of maintenance. Here are links showing the component costs involved:

https://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330Ci-M54_3.0L/Engine/Cooling/

https://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330Ci-M54_3.0L/Suspension/Refresh_Kits/

[VR46]

From my experience buying and subsequently fixing a ZHP 6MT convertible with 107K miles, the worry would not be so much about the automatic transmission, rather it would be about whether or not the cooling and suspension components will soon be needing replacement.
Thanks wstr75, points well noted and I'll check those things.

Just an update: Nothing has moved further (carfax and/or PPI) due to holiday times... maybe by next week or two.
Happy Holidays everyone !!

[d-rod]

Give me the vin# and I can check it for you.

[tigerm7]

Hello friends,

Looking to get some advice. I've been on and off for a ZHP search for four years now, decided to finally pull the trigger. Found one in Chicagoland where I'm from:
https://chicago.craigslist.org/wcl/cto/d/2004-bmw-330ci/6442198962.html

We agreed to a rather good price. Seller is an older gentlemen, a BMW CCA member, and overall an enthusiast. Car has had all fluids replaced within last 10k miles, transmission serviced and water pump replaced. Interior needs some reconditioning but exterior is good condition with exception of a couple dings. Test drove it, and everything checked out really well. Couldn't spot anything mechanical.

Downside is its got four owners, current owner has only had it for a year and half ~ and CarFax shows one accident. Accident I'm told didn't require anything to be replaced, bumper was repaired; happened when he was turning into a lane (seller has repair order as well).

I'm not worried about resale value as my intent is to keep this until it runs to the ground and have another bimmer as my daily driver (though I'll DD this for a year on winter tires and I take a lot of road trips). Just want to hear some general thoughts, would you buy this at 8k? For something that you want to keep long term but not necessarily are in a rush? Ideally I'd want one with 1-2 owners and maintained like this with cold weather package but these are hard to find as is.

[John in VA]

If you had found the car 1.5 years ago it would have had 3 owners = closer to your ideal. At least the current owner performed some possibly deferred maintenance. Mileage is still considered as low, and price seems within reason, to me.
Re: CarFax - they don't show all of the history, unfortunately. If the repair was done professionally & you're happy with the appearance, don't worry.
If it doesn't have all the options you require & you're not needing to buy now you can wait, but Imola coupes are special, to some!
Good luck with your decision!

[fredo]

I say this is a keeper. Good miles, good price, honest seller. Mechanically sound. Most important: you had chance to drive the car. Plenty of other cars look nice on pics and paper ... but it's a different story when you see and drive them.

[GMM1]

You're on the east coast, so prices tend to be a bit higher. However, for those miles, I think you can do better on price.

Those are not the stock wheels. If I was the buyer, I'd have to find some style M135 wheels to put on the car. If the wheels aren't important to you, though, then no worries.

With those miles, though, there are some key maintenance issues that should have been addressed by this point (at 100,000 miles). Without a service history, there is no way to tell -- for sure -- how this car has been maintained over the years.

What's your budget, Nomar?

Hi, I’m new here. Bought a ZHP with 186k miles. What maintenance issues should have been addressed?
Gavin

[joeybananaz18]

Hi, I’m new here. Bought a ZHP with 186k miles. What maintenance issues should have been addressed?
Gavin

Welcome. I suppose a lot of things could vary from car to car, but there are e46-specific things like the cooling system that need to be checked. Did the car come with any maintenance history? Did you have a pre-purchase inspection done? If so what did that reveal?

[tigerm7]

Thank you @John in VA and @fredo. I'm going to proceed with a PPI, if everything checks out I think I'll proceed despite the shaky history.

[John in VA]

@GMM1 - check out the "Read Me" & Stickies at the top of these links for common issues & solutions:
http://forum.e46fanatics.com/forumdisplay.php?f=4
http://forum.e46fanatics.com/forumdisplay.php?f=27
http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=98

[kurupt17]

Wondering if this looks like a good deal. https://www.militarycarlot.com/car/randolph-afb/tx/2004-bmw-330ci/23454. Only thing I don't like is the color, prefer black or silver.

[fredo]

It's a good deal IMHO. Looks sharp.

[ELCID86]

Wondering if this looks like a good deal. https://www.militarycarlot.com/car/randolph-afb/tx/2004-bmw-330ci/23454. Only thing I don't like is the color, prefer black or silver.

Worth a look-see.

