1987 BMW 3 Series 325e review from North America
"It's the ultimate driving machine."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced the AM/FM/casette at about 178000 miles.
Replaced the gaskets around the back lights and the trunk gasket to solve a leak at about 177,000 miles. (did it myself)
Inspection 2 at 167,765 miles.: $1691 (with labor)
Front shocks & mounts
Oil pan gasket
Rear rotors, sensors
Brake pads
Plugs, filters, belts.
4 tires @ 112,453 miles.: Michelin MX4 $538.
Front end @ 147,114 miles.: $797
Front rotors, pads, sensor, lower control arms, bushings.
Oil level switch @ about 140,000 miles.: $129.
Replaced front and rear windshield moldings @ 136,200 miles.: $205.
Replaced second water pump @ 136,000 miles.
Etc., etc., etc.
General comments?
I've got a complete maintenance file on this car, all the way back to the original brochures.
It's expensive to fix, but it doesn't break very often.
I drive it hard; love to heel & toe it through a curvy road.
All the maintenance has been routine wear & tear - no accidents; no fender benders.
It's been all over California and still looks like it just rolled out of the showroom (save for a few minor blemishes). I change my own oil & wash and wax it by hand.
It's still a lot of fun and revs right up to redline. It's predictable and nimble. Shifting into 5th at 80 justifies the advertising.
Recommended reviews
  | Mediocre performance, poor reliability |
| This car is worth every penny spent on it and I intend on driving it to the max |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 1987 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5 liter, 6 cylinder Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 180100 miles |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Scirocco |
| Date of Entry | 28th January, 2003 |