1997 BMW 3 Series 323i SE 2.5

Summary:

A very solid performance vehicle

General Comments:

Though we have only owned the car for a few month's, we are very impressed by the car's performance and comfort levels. The engine is lively if pushed, but can be quite thirsty.

As our family car, the car is quite roomy in the rear for the two kid's, in the front, the leg room is brilliant, though the gearbox tunnel does infringe towards the clutch pedal slightly.

The boot space is not as big as we would like, but overall a very solidly built car, with lots of specification.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 6th April, 2004

16th Dec 2009, 18:13

I've had a 323i for the last few years and found it to be easily the worst car I've ever owned. To drive, it's fantastic: comfortable, quiet, plenty of performance and nice handling. When it works, that is.

My BMW lasts on average four or five months between lengthy stays in the garage for a never-ending string of expensive repairs. In the last three years I've had problems with the brakes, suspension, engine, gearbox, alarm, electric windows, heating, engine cooling, engine management, steering and miscellaneous electrics. More than once in all of these areas! Even the dealer is embarrassed enough to offer discounts on the repairs now! Last MOT (in July) for example cost £2,000. By late October the heater, alarm, electric windows and engine cooling had all gone wrong again. That's completely typical of the BMW's reliability the whole time I've owned it.

My new car arrives on Saturday (NOT a BMW!) and this hopeless lump of junk goes to the scrapyard. That will be a good day. I bought BMW expecting good build quality and reliability, but it's been such a total disappointment that I've lost all respect for the brand and will never touch a BMW again. To anyone thinking about buying one of these cars: be warned...

18th Dec 2009, 13:37

What year was it? I've got a BMW and found it to be the best car I've had, especially regarding reliability. Shame about yours.

1997 BMW 3 Series 328i touring 2.8 petrol

Summary:

Sold comfortable cruiser

Faults:

I replaced a couple of dashboard lights - It cost me a couple of pounds and an hours work.

The rear suspension has started to rattle. Motor for passenger mirror has stopped working.

General Comments:

A fine cruiser, eats the miles up with ease and on the motorway can get 32 mpg (not bad for a 2.8 6 cylinder engine). Heavier on petrol round town however and nearer 28 mpg. Very comfortable and relaxed and although estate version is not massive it is big enough for us. Quick car with a nice torquey engine.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th March, 2003

1997 BMW 3 Series 323i Convertible 2.5

Summary:

Once you get used to the driving position and handling you don't want anything else

Faults:

My power steering system was changed at 12,000 miles.

My clutch and flywheel were changed at 15,000 miles.

My motors for the rear windows were also changed at 15,000 miles.

Some parts on the folding top were also changed at 15,000 miles.

General Comments:

All the above problems were dealt with under warranty.

It's a great car to drive with all the required controls within easy reach for the driver.

For a car of this type the clutch system is crap, I have just replaced a half worn clutch as it was juddering again at the bite point when hot.

The new clutch is even worst it slips in hot and cold conditions.

The flywheel may need to be replaced again, but considering the cost I think it's time to get rid of it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th October, 2002

1997 BMW 3 Series 328i Sport 2.8 petrol, straight 6

Summary:

Quick, comfy, reliable daily driver

Faults:

There was a fault with the cassette player when I bought the car. Since I bought the car from a BMW main dealer they dealt with it straight away and gave me a courtesy car.

No other faults.

General Comments:

The car is almost as fast as an M3 (acceleration and top speed) whilst being significantly cheaper to run. The insurance cost was 1/3rd of what it would have been for an M3, the maintenance has cost me almost nothing (even though I am maintaining the full service history), and the car even has the M3 body kit and split rim 17 inch wheels.

Climate control is phenomenal, leather is sumptuous, steering feel and engine noise inspiring.

Perfect reliability.

Only thing I have to comment on as a flaw is the low speed ride which is a little fidgety. The car does have sports suspension though which is obviously designed for high speed work - the body control between 50mph and 150mph is fantastic.

The standard fit tyres are Michelin Pilot Sport SX, in 225/40 front and 245/40 rear. Whilst they grip prodigiously in the wet and dry and wear fairly well, they are VERY NOISY.

I shall be changing to Bridgestone S03's soon - I have these on another car and they are wonderful.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 24th July, 2002

25th Sep 2002, 05:39

I would like you confirm the tire sizes you have quoted as std fit. Reason being that when I bought my 328 sport coupe it came with the split rim wheel with tire size 235 40 17 all round! I would have thought 245 would rub. Looking fwd to your response.

Thanks.

Moe.kadri@zoom.co.uk.