[DatZHP]

Hey guys,

So im looking to join the ZHP family and was wondering if you guys can give some pointers. Theres a couple im looking at, the links being https://www.easyautosales.com/used-cars/2006-BMW-3-Series-330Ci-10208318.html?utm_source=car.mitula.us&utm_medium=referral#

the second one is https://cars.trovit.com/listing/used-2005-bmw-330ci.uXO1D1X1k91T

Im still waiting for them to contact me, but i wanted to see what you guys think of them. I live in Maryland, so both of these are too far for me to go check out. If anyone is close and willing to check them out in person that would be helpful. Let me know what you guys think, or what types of things i should be looking for.

Thanks

[joeybananaz18]

Despite the first option having the performance intake, id probably go with the second as it looks like its been cared for and comes with all records, which in my book is almost priceless.

[DatZHP]

Well, i asked(in my initial message) the first guy about maintenance records. Havent heard back from him yet, not really expecting to till mid saturday, if not till monday. Also i forgot to mention what i was looking for in case anyone was wondering. Im mostly trying to get an 05 or 06, MT(of course), Coupe only, dark colors in/out and somewhere under 100k miles(mostly because getting the loan might be an issue if its too far above 100).

Im not too concerned about the aftermarket intake, would care more to know how it was driven. Also really would like to see those records. :3

Sorry for not mentioning what i was looking for at the start.

[bandwagn]

Im not too concerned about the aftermarket intake, would care more to know how it was driven. Also really would like to see those records. :3.

The BMW Performance intake is actually a good thing - they are NLA and going for decent money - THE oem option for an intake upgrade.

A used dealer is unlikely to have maintenance records - plan for a PPI and budget for remedial items..

[DatZHP]

I should be able to handle that, this will not be my daily driver, so i am ok with small issues here and there. Granted records are always nice, takes almost all of the guess work out of maintenance. But i still have not heard from either person, so ill kinda take any biters at this point. Any of you guys know of any other sites with cars to check out? The convertibles are everywhere, but its hard to find a regular coupe with around 100k or less miles.

[DatZHP]

So im managed to get a hold of one of the two original people i contacted. I managed to get a hold of the dealer that has this car https://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/vehicledetails.xhtml?listingId=427742407&zip=28273&referrer=%2Fcars-for-sale%2Fsearchresults.xhtml%3Fzip%3D28273%26startYe ar%3D2006%26sortBy%3DdistanceASC%26vehicleStyleCod es%3DCOUPE%26incremental%3Dall%26firstRecord%3D0%2 6endYear%3D2006%26modelCodeList%3D330CI%26makeCode List%3DBMW%26searchRadius%3D0&startYear=2006&numRecords=25&vehicleStyleCodes=COUPE&firstRecord=0&endYear=2006&modelCodeList=330CI&makeCodeList=BMW&searchRadius=0&makeCode1=BMW&modelCode1=330CI, It seems the car was mostly used as a lease car, then sold at an auction. The carfax shows some of the maintenance records on it(seems like it was in service at the right intervals) and the asking price 17.9k.

What do you guys think? Good, bad? I can probably talk him down on the price. Anyone close enough to check out the car for me in person?

[BMWCurves]

Personally, $18k is steep, for a few reasons:
A) The mileage - it's not commensurate with the price. Yes, low mileage ZHPs are becoming rarer by the day, but still. For $18k I would at least expect <60k miles, not pushing 75k miles like this car.
B) The options - it does not appear to have either the Cold Weather or the Premium Packages. While their absence is not make or break, their asking price of $18k should reflect a well-equipped car. It doesn't have heated seats, park distance control (PDC), or navigation, either.
C) The body - Although it doesn't directly affect price, the car is a coupe. The Performance Package (for some) is really only worth it on the sedan since the E46 M3 never came in a sedan version, so this is as close as one could get to a sedan E46 M3 from the factory. Again, this does not affect price, but something to consider.
D) Maintenance - this is the big one for me. I paid $14k for my car with 49k miles. I ended up replacing most of the stuff you would replace on a car with double the mileage. Why? Not because the car didn't follow BMW's scheduled maintenance, but because the car's parts were old with age rather than miles. That includes brakes, suspension, cooling system, belts, pulleys, spark plugs, fluids, etc, to the tune of a few thousand dollars. So while I do have a low mileage car (just crossed 61k), I essentially paid a price premium for it, with no significant benefit because I would have done similar maintenance on a car with 100k. My guess is this car will need to do some maintenance for similar reasons.
E) Bimmers R Us - they're in the business of securing low-ish mileage examples of desirable BMWs and bumping up the price pretty steeply. I'd personally struggle to do business with them.

