328 purchase - BMW Forum

BD119 · 08-12-2004, 02:39 AM

I'm interested in buying a 328is and I haven't decided whether I'm going to get an auto or a manual. I'm leaning towards a manual but I'm on a budget and i was wondering, if needed, how much a new clutch would be including instalation. I've searched on the site and couldn't find anything.
Thanks

Deloriant · 08-12-2004, 11:07 AM

If you are a sporty driver at heart in the slightest, an automatic transmission just won't cut it for you. I think new clutches cost around $500+, but to be honest I'm not sure. If you are techy enough to do it yourself, it would be free, but I'm guessing at least another couple hundred for the install. I am just bumping your post so someone who knows more can help ya =)

bimmerboy328i · 08-12-2004, 11:20 AM

Yeah, the clutch will be around 4-500. If you're going to get one, you might as well get a performance one. I'm starting to look for a new one myself, but I think I will try to do the work myself.

SHAHAB323IS · 08-12-2004, 11:26 AM

doesn't it cost more if you want it installed

NeverLeaned · 08-12-2004, 11:28 AM

As a recent 328 purchaser.... heres my advice.

Try out 4 cars (forget the prices for a minute of the ads your seeing for a min) ..... trust me you want to drive em just to get a feel for what you like. just go for a couple of test drives.

1. 325 standard
2. 325- auto
3. 328-standard
4. 328- auto

All 4 cars basically identical in appearance and options.

Once you decide on the drivetrain configuration you like the most, then you can start narrowing it down a bit. 2/4 door, I model, IS model etc etc.

When i first drove a beautiful 325Is manual, I thought this is the car for me.... It was only fact that I had an appointment to look at the 328IS manual later in the day that stopped me from jumping on 325 right on the spot. (best thing I ever did)

Good luck....
BTW...IMHO I would much rather pay 3 figures for a clutch than 4 figures for an tranny rebuild (auto's are never the same after a rebuild anyways)

jllphan · 08-12-2004, 12:27 PM

Regardless of your current driving tendencies, an e36 will change that. BMW just doesn't know how to build a car that doesn't make you want to DRIVE.

If you purchase an auto, you'd probably regret it. Not only that, but the potential maintenance on an automatic transmission vastly outweighs a new clutch.

The 2.8L is a very good powerplant. IF you can find a nice 328is (manual) with maintenance records, you will be a very happy person.

BTW,

to the forums!

BD119 · 08-12-2004, 01:45 PM

Would it be pretty hard to change a clutch yourself?

nycbmw325is · 08-12-2004, 01:55 PM

I hate to seem saracstic, but if you have to ask if it is hard to change a clutch, you are not equiped with the tools, equipment , or knowledge to do it. Factor in paying someone to your price. Incidentally, while I am not sure about the BMW's nearly every other car sold is a little cheaper with a manual tranny than an auto, at least in the northeast (USA)

BlantonG13 · 08-12-2004, 02:26 PM

much agreed NYC!!!

and definitely MUCH more worth it...

DesertRat_328i · 08-13-2004, 12:32 PM

328i manual has given me a case of 'perma-smile'

amancuso · 08-13-2004, 01:36 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by jllphan@Aug 12 2004, 01:07 PM
Regardless of your current driving tendencies, an e36 will change that. BMW just doesn't know how to build a car that doesn't make you want to DRIVE.

If you purchase an auto, you'd probably regret it. Not only that, but the potential maintenance on an automatic transmission vastly outweighs a new clutch.

The 2.8L is a very good powerplant. IF you can find a nice 328is (manual) with maintenance records, you will be a very happy person.

BTW, to the forums!

I have had only auto trans BMWs and never had a problem or maintanence issue with one yet??? My 328iCa is very responsive and is still fun to drive.... and is especially forgiving if im stuck in traffic, no clutch leg! LOL

-Al.

Kevin325i · 08-13-2004, 01:44 PM

You could do it yourself, but expect it to take you a couple of days atleast. There's some really good write ups if you google tech articles.

DeefNDorf · 08-13-2004, 02:03 PM

Hmmm..I agree...I use to be manual all the way till I got my auto 328is...now I feel at ease...as as for response I have found that I can manipulate the RPMs just as well...all depends on what you want..

BD119 · 08-13-2004, 02:27 PM

Alright thanks

jllphan · 08-13-2004, 02:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by amancuso@Aug 13 2004, 02:16 PM
I have had only auto trans BMWs and never had a problem or maintanence issue with one yet??? My 328iCa is very responsive and is still fun to drive.... and is especially forgiving if im stuck in traffic, no clutch leg! LOL

-Al.

I'm glad you've been so lucky. I had to replace the tranny on a 1993 525it and it set me back a cool $2700. As it was my first auto in about five years, I was glad to get rid of it and back to the fun!