1996 BMW 3 Series 328 coupe review from UK and Ireland
"Sadly affordable for boy racers too bolt plastic to now"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Cylinder head warped 60,000 miles - due to failed water pump leading too failed radiator - very expensive to repair.
Passenger door rubber seal wearing.
Diagnostics computer giving false readings such as water level low or coolant level low. 75,000 miles.
Glove box hinge snapped - difficult to find matching replacement part.
General comments?
Even though I have had my fair share of problems with this vehicle, I still love it, owned it close to four years now, and I still think the E36 is a great looking car, I can't think of another car in the £12 -14,000 price range I would rather have than a 3 series coupe.
Regular servicing should guarantee you a classy car for many years and miles.
I drive my cars hard so expect my fair share of repair bills. Friends have 3 series and have had no problems at all.
Handling is superb - but icy conditions can catch you out.
Performance isn't as good as I hoped 2.0L Astra GSI's can just keep up.
Comfort - it's a BMW a real driving pleasure... make sure if you have leather you have air conditioning.
Economy - I average 28.5 miles to the gallon and I like to take it through the rev range.
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Recommended Reviews:
  | The 316 can be thirsty due to its weight, but it's comfortable and nippy |
| Good to drive, but expensive, overrated and slow |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 328 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 50000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 100000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Fiesta |
| Date of Entry | 16th June, 2004 |