Originally Posted by jetmechG550

Neither - get a 3 series bimmer! Audi had reliability problems that were just getting worked out back then. It's going to cost you more in maintenance. The IS 300 from the time you are looking at was still pretty much a Toyota Alteeza. It's come a long way but, IMO, the older IS's were nothing special. Check roadfly out and read the forums. I was looking at the 02 IS 300's back when I bought my 02 325. Once I went and drove the BMW, it was a no brainer, especially with the maintenance package.