BMW 3-Series Convertible 328i 2d Auto (95) (1997/P) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
Even several years old, they are still going to cost more to buy, insure and maintain than a sub-compact Kia or Daewoo etc., but most owners seem to consider the expense to represent very good value for the enjoyment, fun and image.
Costs
I have not had enough personal experience to comment. I would recommend finding an independent BMW specialist.
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On the road
Driving
This is a ""driver's car"", which basically means you get lots of ""feedback"" and ""involvement"" driving the car. That means you can feel the bumps, hear the engine roar (nice deep, powerful tone). This car will NOT transport you smoothly in silence.
Performance
This car is very fast at all speeds. It is happy round town and also invites being driven fast. Handling is excellent. Engine and transmission really do power the car like a rocket. Excellent steering and grip. I have ABS and ASC+Traction too.
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Living with it
Reliability
Everything works. Nothing has gone wrong expect the roof has started sometimes sticking on the way down, but continues down automatically with a little quick push from me.
Image
Excellent image in its day. But it is 7 years old now, so not quite as desirable as a new BMW model!
Comfort
Comfortable, supportive leather seats, but not too much room in the back. If you like the luxury feel, calmness, quietness, isolated, smoothness of a Lexus LS400 then you will hate this car (hence rating of 2). Personally I would now prefer an LS400.
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Security and Service
Security
Convertible doesn't have interior microwave sensor, but the anti-theft system alarms the rest and immobilizes the car. If you always drive with the doors locked and windows closed, then you're going to feel a bit exposed if driving with the top down.
Service
I have had no dealings with BMW. Bought from Exotica, Watford. Use Attach, Liverpool (independent BMW specialist).
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Engine is excellent.
Other
Some squeaks (probably because it's a 7-year-old convertible) with 60,000 miles (100,000 km).
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
No