What should I look for when buying a used BMW

[jviola]

Hello to all,
I'm interested in buying an older 3 series BMW, something from around 1996 to 2000. I'm not that familiar with BMW so I'm wondering if there is any particular model, engine or year to stay away from? E36 Vs E46? How are the automatic transmissions, do they usually need an overhaul after 100K or are they good for 160 to 170K? How are the engines, are they
reliable? What's a better engine the 1.8 or 2.8? I'm looking for one that's good on gas! What are the common problems with this car? What should I look for when checking out a car to buy. Thanks.
Jerry

[strad]

If you want long-term reliability, I'd stay away from pretty much all the automatics. They are hit or miss on reliability. The E46 323i has head problems (more than a few have cracked the head near the back, without overheating it). If you're going for an E46 I'd get a later model year, and not a 323i.

You can visit fueleconomy.gov for epa numbers on these cars. The 1.8 gets great gas mileage, but the 2.8 will give you good gas mileage and much better performance. The engines are all pretty reliable with good maintenance. Keep the cooling system in good shape though, because if you overheat one of these it's pretty much guaranteed you'll break something, either a head gasket or a head.

Check out the threads at the top of the first page for faqs.

[tH16]

Threads at the top of the page give you a good pre-buy inspection checklist.

[scooper]

autos are fine. You need to see the maintenance receipts. I'd rather buy a higher mileage car with receipts than a lower mileage one with nothing or much fewer receipts. Search for the buyer's list like other posters have said. If you want an auto a E36 318 is kinda slow, but it's ok in manual form. It's subjective though. I'd also look at a E36 325. You can change out the chip for a little more hp for not too much. As for E46s they're certainly nicer cars, but expect to spend more on acquisition and maintenance. It's also a bigger car and more luxurious. Good luck.