1997 BMW 3 Series 328i review from North America
"Outstanding car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The stock 11-button onboard computer didn't work when I bought it, turns out they all fail. I had a guy install a much more reliable 18-button OBC with a rewiring kit, and it works great.
In-windshield radio antenna made for lousy AM-band reception. Had an audio guy install a conventional power antenna. Radio reception is now perfect.
Climate control worked intermittently, had the dealer replace it.
Brake light was out. Turned out it was a loose bulb. Works fine now.
General comments?
I love this car! Outstanding handling and acceleration, great braking. Very quiet in the cabin with all the windows rolled up. This may be an 11-year-old car but it's near perfect in every way.
I tested the highway mileage on a 10-mile-long flat stretch of California freeway at 65-70 mph without any undue acceleration or braking and no gear shifting. Air conditioning was off, windows were rolled up, no passengers. 34 mpg. Around town 22 minimum, 28 maximum. That is pretty excellent by any measure.
One thing I really like: No cam drive belt. This one has a chain drive which should last well beyond 200,000 miles, according to things I have read.
Bought it for $7,000. Wonderfully solid, responsive and well-built. I am beyond impressed. What a great car!
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2008 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.6 6-cylinder Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 97200 miles |
| Most recent distance | 99400 miles |
| Previous car | Acura Legend |
| Date of Entry | 25th April, 2008 |