Vancouver Bound

Well I still don't have a 356, and with the way the economy is going I'm not sure when that is going to happen. However, after 5.5 years in the tropics, the family is headed to Vancouver for a fresh start.

I am starting a new company and will be enjoying being back in the land of long winding roads and beautiful scenery.

I'm not sure what I'm going to do for an initial ride, as my budget to start is just $15K (blowing the big amount on a new ride for my wife to take the kids around in, is her turn for something new(ish)). Given that, I'm looking at 2000-2004 BMW 3 series, just to have something to run around in. Anyone here have any insight on that vintage of 3 series?

The good news is that I'll be within 45 minutes of Intermeccanica, and hopefully once we get re-established I can look at undertaking a new build. At the least I can drop in and drool. I'm excited.

-Jeff

It's a great part of the world and I've traveled a lot. Always happy to come home. it seems to have the perfect blend of everything.

when are you coming? The IM BBQ is Jul 18th weekend.

I'm not to partial to BMWs although I really do like the old 2002 Ti. Could kick myself in the butt for not getting one of those. Instead got a Volvo 142 back in the 70's. What a POS.

Or better still, a MB 300SD or D with the 5 cylinder. IMO one of the best cars ever built. But, I'm partial to them...I probably will never get rid of mine.

The thing is these cars are appreciating while 2000 + cars are still in the depreciating cycle. If you have another dependable driver its a consideration.

Real good fellow up there is Mark Greenberg (spyderclub.com) Subie spyder - home build - spectacular car.

He also manages a couple of body shops....

angela

I close on my house in June 15th, so it sounds like I can possibly make the IM BBQ. That would be a great welcome to the area.

And there is a water cooled spyder/speedster expert in the area as well? It may just be heaven.

I certainly have not been able to find anyone to say a bad thing about the place, except that it can be overcast a lot. And I know this sounds funny, but I just had 1500+ days of sunshine, so I wouldn't mind a bit of moderate and varied weather...

And cars. Lots of cars.

I've been all over the road on cars. I looked at a 1991 M5, which was one of the handbuilt ones, and I love that E34 bodystyle. The Q ship Mercedes 400E is also a nice option from a similar era. I'm not really in to diesels, although the brand new 335d from BMW is getting raves, but out of my initial budget range until I get settled and get a handle on the new business.

The great news for a car person is you can literally buy almost anything in BC. I was even tempted by a Red/Black early nineties NSX for only C$32K.

Oh, and thrilled to be reminded that Canada has no federalization requirement for cars older than 15 years. So anything from 1994 or earlier is pretty much fair game. Those japanese imports of Euro q-ships are looking tempting too...

-Jeff

Welcome to beautiful B.C. Jeff. This is as good as it gets in Canada IMHO.
One of many great things about the N.W. is the number of motorheads and events that are almost year round. Regardless of your marque, Vancouver likely has a fraternity around it and that certainly includes Intermeccanica.
You'll want to make a stop at Henry's shop a priority as it just a fun place to visit and the upcoming 50th Anniversary IM weekend in mid July should not be missed.

50th Anniversary to boot? Well I did pick a good year!

Thanks for the warm welcome Rick.

-Jeff