1996 BMW 3 Series 328i review from North America

Replaced original 1-3 cyl. O2 sensor at 126,000 miles.

Break light circuit problem randomly shows on computer. Plan to replace break light switch to solve problem.

Radio display lost its back lighting so you have to put light on it if you need to see it.

After restoring and driving my 1966 mustang for four years I was in the market for a modern car. I paid 4000$ for this two owner car from a private seller. The asking price was 5000$ and I told him that I would pay 4000$ and he quickly showed me the palm of his hand, I had the title within 15 minutes of seeing the car!

I have been nothing but impressed with this car. I worked at Enterprise car rental for 2 years driving the complete line of brand new cars and the 125,000 mile, 10 year old car out performs most all the cars in the fleet.

The road feel of any BMW is very unique. The car has a heavy, responsive, and secure feeling about it. Body roll is a bit more than a sports car in the stock configuration, but then again this is not an "is" or an "M" so I am satisfied. Overall the handling is excellent for a 4 door car under 10,000$. I just got back from a 700 mile trip and averaged 30 mpg with a/c on doing 80 mph. Set the cruise, direct the steering, relax and let the bimmer do the rest, great road car!

The acceleration and deceleration is also just as impressive. I think it would give my old mustang a good straight line run, and for sure stop better! The ABS system is more effective than you find in other cars. It responds quicker and is less intrusive. The pulse is a lot more fluid like than the slow clatter of other makes. This car will make you feel nice consistent g's from 0-100 mph.

For the interior the rear foot room is tight for adults, but I am 6'3" so I usually have the front seat at the extent of its range and rarely have passengers anyway. The A/C takes a while before it cools off the cab, but then the climate control can take over and works flawlessly. The 6 disc changer in the trunk is bragging rights, but is inconvenient. The stereo has a nice clear sound with multiple speakers, but lacks the low end power as with most factory units. The one-touch windows are very handy AND the windows and sun-roof can be closed with the key from the outside.

The on board computer is a great addition. Being an engineer I was always figuring consumption, range, ETA, avg. speed and now its all done for me. It also has nice functions like a code lock-out for the ignition that can be set, as well as an audible beep you pass a self set speed. It will tell you if you have exterior light failure or low fluids.

Parts for BMWs are just a bit more than the domestics, but I believe the quality is better. As for maintenance I recommend investing in a code reading tool and finding DIY pages on-line to avoid the high price of the dealers.