BMW 3-Series Saloon 318i SE 4d (98) (1998/S) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Always a little overpriced, but you are paying for the brand, but the quality feel makes up for this.
Costs
Found it cheap to service at main dealer, long service intervals and never needed any further work above service doing to the car. Averages 38-40mpg according to on-board computer.
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On the road
Driving
The best car I've driven so far, holds the road amazingly well, country roads and twists all in its stride. Dantastic, enjoyable, you can push it and the rear wheel drive will put a safe smile on your face. Traction, corner braking and ABS just brilliant.
Performance
318 is 1.9ish engine. It is decent performer. At motorway speeds, acceleration from 70ish upwards is very quick considering the size of engine. If you want more performance, then go for the 6-cyl models - I tested a new 320 but didn't notice a difference.
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Living with it
Reliability
Flawless. Feels like it would go on forever.
Image
I chose it as it is understated not so in your face as the 'bling' Mercs are. Badge suggests quality. There are many of them around, clearly others know they are good too!
Comfort
Roomy and find it has a comfortable driving position, height adjustable seats for you short arses(!) and dials and switches for radio and climate very easy to come buy.
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Security and Service
Security
Supposed to be a class leader and can't argue. Never had the alarm go off by mistake and never been nicked!
Service
Service has been good. I will definitely get another one the same, I cannot imagine any car driving better, it is perfect quality all rounder.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Other
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