Z3 1.9 vs. 2.8

[stjobs]

I hear widely varying opinions on the power levels of the Z3 1.9 and 2.8i. I'm looking at a Montreal Blue 1.9 with tan top, loaded, 5 speed, alloys, active stability control, traction control, heated seats (!) and has 18,416 miles (!!). The other choice is an Atlantic Blue 2.8i with just under 60,000 miles. It has the premium package and is also a 5 speed. The thing is, the 1.9 is almost indistinguishable from a brand new car. Only a small scratch on a few of the wheels and some tiny abrasions in the paint keep it from looking showroom clean. The interior is perfect except for minor wear on the leather of the steering wheel. Both have tan interior. Both drive great. However, the 2.8 is not in mint condition. There are an expected amount of scratches in the paint for a 5 year old car, there is moderate wear on the driver's side leather, and some scratches in the plastic console parts, etc. Both owners are asking for similar prices, but the Atlantic Blue 2.8i has more leeway in terms of accepting a lower offer... which would you rather have, and why? In favor of the 1.9 is its condition and mileage, but the 2.8 has the larger engine, obviously.

Thanks,
stjobs

[stjobs]

Oh yeah, both are '97s.

stjobs

[///M Roadster]

There's a big Z3 community at bimmerforums.com if you're interested in getting more bites on this thread.

Just an FYI

[Ty Vil]

Buy the 2.8. The 1.9 is grossly underpowered and you won't be happy with it. i drove both before I got my car (I was considering a Z3 or an M3) and was really dissapointed in the 1.9. Read some of the reviews online you'll find they all say the 1.9 was too weak for the car.