All that said: the car itself looks like it'd be a very nice example to drive, but I can't get over that price.

[DatZHP]

Yeah the price i felt was steep too once i asked the guy, ive seen others before a while back in the same condition that were going for like 14-15k. The non heated seats are not really an issue for me since i didnt even want the leather seats. With the matter of it being a coupe, that is what i was looking for, not too fond of the sedans. If anything, Navi would be "neat" to have, but not necessary as i am used to being without one.

But like you said, that price is an issue; My immediate reaction when he said it was that it was too high. If i can get them down to say.. 15.5k(altought i honestly doubt they would) what do you think of that for its price? Or should i just keep looking?

[holyc0w]

The non heated seats are not really an issue for me since i didnt even want the leather seats.

You can get heated cloth seats.

[BMWCurves]

Yeah the price i felt was steep too once i asked the guy, ive seen others before a while back in the same condition that were going for like 14-15k. The non heated seats are not really an issue for me since i didnt even want the leather seats. With the matter of it being a coupe, that is what i was looking for, not too fond of the sedans. If anything, Navi would be "neat" to have, but not necessary as i am used to being without one.

But like you said, that price is an issue; My immediate reaction when he said it was that it was too high. If i can get them down to say.. 15.5k(altought i honestly doubt they would) what do you think of that for its price? Or should i just keep looking?

I still think $15k is high, but you're also buying from a dealer, so maybe not.

[DatZHP]

Ah, sorry i didnt know, never really seen any heated cloth ones on these. Didnt think it was an option.

[DatZHP]

I still think $15k is high, but you're also buying from a dealer, so maybe not.

Yeah this is my mindset currently, i really doubt since they are a dealer, that they will budge much on the price.

[droman81]

Don’t settle. I looked for a good six months. If you are really dead set on a zhp you will find the right one if you are patient.


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[DatZHP]

Ive thought of this as well, but they are getting rather harder to find the more time passes(obviously). So thats why I just wanted to make sure im not giving up one of my good options here. The price is really the issue for me, as far as what the car has, it basically is what im looking for. Even the seats being cloth is somewhat of a plus to me, not really a fan of the leather. But of course i could get that swapped out of another car if i wanted.

But i really am set on a ZHP though, only the coupe though, not interested in verts or sedans. Its funny because ive found more sedans and verts than coupes too.

[BMWCurves]

The other side of the coin is if it checks all the right boxes, perhaps it's worth it. Clean alcantara/cloth interiors are much harder to come by nowadays. Also, if you're planning to keep it long term, then again, maybe the high price is worth it.

Have you driven a ZHP before?

[Ridgelab]

I too am looking to possibly join the ZHP family. My budget was originally set at $7k but if find a well kept one with higher miles, I may go to $10k. 6MT is a must have, prefer coupe w/alcantara and heated seats. When I saw this one pop up on CL https://phoenix.craigslist.org/evl/cto/d/ci-zhp-imola-red-alcantara/6546366801.html I started drooling, though a little higher than I wanted to spend. I went to look at it this weekend and found the pictures are very well taken to hide some of its flaws.

- all wheels have been curbed (huge bummer), some chewed up worse than others. The front tires look to be worn on the inside, which leaves me to believe possible suspension issue or maybe it just needs to be aligned.
- Interior isn't too bad. Cube trim is somewhat scratched in places, making it obvious. A-pillar trim is slouching. Hole in shift boot almost like a cig burn.
- No service records at all. He was not sure when the coolant system was replaced and he's only owned it for a couple months.
- Exterior wasn't too bad. He plasti-dipped the kidneys and the rear badging to black, most likely while on the vehicle. The driver and pass lower window trim was discoloring and may need to be replaced. Ding on pass door and the front fascia appears to be repainted as it was really smooth and no rock chips. He said that there was a clear bra on it that he took off due to discoloration. I didn't see any evidence of one.
- It drove fine, though a little stumbling/surging around 3500 rpm under light acceleration and 4500 rpm under heavier acceleration. He thought the MAF needed to be cleaned to get rid of the stumbling.

Other than that it looked pretty good and need an in depth detail. I'm a stickler about having non-chewed up wheels, so I was pretty upset when I saw the conditions of these. Also replacing the tires was annoying. Since there was no records and the overall condition, I offered him $8500 and was turned down since he had a lot more than that into the vehicle ($11.5k). Am I around the correct pricing for this vehicle or am I low balling?

