1988 BMW 3 Series Touring 2.5 petrol, 6 cylinder from UK and Ireland

Summary:

A wolf in sheep's clothing

Faults:

Leak from power steering pump reservoir.

Front seat hydraulics broke - MOT fail.

Water pump leaking at 182000 miles.

General Comments:

New jubilee clip fixed power steering leak.

2nd hand seats fitted - £100 for a pair. Seats are very uncomfortable - too wide & not enough support.

Water pump cost £25, but is a nightmare to fit - everything in the engine bay is in the way - will take the next one to a garage.

Engine is fantastic - as an ex-biker I wanted some cheap performance - the car cost £900 and with 172hp does the job nicely. Unfortunately the handling is typical rear wheel drive - you can slide the back so easily it's ridiculous, especially in the wet.

Very easy and relaxing to drive if you take your time, will bite you if you push too hard.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st October, 2003

7th Feb 2005, 15:13

I can relate to your last comment about the handling - the combination of a greasy road, a little too much right foot and some very unforgiving trees signalled the end of my pride and joy.

My Mini has taken the same bend much, much quicker, so I suppose it was too much to expect the Bimmer to be as chuckable.

You live and learn.

1988 BMW 3 Series 325 2.7 super ETA from North America

Summary:

Great handling, timeless design, however pricey upkeep

Faults:

Mass air sensor failed causing car to stall when it was given gas. New sensor cost $200.

Exhaust straps all corroded through. New part coat $50 without labor.

Thermometer works sporadically.

Power locks have ceased functioning in drivers side door.

Brake lining light comes on due to wire wearing through.

Sunroof needs extra help closing sometimes.

General Comments:

Car handles very well in good condition. Would not recommend a slush-box (transmission) to anyone interested in performance. Anyone driving this car in the winter needs to be wary, can be rather tricky, snow tires are a must. Cost of parts demonstrates some clear price gouging. Car is styled in a manner that is timeless.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 17th August, 2003

1988 BMW 3 Series 318i e30 4 door 1.8 petrol from Greece

Summary:

A car that can last a lifetime and makes you really happy owning it

Faults:

At about 50000 kilometers there was a major oil leak from the engine.

At about 60000 kilometers the radiator had a leak and was replaced.

General Comments:

This car is quick enough for pleasant and safe trips. However, when the car is fully loaded, the engine must be highly raved for a safe pass.

The cabin is roomy for the driver and the co-driver, but the rear seat is for two, not very tall people.

Handling is not top, especially with used tyres, but if you know how to drive a rear wheel drive car, then it is enjoyable and fun.

The oil carter is very low (M40 engine) and there is a lot of chance to hit it somewhere.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th March, 2003

24th May 2007, 15:09

I had a 318 3 door on an F plate and it cost me more than any other car I've owned. The rear subframe bushes tend to go on all E30 models and you need specialist tools to replace them. £600 from a non franchised BMW garage. BMW themselves wanted £900 to do the job.

No it won't leave you stranded, but to keep it running smoothly you need a second mortgage.

1988 BMW 3 Series 325i 2.5 from UK and Ireland

Faults:

Rust on front and rear wings.

General Comments:

A real nippy drive that has to be experienced.

A bit cramped inside for a 6' driver and the back seats are close for adults.

Not much space for an estate car.

Don't be put off though - it is a great car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 3rd January, 2003

1988 BMW 3 Series 325ic 1.68 from North America

Summary:

This car is a reason to drive!

Faults:

Any repairs will be quite expensive.

Although the air conditioner is in working order, the car will overheat if the air conditioner is used in hot weather. Also, the car will overheat while sitting idle for a long period (i.e. drive-through line). It does not perform well in any type of precipitation.

General Comments:

I love this car! It handles like a dream and is especially fun for long-distance trips.

The features available in this car are truly amazing. Even buying it at 12 years of age, the computer still works beautifully.

Has a ton of get-up-and-go! Sometimes this can be a problem as I've had several tickets in my two years of ownership.

My BMW has the most comfortable seats, with many adjustment levels. They are in mint condition. The leather has worn exceptionally well.

Although the car was purchased through an extremely unethical dealer, and there was no way to contact a previous owner, it has been very reliable. The only maintenance it receives now is a regular oil change every 3,000 miles.

This convertible has the nicest top compartment. Although mine is a manual top, I am able to put the top up or down alone with no problem.

This car combines beauty, performance and luxury - a reason to truly love a car.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 2nd December, 2002