BMW 1996 3-Series Saloon

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  • Economy

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Obviously some items are expensive, but serviced by excellent small local garage at sensible prices. (The garage owner bought his BMW 5-Series from the same dealer as myself.)

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    A smooth ride with a bit of urgency when needed. Better than my previous BMW, a 316i.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Bought in November (for my birthday!) - head gasket blew in December, but repaired at no cost by excellent independent specialist car dealer straight away. Since then, no problems.

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Though "only" a 318, it attracts many impressed comments.

    Comfort

    5 out of 5 5.0

    A comfortable car with plenty of room, but needs a place to store CDs.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Had to have newer immobiliser fitted at extra cost as it seems many systems are no longer foolproof to those with the criminal know-how.

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Tip-top!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Blown gasket as mentioned above. Otherwise no problems.

    Other

    Nothing to date.

    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