Thanks,
Mike

[DatZHP]

Idk man, with it being Imola red, that one of the very rare colors to find, especially in the coupe. This would make the price pretty high in my mind, but, that being said, everything else you listed can be a big deal. I wasnt able to see the wear on the tires all that well, so i cant really guess if it has a susp issue. The hole in the boot, if that is a cig burn, it will be horrible to get the smell out. No service records is an issue as well, it could mean anything, maybe the previous owner took good care of it. But, you cant be sure unless you spoke to that person, im going to guess that this guy didnt really care for it since he only has had it a couple months.

Now you just have to ask the question, why is this guy passing it up so fast if he just got the car basically? If it does stumble like that, i would try cleaning the MAF first(if you get the car that is).

[Ridgelab]

I hear you on that, an Imola Alcantara Coupe is at the top of my want list! I just couldn't get past some of the unknowns on the vehicle. The seller said the previous owner was a collector, though the car was sold through a third party. I believe this was their FS post: https://www.autozin.com/2004-bmw-3-series-330ci-11898430-atzlisting?utm_source=Yakaz&utm_medium=CPC&utm_campaign=global&trmsource=lclfeed

I guess I was just nit picking some of the issues with it and was doing the math in my head to get the car to where I'd want it to be. I figured I'd be in it another $2k with new front tires, refinished/used wheels, coolant, VANOS and other misc parts. I wasn't trying to low ball the kid at that price but I didn't think it was worth his asking price or even at 11.5k. What would be the correct offer on this car?

[holyc0w]

Yeah, there seems like there could be some maintenance to do there. It might be over $2,000. If it was the MAF, they probably would've tried cleaning it already.

[DatZHP]

Not sure if this reply was meant for me, but ive never driven a ZHP before, and i am looking to keep the one i get long term. The one i posted was the black one with cloth interior.

[Day2z]

Hi folks. It's admittedly been ages since I've posted to this forum, although I do still tend to "lurk" here on occasion. :biggrin

That said, one of my pastimes is to peruse Craigslist's car listings for BMWs, as our market (Seattle) tends to generate a number of new and interesting listings on a regular basis. (and the occasional "gem") Case in point is this 2004 ZHP MT coupe with very low miles, just listed within the last 24 hours:

https://seattle.craigslist.org/tac/cto/d/2004-bmw-330ci-zhp-package/6561277712.html

I've always been partial to silver BMW's, and this one - with past "enthusiast" owners - looks to have been well-kept. If I had a bigger garage and the means (i.e. didn't have two kids headed off to college in the fall :)), I'd be tempted to give this one a look myself. Hope this may be of interest to someone who can appreciate it for what it is.

[Day2z]

Ok, here's one other that I just stumbled across:

https://seattle.craigslist.org/see/cto/d/2006-bmw-330ci-convertible/6554958267.html

This too looks like a nice example, having always been garaged and with low miles. This also caught my eye: "In the last 3 years I've put only 11,000 miles on it since I mostly work from home."

Take care.

Pat

[slimmj0k3r]

Looking for some advice on this? I don’t have a lot of the service history but love the spec.

https://inlandempire.craigslist.org/ctd/d/2005-bmw-330i-zhp-rare-1/6558453065.html

[KTS317]

Looking for some advice on this? I don’t have a lot of the service history but love the spec.

https://inlandempire.craigslist.org/ctd/d/2005-bmw-330i-zhp-rare-1/6558453065.html

In my honest opinion, the modifications make me slightly weary of the previous owner and price is too high for the amount of miles. In my head I was thinking somewhere around $6,000...

The oddly placed M-badges and headlight washer covers not matching are what make think twice. It looks like it is in decent shape though. Would love an alpine white zhp.

I’m no professional though so don’t only listen to me [emoji846]


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[slimmj0k3r]

Ha, modifications had me a little weary also. I offered them 6k cash to pickup this weekend and they said no. Although it is only one owner, the miles are high and for a little more I could get an enthusiast owned that’s sorted with records. But gosh that alacantara on white sure is nice lol

[fredo]

The AW is posted at $8k on the dealer’s website. This sounds good to me:

“fresh services including shifter rebuild, front control arm bushings, differential reseal and service, valve cover gasket, new tires, new windshield, new fog lamp housings, oil service and more.”

[DatZHP]

Hey guys, I was sent this link https://cnj.craigslist.org/cto/d/2005-bmw-330ci-zhp/6555276622.html today. Am actually interested in this one, although photos are limited, one thing i saw was concerning. In the interior photo, it looks like the cloth in the top right were the windshield is is coming off the frame. What would you have to say about that? Improper care? Humidity over time? Is it a big issue?

