FS 318is what do ya think?

[GR330ZHP]

Hey guys

There is a 1996 318is for sale....its 5 speed, black on black, one owner and in pretty good shape, heated seats, tinted windows...it has 150k though...

If this car could be had for $2500-$3000 is it worth it?

I know that a blower resistor may be needed....but everything else is in great shape, new tires, recent brakes....no rust...

If i can ill try and post some pics...

[poohlikeshunny]

Sounds not bad for 2500-3000 if it really is in good conidition. If most of the work was done so that you know you will have a mostly problem free car for another 50k, then I would say it's worth it. I have seen 318 verts going for about 3500-4500 with similar mileage, but with a LOT of work done. On the flip side, I have seen 318is and 318ic's going for 2000-3000 too but they are usually in need of some minor (or major) work that is not being disclosed.

It's an e36, so there will most likely be SOMETHING it will need...but if it's say, a 40 dollar CCV valve vs. a 500 dollar cylinder head...well that's self explanatory.

[bimmerfeel]

I have a 97 convertible 318. And a 92 325. I did NOT want a 6 cyl. convertible. The whole concept of a convertible is top down, cruising, enjoying the world: aromas and 360 degree views included. And above 55 mph it gets NOISY; wind, top up or down; tire noise, my own or others; freeway? forget it w/top down... so the 4-banger is the perfect cruiser and at 35 mpg what's not to like? But it is slowwww. Never ever forget that. Can't emphasize this enough. And so that's what the 325 is for. :redspot

[kalumia01]

I really like my 318is. Mine is a 95 which is the last year for OBD1. It gets about 32 MPG if I drive it like a grandpa, and looks great. I always liked the body style of the E36 cars. The price sounds pretty good, if you dont need to do much work to it.

[GR330ZHP]

Now this is OBD2 and its an M42 engine right? 1.9 same engine thats in the Z3?

[poohlikeshunny]

the m44 is what's in the 96...1.9l....i believe m42 stopped for the 95 models and older. But it is OBD2....long live OBDII scanners! but like the other guys said...yeah...great car and great engine...especially if you can appreciate the timeless look of the e36...but it does lack power. If you want speed...dont' waste time with the 318. The only regret I have with mine is that it is not enough power...but like bimmerfeel said, it is a vert and that's really the ultimate goal...a topless RWD bmw...coupe...maybe not so much.

[GR330ZHP]

Well no its not a vert, its a coupe...318is....

Yeah it wouldnt be for me but for one of my friends....he would be trading a Nissan Sentra that is falling apart on him....so it is quicker than that...but he is more interested in looks and handling than speed....

But I will check it out for him and see what happens...

[poohlikeshunny]

well if speed is not his #1 on his list, then this should do fine. I do have to say, as puny as the powerplant is on the 318, it can still handle with the best of them, so don't be afraid.

[Gene1219]

If it is as clean as you say, go for it. When I was looking for the e36, all the 6 cylinder cars in my area were either beat, or out of my price range. My little 318i has been good to me. Just like the others say, it is a sssllllooowww car.