How about a Range Rover? You can get the new body 2004 for under $10k, that's ballin!!

http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-s...gIndex=1&Log=0

 

i always laugh when i hear or read hand built. to me that means the quality is WORSE than machine built.

 

That paint job looks like Grey Poupon on the top and some sort of heavily spiced brown mustard on the sides.

 

+1.

Robot smoke human in precision and don't make mistake. Humans make tons of mistakes.

 

Maybe its just me but a 10+ year old BMW or MB seems like a terrible idea. There is a reason why the car has depreciated that much and I think its because the people who can afford to pay the cost of maintenance have moved on to other cars.

 

Is different kind of fun, it is fun for a person with a $10k budget to parked a $100k car on his driveway. He just can't drive it much, is ok, it looks badass.

The opposite option is to buy a new Nissan Versa, he can drive that but it looks like poop.

Everything serve a different purpose!

 

Lol, well said. I stand corrected, its a brilliant idea! The only thing is, and correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't that called being a poser?

 

Anyone buying a $10k MB/BMW pretty much indicated that intention. Nothing wrong with that.

 

I have to say I am surprised that the OP is having issues with his RX AND even more surprised that they want a 10-12 yr old BMW for added reliability. Im not sure if you are headed in the right direction if the goal is less issues with the car

 

Seems like out of the frying pan and into the fire IMO.

If he thinks his RX has issues, wait till he experiences a decade old BMW....

 

I disagree, what if one would like to buy a car without having to make payments after. Or one could put 5k down on any other car and make payments and owe more on a car than you have paid. Just because you live within your means doesn't make you a poser. Different strokes for different folks though I guess.

 

I didn't need to read all three pages of posts, but coudln't help but see if others were going to say what I wanted to say. And they did. If you are having issues and are tired of fixing your RX, it's only going to get worse with the BMW's. Is there a chance you just want some pizzazz with your driving experience? So often people with a Lexus are tempted to go to the other side for some sportiness, but quickly regret it once the maintenance starts hitting. Do your research and pay close attention to what everyone is saying here. Then make sure you are wanting the change for the reason you are stating.

 

I would recommend trying to get another Lexus. Maybe consider the LS430. Its one of the most reliable cars ever tested by JD Power and associates. They are are well built and far more reliable than anything German of that age range. Sounds biased but Im sure if you research issues you will find that its quite objective.

 

Yeh that's a poser. The truth is that you can't afford the car new or even slightly used so you go out and purchase a 12 year old car and call yourself balling. IMO

Yes, you can go purchase an CL600 but if anything goes wrong on that car. It's a done deal.
The abc on that car can running you 5k.
Stay in your lane. I wouldn't touch a benz or bmw or any luxury car without a warranty.Go get a nice slightly used Honda Accord with the works. Don't you want bluetooth/6 disk changer/nice leather. I honestly don't think it's a wise decision. If your going to go old/luxury at least get a lexus.

 

OP

I own and e38 (740i) and although it feels like a tank and I love the classic design, maintenance costs are high and unless you find a pristine example (ie: there is one around the corner 1 owner with 76k) stay away from them.
Electrical gremlins are always present.

I just sold my E46 (330ci) and it was much more reliable albeit suspension and power steering pump was replaced.

Honestly, I would recommend a more reliable GS300 for that price point.
IF dead set on a BMW I would recommend the latest year e46 you can afford or the rock solid e39 (530i or 540i). But either way be ready to pay for repairs and parts. Find an Indy!.
Also, Im a member of Bimmerforums and I buy and swap parts for my BMW's through the club. Also the club provides tremendous insight into diy repairs etc.