1985 BMW 3 Series 318i review from North America
"Outstanding in every way, especially for city driving."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The catalytic converter was replaced twice, in the 7th and 11th years of ownership.
The clutch needed replacing in the 7th year. Showed no problem since.
Other than that, just the usual seasonal maintenance and wear and tear.
General comments?
This was the perfect car for me. It is super responsive and a perfect match to my own quick reflexes.
I have been driving this car for over 20 years, 98% of the time in city traffic, and I am absolutely delighted with its size, comfort and performance.
The body paint quality is outstanding as, in spite of our long and rough Canadian winters, it still shows as practically new, with just a bit of rust under the rear wheel wells.
Overall, it is a very forgiving and resilient model, as I have not been giving it much tender loving care over all these years.
It only started requiring heavier repairs two years ago, after 18 years of great reliability.
Recommended Reviews:
  | 1985 - 3 Series E eta 2.7 liter M20 Great little cruiser |
| A disappointing foray into the European auto market |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1985 |
| First year of ownership | 1986 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8L Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 35 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 192000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Datsun B210 |
| Date of Entry | 18th September, 2005 |