Re: 2002 vs. 3.0 Cs vs. 635 CS Which is more Fun? (archive)

I currently own a well restored 75 2002 and am looking at gettting a 3.0 CS or a 635 CSi in addition. Having not owned or really driven either of these much, can anyone share their thoughts about the pros and cons of each (e.g. driving experience, cost of ownership, availability of parts and skilled mechanics). At this point I'm leaning towards the 3.0 CS and considering an automatic (I know, a stick is probably the only real enthusiast choice, but traffic here in Atlanta is the pits).
Thanks,
Jeff

Well a good 2002 is a fun, tossable car, but without a 5 speed it's highway usefulness is limited (ie long trips are tiring) and the 4 cylinder is not nearly as smooth as the big six.

The CS has all the good looks and classic lines we expect in a older BMW. The six is smooth with lots of power and torque. The suspension in stock form is a might soft. It is a very good car for occasional use but exposing a CS to the weather of every driving is inviting doom (rust)...

There are two 6'ers in my mind the early E12 chassised cars (which are simpler in design and easier to work on although impossible to bump HP w/a chip) and the later E24 cars. Both cars are very good hwy cruisers and handel well. But The later cars have too many electrical tackons for me......

That said, I like the early E12 5'ers for daily use. Easy to work on, robust and moderately quick even in stock US 528i form (0-60 in 8.2 sec or so). The modified versions are a treat to drive!

Actually I like the M535i best of all with it's 3.5 euro six, CR transmission,M car handling. It's in many ways the most balanced BMW that I own.......

67 1600
68 2002 (supercharged)
81' M535i
(2) Alpina B7's

Follow Ups:

[ Follow Ups ] [ CS (E9) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.