Driving a BMW is a little bit like learning all over again. By that I don’t mean that they are completely wildly different to every other car on the market – just that to me their drive and balance is a deliciously different experience to the other more generic cars on the market. I find that German cars in particular are worth paying extra for, as they drive beautifully whilst still retaining that attitude and drive that they are so renowned for.
Of course, knowing that you personally like BMWs doesn’t help you much in the car buying process. Sure, it may suggest an area of the market to start looking in, but it doesn’t make it any clearer whether you would be best suited to a smart little hatchback or a huge SUV. Would you prefer a convertible or a saloon? What sized wheels do you want, how much pull do you need. These, unfortunately, are the things that are inspired by your passion, but have to be followed up with plain old fashioned research.
Part of that research needs to be taking a few cars out for a test drive. This shouldn’t be reserved for your favourite model – you should take a selection out of differing brands so that you know exactly when thing to look out for and just what sort of car you prefer. This is the same whether you intend on buying a new or a used BMW – all cars need to be tested regardless of whether they are fresh off the production line!
To test drive a BMW, first do the obvious – book in at your local forecourt for a time, or walk in a try your luck to see if they can take you out in it there and then. As long as you are testing a new or used car from a dealership you should be insured, but always check your insurance if testing a private car – after all, the regulations for buying and selling in their market are pretty much nonexistent. They will also want to see your licence in order to drive it – so make sure you have it on you or it will be a wasted trip!
When you get in the BMW and start driving, you have to pay attention to plenty of things – especially so if you are trying out a used BMW not a new one. Pay attention to the breaks and suspension, noting any bumps and clonking noises, as well as how easily it changes gear. Any little annoying things you notice could reveal some terribly problems underneath, so don’t ignore them so as not to make a fuss.
BMWs feel different to other cars, in my humble opinion, so make sure to test out a few just to make sure you have a frame of reference. Here you want to be paying attention to personal likes and preferences – do you like light steering, or do you prefer a more determined wiggle? Either way could make a difference to whether you love your new car – or hate it!
Author Resource:
Pete J Ridgard is a writer and a car enthusiast. He currently writes for the automotive industry. Here he discusses http://www.sytner.co.uk/bmw/used-cars.aspx Used BMW cars.