1999 BMW 3 Series 323ci Coupe 2.5
Summary:
One of the best car makers
Faults:
- Airbag light came on. Very common issue with 3 Series, and this is due to the seat sensor under the passenger's seat.
- Central locking would play up sometimes.
- Wheel bearing was due for a change just after 100k.
- Shock bushes.
General Comments:
I have had 7 BMW's so far, and my overall impression is that they are excellent cars. They were all 3 series, and my current 323ci is the most loved, due to being a manual.
Yes, you do have some usual maintenance, and it stands for any car, and I can't deny they that they are expensive, but it's the driving comfort and handling that pays for it.
Inline 6 cylinder 323ci manual 2 door coupe in manual was one of the best cars I have owned. Great handling, decent fuel economy for a 2.5 litre engine, lots of power and excellent sitting comfort with memory seats.
The interior is great, and there's enough leg room at the rear, but the front is quite roomy.
If you are thinking of getting a 323ci, I would strongly recommend these e46 models. I owned a 318i of the same year; it was a very reliable car as well, but I thought it didn't have enough power to cope up with NZ roads.
Also compared to the e36 325i, I personally think the 323ci is much more refined, and much more of a pleasure to drive.
Engine and transmissions are bullet proof. When you buy these cars, make sure you get the service history. If you have full service history like mine, you have nothing to worry about.
For a 99 car, it has everything you can ever ask for.
- Electric seats with many comfy features even new cars don't have.
- Memory seats for 3 people.
- Cruise control.
And lots of little detailed things, which you will appreciate as you discover while driving.
I strongly suggest - keep it factory and keep it well serviced, and you can't go wrong with them.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 18th May, 2011
20th May 2011, 06:32
Hey mate, are a 330i or 330d way better than a 323ci? I always wanted to get a 3 liter version one, but was little worried about fuel consumption and maintenance.
21st May 2011, 03:49
The 2.5 litre in your 323Ci is from the same family, so maintenance issues will be similar to the 330i.
As for economy, the 330d is better than the 330i, and I have always found the spread of low to mid range torque intoxicating. The only possible downsides are the slight rattling at idle, and the lack of the straight six bark when revved.
26th May 2011, 18:04
I agree. Diesel wouldn't be my first choice, but I would take 330ci any day over a 323ci. But I found the 323ci is very fuel efficient and cheaper insurance compared to a 330ci. Does quite well for NZ's hilly roads, but a bit more power is always nice :)
30th May 2011, 01:51
Actually, I would rate the 330d above the 330i, based on personal experience with both.
The 330d lacks little, if anything, in performance as compared to the 330i and is much cheaper to run. The low and mid range punch has to be felt to be believed and it revs out nicely to licence losing speeds too.
19th May 2011, 03:08
The 323i/ci has a good engine and drivetrain, but wait till you sample the 330i or 330d!