Personally that would bother me, so i will end up getting it fixed.

[KTS317]

Hey guys, I was sent this link https://cnj.craigslist.org/cto/d/2005-bmw-330ci-zhp/6555276622.html today. Am actually interested in this one, although photos are limited, one thing i saw was concerning. In the interior photo, it looks like the cloth in the top right were the windshield is is coming off the frame. What would you have to say about that? Improper care? Humidity over time? Is it a big issue?

Personally that would bother me, so i will end up getting it fixed.

It happens to almost all of them eventually :) I think the glue dries out and let’s the fabric loose. Happens to the rear pillars also. You can fix them yourself or buy new pillars but good luck finding alcantara pillars that aren’t super expensive.

That thing looks clean!


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[fredo]

Check this link for pillar restoration :

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?21388-A-Pillar-Restoration

[DatZHP]

Cool thanks, ill end up using this guide to restore em if i can get the car.

[DejaExotica]

Yall think this is a good deal?
Hey whastup you guys, my name is Deja, Im new to this group so bear with me. Within the next week or so, im planning on meeting up with a guy whos flying from Chicago to Florida for me to possibly purchase his vacation car. Its an automatic 2005 330ci BMW vert w 85k miles on it and impeccable sand leather interior. Unsure as of now if theres any sport/cold weather packages on the car, but its definitely not a ZHP. The cars condition is aesthetically perfect from what I can see on the pictures and he claims the mechanics are running as they should be.

Lets just say after I get the car thoroughly diagnosed and checked to see if its mechanically sound, and it needs no work at all, do you think that his asking price 8250$ is too steep? I was going to bargain with him, starting off at 5k, with my cap on my budget being 6k cash in hand.

KBB states that the private range fro this cars pricing is from 5,394-8,767$. The avg. private party value is at 7,081$. (with the mileage caculated into the pricing)

I would only pay my budgect cap if everything indeed did check out to be perfect. I wanted to know if you all had any bargaining advice or opinions on my starting bargaining price of 5k? Do you think it should be lower, or is it a good starting point?
I ask because 8k for a 14 year old car to me is a little steep, no matter the condition. I will post updates as I learn if the car has multiple owners or not, if all the paperwork for mechanical repairs is present, if the car is possibly a sport package, when I actually view the car, and what the mechanics say when I get the car to get looked at. Please let me know what yall think!

[dave.h.hahn]

Hey Everyone-
There's 2004 330i ZHP for sale very local to me, and I'm trying to figure out what a fair price is for it.
Here's the details:
2004 BMW 330i ZHP sedan
I've been reading here in depth, and it's a ZHP: cube interior, M wheels and steering wheel, etc.
120,000 miles
Transmission: auto
Colors: black exterior, black leather interior, tinted windows.
Here's the kicker: salvage/rebuilt title

I rate the exterior as a 7/10: black paint looks pretty good. The car was rear ended in 2016, and "rebuilt" then. All body panels look to be the same black; I can't find a fade in from a paint job. But the front end has a fair number of rock chips, and there's a handful of 1cm rust spots in the rain gutters. 2 wheels have a little bit of curb rash

Interior: 7/10. Leather seats look good. There's some cracking on the driver's bolster, as expected. The A pillars are starting to peel, and in the right light, I saw some "waves" in the dash that looks like it might be delaminating. Headliner is solid. There's some marks on the plastic bits on the console, but everything works well. Window tint is good.

Mechanical: Current owner has had the car for about 2 years and only has records for what he's done. He's done the radiator work, as well as brakes and a new alternator. Tires have plenty of tread, but rear tires are some off brand that I didn't recognize.

Test drive: car drives well. No hesitation in engine at any rpm, car tracks straight, stops well, no extra rattles.

I bought the Carfax, which shows a lot of servicing and repairs, but I'm guessing it's incomplete.

Carfax says the car is worth $5000. Trucar puts the value at $2800. KBB puts the value between $2800 and $4800 if I rate the car in "good" condition, but KBB notes that it does not value cars with a salvage title (they recommend taking 20%-40% off the asking price).
Needless to say, the owner is asking well north of any of those values.

I would email the carfax with anyone via email, if they want to look at it.
What does the board say about a fair price for this car?

[fredo]

I'm going with $4,000 tops. I will send you a PM with my email address, I'm curious about the carfax.

