318s
Deja vu. Wasn't this asked a week ago? Well, again, 318s are good cars if not slightly underpowered. The Ti has the M44 engine which produces 138 hp in a car that is lighter than your typical e36 (factory designation for 3 series 92-99 body). In all Bimmers of that generation some things to watch out for are bad radiators, fans and water pumps. Also, with an automatic, make sure it has been maintained well. BMW came up with the grand idea of calling the tranny fluid "lifetime" fluid and the dealers didn't change the stuff regularly, if at all, when serviced. The Ti has a less advanced rear suspension sourced from the previous generation of 3ers but that doesn't really detract from the fun of the car.
See if a detailed maintenance history is available showing when the regular maintenance was done and what has been replaced. This is an older car and will need work. Get a Bentley Manual and a Peake scan tool to take care of the little things. Find a good independent BMW guy for the big.
If you are looking for a speed demon, that car will need a super/turbocharger. If you are looking for excellent handling, good craftsmanship, and longevity you'll be happy.
Any specific Q's PM me
Matt
former 85 318i (285,000 miles)
current 96 318iC (175,000 miles)
Deja vu. Wasn't this asked a week ago? Well, again, 318s are good cars if not slightly underpowered. The Ti has the M44 engine which produces 138 hp in a car that is lighter than your typical e36 (factory designation for 3 series 92-99 body). In all Bimmers of that generation some things to watch out for are bad radiators, fans and water pumps. Also, with an automatic, make sure it has been maintained well. BMW came up with the grand idea of calling the tranny fluid "lifetime" fluid and the dealers didn't change the stuff regularly, if at all, when serviced. The Ti has a less advanced rear suspension sourced from the previous generation of 3ers but that doesn't really detract from the fun of the car.
See if a detailed maintenance history is available showing when the regular maintenance was done and what has been replaced. This is an older car and will need work. Get a Bentley Manual and a Peake scan tool to take care of the little things. Find a good independent BMW guy for the big.
If you are looking for a speed demon, that car will need a super/turbocharger. If you are looking for excellent handling, good craftsmanship, and longevity you'll be happy.
Any specific Q's PM me
Matt
former 85 318i (285,000 miles)
current 96 318iC (175,000 miles)
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