1998 BMW 3 Series Reviews - Page 7 of 7

Replacement clutch fitted at 39,000 miles. BMW told me this was not uncommon.

This car is everything I could ever want from a car, the build quality is superb.

Don't doubt the performance of these cars either. I upset my friend after his 40k Porsche Boxster 2.7L could not pass me, he-he.

- Lambda-Sondd produced errors (replaced under warranty).

- Windscreen wiper electrics and motor (replaced by warranty).

- Damper shield of the left exhaust went loose (when driving in snow). Fixed by dealer at Swiss $ 0.--

Generally, this car is very reliable. There are some special technical things you have to get used to.

Everything is well built and solid.

Especially here in Switzerland, the M-Tech package (especially with the lowered down suspension) is not the best in snow - I lost an exhaust-shield.

Servicing is less expensive than with French cars here in Switzerland (lucky us!). In Australia and in America this seems to be "slightly" different.

The list price is high, but have a look at it after 200'000 KM... A BMW you still can sell... Try this with a Renault or a Fiat. And calculate what you've spent on a French car meanwhile. I really was surprised.

The 5-Gear automatic is OK, especially in town. You almost do not get the difference between a hand-shifted and an automatic looking to performance. Both cars are fast enough.

Overall petrol consumption is OK (about 9l Super-PLUS).

Automatic alarm/key fob battery leaked, I had to buy a new one for £70.00.

This car is really good looking, stands out in a crowd.

Handles well, Michelin tyres go on forever & stick to the road.

Acceleration is a bit disappointing, but it cruises well on the motorway.

Nothing that is a cause for concern. Bulb that illuminates the air conditioning screen blew. Replaced by the dealer at a cost of £24!!! That is the only gripe I have with this car.

Otherwise superb in every other respect. Overall the dealers are also helpful and good.

This is the best car I have ever owned. The BMW 'thing' definitely exists.

Mine is one of the very last E36 3 Series. It was an ex-demonstrator, passed then onto its first owner then me.

The attention to detail and little silly things bring this above any car I have ever owned. It's fantastic to drive at night, the orange glow of the computer, instruments, and climate control makes you feel like you are flying a plane. Also the engine is very smooth and powerful.

The leather is still very fresh and soft, and the paint is still in great shape. So it should be for a £28000 car!!

If you have never driving a BMW it is recommended. Recently test drove a new shape 325ci, that was out of this world. Next year maybe mmmmmm...!

To sum it up, a great ride, driver satisfied, powerful refined superb car.

Rear windshield shattered for no apparent reason, car in garage - dealer of no help!

Cheap 'leatherette' interior is uncomfortable and wears badly.

Nice car, but would expect more for the price. The next model year, the car was completely redesigned leaving me with somewhat of an ugly duckling.

Very, very slow car. 6 cylinder performance is disappointing.

Tall drivers beware! You'll shut your head in the door!! gasp!

Steering rack completely replaced after 8 months.

Well, to pay £20k for this when you can currently pick up a Mondeo new for half the price seems a poor deal. Whilst feeling very solidly put together and with good handling, it still seems as though you're paying 25% for the badge. Still, we all continue to do so (Must keep those Bavarians happy).

Vibration at the back under hard acceleration (later found to be bad rear supension), puncture, boot lock failed to lock with central locking. Replaced motor under warranty quickly.

First thoughts were disappointing, a little sluggish considering the engine size and fuel consumption. Nice leather interior and build quality. Not as individual as a Jaguar.

There is a rattle from the driver's door window winder. Been in twice -- not fixed.

Magnificent car.

Front fidney grills loose on purchase - had to be replaced. Analog clock faulty - replaced - all under warranty.

The best value for money BMW - especially with all the (M3 type) S Pack extras. Fitted Schnitzer lowered suspension - did not make any great improvement in handling but car now looks even sleeker. Black metallic paint hard to keep clean - bird droppings need removing quickly or will damage surface. Car a magnet for vandals - has been scratched once but otherwise is a pleasure to own.