1989 BMW 3 Series 318i review from Australia and New Zealand
"Incredible value and alround performance"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The car had not been looked after when I purchased it for my daughter. I spent around $1000 replacing noisy valve lifters, worn brakes and electric fan. The radiator was 70% full of sand (apparently from the cast engine block).
Some electric switches do not always work. The car is always left outside. I think it has not been garaged for many years by previous owners. Even so, the paint work is very good and there is no noticeable rust.
General comments?
A little care has gone a long way with this car. The performance has increased since the valve lifters were replaced. It is great to drive around town and is solid as a brick. Driver vision is terrific and my daugther has gained her drivers license in it then gone on to become a confident driver.
The car can be driven in a nippy or sedate way in traffic. I generally drive it hard and it never complains.
Just another example of the fabulous BMW heritage.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | petrol Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 196000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 204000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Renault Fuego |
| Date of Entry | 20th June, 2005 |