BMW 3-Series Coupe 323i 2d (1997/P) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
Top German quality - built to last and feels solid as a rock - you won't like driving your tin Ford or Vauxhall after this!
Costs
Fairly high, but then it's a BMW - buy a Rover or Ford if you want cheap running costs (BMW garages expensive - but that's to be expected - they're complicated cars).
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On the road
Driving
Excellent handling, good suspension - seems just right for comfort/handling balance.
Performance
Excellent, refined and powerful 2.5 - not 2.3cont engine - very quiet (the heater fans make more noise that the engine at idle!) A marvel of engineering (best engine I've driven - sweet as a nut and with a powerful punch)
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Living with it
Reliability
No problems so far. Make sure you use good quality oil, filters etc, fluids etc for this superb car (GTX Magnetec is best or fully synthetic). Keep it regularly serviced and it will last forever.
Image
Not a Ferrari, but a high class young gentleman's car who appreciates a good car - looks good, but M3 is the next step for looks/performance!
Comfort
Very comfortable, seats excellent, interior will go the distance and very durable - my only gripe about this car is the foot pedals - slightly shifted over due to RHD I think, but you get used to it. Nice pillarless windows which 'pop' up to seal!
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Security and Service
Security
Key transponder alarm and immobiliser - keeps the scum at bay (pity it can't electrocute would-be thieves).
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
None, but there were problems with engine recalls due to faulty piston liners wearing out prematurely - check that yours has been done under warranty - (did not affect US models - only European). Check the Internet for more details about this.
Other
Just the pedals. Don't know if it was sorted in the new model?
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes