The N55 might not typically be cross-shopped with the B48, but that's what it's come down to. Specifically:
2015 435i or 2018 430i.
These cars, aggregated at 45k miles and optioned like I want, are basically the exact same price. Availability favors the 430i by 6:1, but I've found 2 or 3 favorable 2015 435i's, so I know they are achievable.
440's are rare to the point of excluding them from the list. Nothing older than 2015 and no old Ms. No M2. I was cross shopping MB C-class for 5 minutes until I drove one (lol).
I'll drive the car 10k miles per year for 3 years, so a 45k mile car will have 75k on it when I sell, so maybe the N55's issues won't surface during my ownership. During this 3 years, I will retire, and have less folding money, and also as I get older, I'm not as inclined to lay on the concrete working on cars. If something goes kaput, it's going to the indy.
I've driven both and I like so many things about both cars: The linear and smooth power of the N55 is tempered by a less nimble feeling, as if the front tires need air. The B48 is 80% as fun engine-wise, but a bit more nimble, and I can afford a newer B48, so those things make the B48. I am attracted to the newer car because they have less stories to tell.
FWIW I currently have an '07 328i as my thrasher, outside car that I may keep, but that's kinda beside the point except to say I have experience with the brand and love that car.
What would you buy and why? Any insight is appreciated.
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