1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2.8

Summary:

Fast, stick to the road, but be sure to buy one in a good shape

Faults:

The wipers motor broke two times and worth 300$. The second time was on the warranty.

The rack and pinion broke at 180 000 km (1200$).

Sadly most of my problems were linked with the fact that the car was wrecked 3 times (3 different owners).

Few problems with braking lights. They don't want to work well.

The screen of the onboard computer is almost unreadable.

General Comments:

Very very fun to drive.

Fast.

Not cheap to run, but economical on gas on the highway. 9.5l/100km.

Stick to the road better than many sports cars.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th April, 2008

1997 BMW 3 Series 328ci 2.8 liter inline 6

Summary:

Try one, you'll like it!!

Faults:

Radiator neck disintegrated about 3 weeks after purchase. Purchased an OEM radiator, new water pump, new belts & hoses on the WWW & installed myself for under $240 delivered.

Lights in dashboard / radio / other displays a little erratic until I swapped them out with new.

Auto top jammed and needed a "computer" reset.

General Comments:

I had been looking for a convertible, and was strong on a Toyota, since have owned several, which have given me very, very little trouble.

At a dealer who had an older Toyota, I saw several BMW convertibles. Took an OLD 318ic out for a lark; it was slow, but only convertible I'd ever driven with no cowl shake. Took out a 330ci with 5speed transmission.

--- Fell in love ---

So FAST, so solid.

Eventually bought my 328 convertible privately.

Great handling, quick car, wonderful road feel; you are connected, not just a semi active passenger in a 328. An overall joy to own!!!

This car is a good choice if you don't have money to burn or toss-away to a $tealer, and can do some minor maintenance.

The car is virtually modular, parts are generally easy to get to, easy to replace, and surprisingly inexpensive.

On other hand, if you can't handle a wrench or screwdriver - stay away! Or expect a $3,000 per year maintenance bill - not counting tires/brakes.

Try one, you'll like it!!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 15th March, 2008

17th Oct 2009, 18:09

--- Same Poster - 2 years later --

"It's always something"

This car appears to be designed to need service.

A/C - needed Freon

Headlights flickering - Remove & clean brushes & all contacts in alternator.

Gas gauge stuck on EMPTY - Fuel level sender bad - Replace combination *fuel pump* & sender.

Overheating - Thermostat stuck closed.

26th May 2011, 10:44

I have a question. Is this car worth buying at all? I want to know if the maintenance is going to be a hassle or not.

I'm thinking about purchasing one so let me know please.

Thanks.

1997 BMW 3 Series 318i 1.9

Summary:

Nice car, fun to drive

Faults:

Driver's seat wear.

Rear shock.

Stereo display dim

Gas cap lock

Overall nothing major - has been reliable.

General Comments:

Very solid car, fun to drive.

Handles incredibly well, decent acceleration considering the 4 cylinde engine. Good fuel economy as well.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th January, 2008

1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2.8 liter

Faults:

Nothing serious.

General Comments:

This has been a great little car. I purchased it with 127,000 miles for $5200. It is a blast to drive, the motor has awesome highway power. It rarely needs to downshift from 4th to 3rd on the highway, even if going up a long hill. The transmission has a sport mode as well as a manual more in which you can shift yourself if you so desire. The exterior is stylish and definitely a headturner. The interior is like an airplane, lots of small buttons all illuminated with a red glow at night. The seats are comfortable and easily adjustable, as well as heated. I love this car, although it's for sale on ebay and I'll be getting rid of it in a few days. It now has 146k on it, and has been relatively problem free. I would recommend avoiding the BMW dealer, as they are very expensive and like to do more work than necessary!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 24th March, 2007