1998 BMW 3 Series 318ti Compact 1.9 petrol
Summary:
Brilliant!
Faults:
Camshaft sensor, traction control sensors, oil and coolant leak, replaced thermostat, kept up with oil changes so the engine seems OK.
Cosmetically the exterior of the car has seen better days, but it is over 20 years old now. Interior is in very good condition however.
General Comments:
A fun little car to drive, the Compact 3 series is a great first BMW. Looks great in red with original alloys. Last of the older shape I believe before the newer model came along in late 1998. Though I think they made this Compact model well into the year 2000 with the older shape.
1.9 petrol with the auto box has a nice turn of speed in sport mode. Only does 32 mpg on average though, not great today.
Cabin is nice and refined, quality materials have stood the test of time. Very solid feel.
Pretty good to drive.
Not worth a heck of a lot (£1000 - £1500?) and I don't think this particular model will become a classic or rise significantly in value any time soon.
Generally been a great car if a little expensive to run, as per BMW, but I'll probably hang onto it as a second car despite its age, as it still runs well.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 16th March, 2023
4th Jun 2023, 00:38
I owned the model after, a 316ti 1.8 manual. I still see a lot of the older body E36 ones around, used as daily drivers, so they have proven quite durable. When I got my current car serviced at an independent mechanic, I got the automatic version of my E46 hatch as a loaner, I was actually quite surprised that even with the 1.8 engine and around 116 bhp, the car was pretty brisk, didn't feel sluggish. If your car's still in good shape, just keep it. It was clearly built well, and except for the odd issues (I also had to replace a cam angle sensor on my previous hatch - pain in the neck to get to), it's just normal maintenance expenses. All the best.