1998 BMW 3 Series 328 CI M-Tech review from Switzerland
"Nice car - but be careful in deep snow :-)"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
- Lambda-Sondd produced errors (replaced under warranty).
- Windscreen wiper electrics and motor (replaced by warranty).
- Damper shield of the left exhaust went loose (when driving in snow). Fixed by dealer at Swiss $ 0.--
General comments?
Generally, this car is very reliable. There are some special technical things you have to get used to.
Everything is well built and solid.
Especially here in Switzerland, the M-Tech package (especially with the lowered down suspension) is not the best in snow - I lost an exhaust-shield.
Servicing is less expensive than with French cars here in Switzerland (lucky us!). In Australia and in America this seems to be "slightly" different.
The list price is high, but have a look at it after 200'000 KM... A BMW you still can sell... Try this with a Renault or a Fiat. And calculate what you've spent on a French car meanwhile. I really was surprised.
The 5-Gear automatic is OK, especially in town. You almost do not get the difference between a hand-shifted and an automatic looking to performance. Both cars are fast enough.
Overall petrol consumption is OK (about 9l Super-PLUS).
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.8L petrol Semi-Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 50000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 100000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Renault Laguna |
| Date of Entry | 26th November, 2001 |