1994 BMW 3 Series i review from North America
"Great car, but beware if you buy it used"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The car has an oil leak and I believe it may need a new belt. The a/c was completely redone last summer. The clock display needs a new bulb. I had to replace the motor and transmission mounts. The wheel bearings also need to be worked on.
General comments?
I have a love/hate relationship with this car. Although I must say that it is more fun to drive and a lot more reliable than my previous car, which by the way was brand new. I bought this car in 2005. I knew better then to buy a used car without first taking it to a mechanic to be evaluated. My advice to all who read this is, if you are buying a used car make sure you take it to an independent dealer or mechanic and let them run a test on the car. This way you will know exactly what you are getting into. Believe me it will be worth the effort.
Had I done that I would not have bought this car. I am exhausted having spent so much money on fixing all the things that have worn out on this car. (nearly three grand in two years) The good news is that the motor and transmission are still running great. Other than having to change parts because of wear and tear I have had no major problems with this vehicle.
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| 1994 - 3 Series 318i 1.9 Twin Cam 4 I adore it |
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| A sporty, speedy, corner hugging, comfy, video-game-like ride |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 1994 |
| Year of manufacture | 1995 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | Semi-Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 129000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 174000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Mustang |
| Date of Entry | 13th February, 2008 |