Pretty much had decided on the 335i then on a whim test drove the clubman. Fun car and a lot cheaper, even loaded up. I do a lot of driving and some long road trips so I'm a little concerned about comfort for 6 to 7 hours stretches. I know this is a mini forum but any owners of 3 series here that can offer a comparision. thanks for the help.

 

I can't offer a comparison, but I do a lot of traveling in my R56 (same seats) and comfort is definitely not an issue on longer road trips.

 

I've driven both the newer R56 (not yet in the clubman) and 335...
I own the prev. gen. Mini (R53) and wife owns the prev. gen E46.

Both the older set of cars and newer cars are comfy for long stretches of road trips (4+hrs), but I'd imagine that the BMW would be a softer ride.

The question you have to ask yourself is how often you do long road trips and is the cost differnce worth it to you?

 

Yeah, the question is exactly as jakay says. Is the cost difference worth it to you?

I have a new Clubman and my wife is a E46 coupe. I would say that actual traveling, getting in and out, gas mileage, and carrying things would swing to the Clubman. Smooth ride and road noise would go to the BMW.

 

Wow, you are a true car guy!

They allow that in Texas?

Stan

 

I would go with the 335 if money was no object, that car rocks!

 

I love the 3-series, but for a lot less money I have to recommend the Clubman. All the money you save can go towards saving up for the BMW, next time.

 

If money were no object, I also say go for the 335i. That car is dead-sexy!

 

The clubman's handling will be a lot more fun around town. I'm sure the 335 will be quieter and smoother on the long hauls .

 

It depends on how you drive it.

 

A 335i with a stick and the sport package would be hard to beat. It's the longstanding benchmark for sport sedans, and is nearly universally praised by anyone who drives one for overall performance, handling, balance, etc.
While the Clubman is a great car (I'm trading my 325 wagon for one), it's no 335i. In this case, I think more is more. It's twice the price, and, in my opinion, worth every penny if you can afford it.

 

I have taken the 335i on several vegas runs as well as my Mini (its suppose to be about 6 hours, but usually close to 4 hours). No comparison that the 335i is better for that long haul. It is a freeway cruiser for sure. Now if you took all back road through winding canyons.....

 

Get the 135i instead..............

 

not a bad idea at all.

I am driving MINIs for 4 and half years now (including the Clubman) and drove the 335i for two days at the BWI driving school in SC. and I did anything one can do to a car ... the 335i is a GREAT car, best BMW value cannot compare to the Clubman maybe to the MINI GP.

But if you like small, go for the 135i

 

335i

 

 

Thanks for all the replies. I'm kind of leaning towards the 335i. Wouldn't say money isn't a factor, but w/whichever one it will be cash for me so it's not a huge focus. They were both fun to drive so I don't think I can go wrong w/either.

 

I would also consider the 135i, its basically a shorter, lighter 335i, I really like the look, but, some prefer the look of the 335.... I can only imagine the 135 is going to be a ton of fun too....

 

I drove 450 km the other day on rough roads and my back was broken

Clubman is a übercool city car, not a highway cruiser.

If I were you I would opt for the 335i.

 

135

 

As a former 3 series owner who went to a MCS, I would definately go with the 3 (even better would be the 135). There is not a day goes by that I don't miss my old 3...

 

The 335i, no contest. 300HP and 300 lb/ft of torque is amaaaaazing...