Car Talk - Non S2000 General Motoring and Non S2000 Car Talk

BMW 123D Coupe/Convertible

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Old May 3, 2012 | 07:14 AM
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Default BMW 123D Coupe/Convertible

The M-sport version? I have read many reviews and there's a lot of people who say the M-sport suspension is far too harsh and should be driven before committing as it may not be to everyones taste. Considering the S2000 suspension is fairly hard anyway, would the M-sport be even harder or would it be about the same or softer? Obviously when the time comes, a test drive will be in order but I was wondering if anyone had any 1st hand experience?

TIA
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Old May 3, 2012 | 10:04 AM
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Originally Posted by Toully
The M-sport version? I have read many reviews and there's a lot of people who say the M-sport suspension is far too harsh and should be driven before committing as it may not be to everyones taste. Considering the S2000 suspension is fairly hard anyway, would the M-sport be even harder or would it be about the same or softer? Obviously when the time comes, a test drive will be in order but I was wondering if anyone had any 1st hand experience?

TIA
When I drove a 123d M Sport I thought it was softer than an S2000 .... and FWIW I have an M Sport 330d coupe and that is softer than my S2000 ....
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Old May 3, 2012 | 12:14 PM
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Originally Posted by John57
Originally Posted by Toully' timestamp='1336058072' post='21665868
The M-sport version? I have read many reviews and there's a lot of people who say the M-sport suspension is far too harsh and should be driven before committing as it may not be to everyones taste. Considering the S2000 suspension is fairly hard anyway, would the M-sport be even harder or would it be about the same or softer? Obviously when the time comes, a test drive will be in order but I was wondering if anyone had any 1st hand experience?

TIA
When I drove a 123d M Sport I thought it was softer than an S2000 .... and FWIW I have an M Sport 330d coupe and that is softer than my S2000 ....

Thats usefull, thanks for that. Looks like I will stick with the M-sport then!
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Old May 3, 2012 | 01:59 PM
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I've driven a couple of 120d hatches with the M Sport suspension and never noticed them being harsh.....
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Old May 4, 2012 | 12:29 AM
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I've driven a 123d M Sport. Didn't think it was harsh. Rather liked the ride.
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Old May 4, 2012 | 12:50 AM
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Cheers guys, that's what I was hoping to hear.

Steve
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Old May 4, 2012 | 01:08 AM
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Really depends on the wheels. The bigger wheels the harsher the ride. I have the 17" wheels with the run flats. It's harsh compared to the SE, but the SE is a bit too saggy if you like sports cars. The tyres make a difference as well. The standard RE050 RF's are a bit harsher than the Goodyears I replaced them with, but they're not lasting as long. 18's are a bit harsher, but ok, the 19's are a step too far unless it's a genuine M car.

It'll never ride like a Jaaaaag though. But neither are you setting sail like a Merc, or having your spine compressed like an S-Line Audi.
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Old May 4, 2012 | 01:51 AM
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That's kinda what I thought was the case! Useful info. I always associate big wheels with stupidity. Big wheels especially on a converted bodyshell is close to idiocy.

Are you sure you's want a Diesel convertible though? Smell of your own farts and all that...
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Old May 4, 2012 | 04:19 AM
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I have sort of resigned myself to a diesel. The missus is from Northern Ireland and to go back for holidays etc in a petrol car is expensive whereas the BM will do it on less than a tank. Plus I like the idea of cheaper RFL and I am getting to be an old git! The S is becoming too small. Due to a change in personal circumstances, I need to think about a 4-seater with a boot that can take more than a travel bag! I love the S but needs must! Having said that, it ain't going just yet, just putting the feelers out as to what to get. I like the 3 series but they are too pricey for the age I want and I am not convinced it will fit it my garage. The 123D seems to tick the boxes for me.
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Old May 4, 2012 | 04:57 AM
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Why not look at the F20, its a county mile ahead of the last iteration.
You can be in a 118d Sport one for <£22k - but the small new turbo petrols are far more economical to run unless you do over 12k a year.
On a PCP with 3k down, over three years its probably £300 a month.... BMW are still running 4.9% APR too.

The older 1er will depreciate more heavily now the F20 is becoming so successful.
Worth factoring that in if you think used still makes more sense, often it doesnt
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