1991 BMW 318i ??

Posted by: Deane F on 02 October 2005

Hello all

A very dear friend of mine is thinking of purchasing a 1991 BMW 318, 5-speed, NZ new, 114,000kms, full BMW service history.

Any contraindicators?

She has her heart set on it methinks. I've looked on the net a bit but I thought to post here about it in case somebody has personally had bad experiences with one.

Cheers
Deane

Posted on: 02 October 2005 by Paul Hutchings

I always got the impression they're the perfect car - German, reliable, cheap to buy and run these days, a bit of a "buy sensibly and you won't go wrong" job?

Posted on: 02 October 2005 by HTK

A bit of a minor classic. If it's a good one. The straight 6 (even in 320 guise) takes it onto an altogether different level buit the 4 pots are not shabby at all.

Condition and history count far more than miles. Assuming the price is right. I assume this is the E36 (now three generations old). A very well balanced and entertaining drive. they got a bit lardy after that (well, the cooking ones at any rate).

Cheers

Posted on: 02 October 2005 by Diode100

If it's got a genuine full BMW serice history, ie from BMW dealers, and there is a valid reason for it being for sale, it should be fine. BMW are notorious for doing as much work as they think needs done during a service, whether the owner agrees or not, so it should have been very well maintained.

Posted on: 02 October 2005 by andy c

Ditto the FSH.

Like mercedes these motors are designed engine wise to go on much higher than the mileage you list.

Provided you double check the FSH you should be fine. Not owned a BMW myself, although family and friends have, and of similar vintage etc, and the only probs were created by skimping on servicing etc..

Posted on: 02 October 2005 by Deane F

Thanks guys. I'll pass these comments on to her.