[Shaka778]

hey all it’s been a while since I posted and that’s because my baby was totaled, about a year ago she survived the trip from Maui to Texas only to be taken out by a very large puddle. All that to say I found this but sounds to good to be true. What do you guys think? I messaged the dealer about getting a Carfax hope to hear from him soon.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1372386323151113/

[28firefighter]

Assuming it’s clean title, Carfax etc and is in decent shape, that thing is a steal IMO. Looks nice and even if you have to bring it up to date on maintenance, you’d still be in good shape.

[pedro2u]

Assuming it’s clean title, Carfax etc and is in decent shape, that thing is a steal IMO. Looks nice and even if you have to bring it up to date on maintenance, you’d still be in good shape.

looks amazing and a steal is right! But gotta say, the hair stands up on my neck when I see the "Collision Paint and Repair" shop in one of the pictures :facepalm

[28firefighter]

Haha! I saw that. At least it's across the street?

[pedro2u]

Haha! I saw that. At least it's across the street?

looked up reviews on the seller from the license plate frame - whoa. I didn't write those reviews and don't know if they're accurate - but yikes

[holyc0w]

And...sold

There are a lot of bad reviews, but there are worse places.

[Shaka778]

Contacted them and it was sold the day I saw it, search continues

[dbrown197]

Newbie here. I'd like to buy a fairly low mileage ZHP convertible - either black or gray with black interior. I've found a few but seem a bit high. Does anyone have any thoughts? I've read that bimmersrus has elevated pricing. I realize that the automatic convertibles are less coveted so would think we would see lower prices. Thanks in advance.

1. CO - https://www.adiautosport.com/inventory/2005-bmw-3-series-330ci/291422
2. MD - https://www.avaziauto.com/details/used-2005-bmw-3-series/68802295
3. MO - https://blusolutions.homenetinc.com/bimmersrus/details2.asp?path-taken=used&vehicle_id=2976#tippytop

[Vas]

Newbie here. I'd like to buy a fairly low mileage ZHP convertible - either black or gray with black interior. I've found a few but seem a bit high. Does anyone have any thoughts? I've read that bimmersrus has elevated pricing. I realize that the automatic convertibles are less coveted so would think we would see lower prices. Thanks in advance.

1. CO - https://www.adiautosport.com/inventory/2005-bmw-3-series-330ci/291422
2. MD - https://www.avaziauto.com/details/used-2005-bmw-3-series/68802295
3. MO - https://blusolutions.homenetinc.com/bimmersrus/details2.asp?path-taken=used&vehicle_id=2976#tippytop

Are you in the market for an auto? Currently there is a nice example listed on bring a trailer and is mystic blue and black leather with a 6spd.

[dbrown197]

I.m looking for an AT, black interior, black or grey exterior. I'm flexible but at this stage of my life, the auto is top on the list.

[dbrown197]

General question. Are ZHP auto convertibles with lower miles selling for 3-4K above KBB?

[holyc0w]

What's the KBB range?

There is a bit of a premium for lower mileage cars, like the 50,000-60,000 ones posted above. That's around 4,000 miles per year, which is not too common. Going to 100,000 miles will get a few or several thousand off the price. I'm not sure what difference KBB is showing between the two.

[BMWCurves]

KBB is not a good metric for private party sale price. Even though you can option out an E46 with the Performance Package, it is several grand below what is probably more accurate. My car, with 78k miles, manual transmission, in pretty good condition, good maintenance, etc is only worth $7-9k according to them. But I am confident it would sell for a lot more, in the $12k+ range easy.

[dbrown197]

Thanks. That's helpful. So the few I listed in my 1st post are probably slightly elevated (coming from a dealer) as opposed to grossly elevated. That's good to know. Now the question remains, do I have the patience to wait for one to pop up for sale by a private owner.....

[BMWCurves]

Only time will tell. I used to be way more on top of what cars were going for before I started grad school, but I've lost touch in those two years. From what I can tell, the low mileage ones are really going up in value, some might argue stupidly so.

[dbrown197]

So I found a somewhat local ZHP convertible (graphite metallic with black interior). It's high mileage (168K) but is pretty clean. PPI found some common issues like front strut leaking, air/oil separator and drain hoses leaking, needed control arm bushings and a minor leak from the transmission selector. Seller plans to take care of all these items regardless of whether I purchase or not. As I see prices of the lower mileage (and some higher mileage ones) cars continue to rise, I'm curious as to what others think what the value is of a higher mileage car such as this? He's asking 9800 and is negotiable. I think that's high. Am I wrong?

[BADCLOWN]

I think that depends on maintenance history and the overall condition of the interior/exterior