Looking to by an E36 need help.

[Aint No Prophet]

I am looking to buy an E36. I can't decide which model I want and was hoping someone could help me decide, or at least give me enough information about the models to help me.

A few stipulations: I would rather not have a 4 cylinder. I would rather not have a coupe. It would be best if it were only about $12K - $15K.

Some positives and negatives about the models would help futher my research and decision making efforts.

I am pretty convinced I want a BMW. I have always liked their design and quality.

Also, if anyone wants to convince me on buying something other than an E36 that would be appreciated. As long as we meet my current stipulations.

I have never owned a BMW before. I currently drive a '01 Cavalier and have been so happy that it has depreciated so much so quickly. Especially, the fact that I have put more money than needed into it for maintaince. I really wish I could keep this car but I am concerned about it not lasting much longer. If anyone is looking to purchase a Cavalier think twice, hell think six or seven times.

Anyway, any information, opinions, or slander would be much appreciated.

--jC

 

[BMWdude]

Well, you will definetly want a 328i if you can find one for the right price, if not than the 325i will be your next choice (or if you want a newer car than also consider the 323is as the 325i was last produced in '95 I believe). You are right about staying away from the 4 cylinder 318 models. In general, you shouldn't have too many problems with an E36 (If it's been properly taken care of) as the previous owner would have taken care of all major problems under warranty. What else can I say.....you will really enjoy the drive, it's day and night difference from a cavalier.

Good luck!

 

[manuel]

get a 328is. you could also get an e30 m3...

 

[Kirby]

Your price range should put you in the '96 - '98 models. Here's a list of things to look for. I found this somewhere on the net. Not all things happen to all cars. My E36 had the water pump replaced, a slight chip on a tweeter ring, very slight rattle in the sunroof, squeaky clutch pedal. The clutch pedal bushing can be a DIY replacement job.

E36 - 325 things to watch

Driveline:

- Water pump will need replacement because of the plastic impeller thru '96 (M50)
- Radiator - look for cracks in the plastic neck
- Defective ignition coils in some of the '91 and '92.
- Drive belt tensioner
- Profile gasket on the earlier 318's (M42)
- cracks in plastic thermostat cover (M50)
- sticking thermostats (M50)
- Manual transmission (ZF model) pops out of 1st or 2nd gear under load

Suspension:

- Outer ball joints go bad
- Rear shock mounts go bad

Interior:

- Window switches
- Door panels seperate because of insufficient glueing
- Dashboard vinyl can seperate over the center vent
- Seat heater elements break
- Glove boxes misaligned - especially earlier models
- chipping trim around the tweeters in the front door panels
- sunroof rattle

Exterior:
- Plastic headlight covers get foggy over time

Misc:
- brake light switch
- squeaky clutch pedal bushing

 

[Aint No Prophet]

Thanks a bunch every one. We are definately getting somewhere.

One quick thing you can help me clear up...I have been doing lots of research and maybe it is just because I read something wrong but, how do the model numbers of the cars reflect the engine sizes? I mean a 325 is a 2.5L 6, the 328 is a 2.8L 6, but isn't the 323 a 2.5L 6 or am I wrong here.

I am pretty sure unless I get a real good deal on a 325 I will probably pass on that because I would like to have a newer car than a '95. So, that would leave me to a 323i or a 328i. An, M3 would be cool, but I really don't think I want a coupe and they didn't make the sedans until '98 or '99, I think.

So, my next question would be...which would be better a 323i or a 328i assuming they were both reasonably priced.

Oh, and it would be greatly appreciated if someone could help me out with prices. What are avg/good deals/high prices on a '96 - '98 E36?

Thanks again everyone, you've been a big help so far.

 

[VANCE]

yes the 323 is a 2.5l. though it has less torque.

hich would be better a 323i or a 328i assuming they were both reasonably priced.

328 for sure b/c its more powerful.

An, M3 would be cool, but I really don't think I want a coupe and they didn't make the sedans until '98 or '99, I think.

1997 was the first year.

and it would be greatly appreciated if someone could help me out with prices. What are avg/good deals/high prices on a '96 - '98 E36?

about dependson the model but anywhere from prolly $8000+