1) Most important question first: red car, stripes, fierce body-kit with black rims, why?
I think the F30 3-Series looks really good in red, but I didn’t want the car to look like an Ang Koo (Chinese “Red Tortoise” pastry), so I added the M-Performance accessories and had the rims sprayed black. I’m going through a mid-life crisis.
2) Do you often get “challenged” on the road by other racy-looking cars?
I can’t be bothered really, it’s for my own pleasure, not theirs. I have received more than a few thumbs-up from fellow BMW owners, but my other friends who owns boring but sensible cars just shook their heads when they saw the car.
3) What was your parents’ reaction when they first saw your red car?
“Is that your new car? Nice colour, looks like a sports car, but why the sticker only on one side?” I guess I can’t please everyone.
4) What car did you own before this?
I bought a Lexus IS250 in 2007 when I was based abroad. I preferred the IS250’s sleeker styling and luxurious interior over the E90 3-Series, but it was a bit tight inside, or maybe I’m just big. Had a great ownership experience though.
5) Having worked and even owned a car abroad, do you think cars in Malaysia are overpriced?
Very much so, but where I was based, I paid more than double for what I’m paying now for a liter of petrol, plus a hefty rental for a parking space at my condo.
6) What other cars did you consider before deciding on the 328i?
The Mercedes C-Class, but the new one hadn’t arrived (middle of 2013). I also looked at the Audi A4 but the B8 is quite old. I didn’t want to get another Lexus, Infiniti didn’t have the Q50 then. BMW had just launched the 328i M-Sport, I was impressed with its performance when I test drove it, so it wasn’t a difficult choice.
7) Has the BMW been the “ultimate driving machine” it promised to be?
It’s close, but the suspension is a bit soft when cornering hard. It does feel more like a rear wheel driven car compared to the IS250, and much, much faster. For my everyday drive to office and back, it’s comfortable enough even though I can’t stand the potholes around KL.
8) Anything broke? Any complaints about the car?
It’s coming to two years now, maybe I’m lucky but I haven’t had to send it for fixing apart from normal service. However, one thing I would complain about is the engine clatter during cold starts, it sounds more like a diesel than a petrol engine.
9) Would you buy another BMW? If yes, which one? If no, what would you rather have?
Based on my experience so far, I would consider buying another BMW though there are many nice cars to choose from these days. But if it’s another BMW and I happen to strike lottery, it must be the M4.
10) Sorry, but back to the stickers. Would you buy another car and paste stickers on it again? Please don’t…Yes, why not, especially if it’s a Ford Mustang, but not if it’s an Audi. Told you I have good taste.
(Can’t wait to share with us your own experience? Drop us an e-mail and we’ll work something out!)