1989 BMW 3 Series 318 2 dr review from UK and Ireland
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I warped and cracked the front discs three times in 20,000 miles. BMW badges in front wheel centres charred from heat. Rear damper mounts wore out. Nothing else.
General comments?
For a car to be driven this hard and show such reliability is a compliment to BMW engineering. Braking system was uprated to 325i spec, OE vented discs/discs, to stop fading due to abuse. With the standard brakes, these cars have a 1.1G deceleration potential, stopping easily from 100 mph in 100 yards. With the uprated brakes it could do this far more times before fading. In the wet this car gripped like a leech, just get good tires. I recommend Goodyear Eagle NCT2 205/55 R15 for great wet/dry grip and very progressive at the limit.
Economical/reliable/great handling/low running costs.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8i |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Date of Entry | 14th December, 1999 |