93 or 95 325 is

[AutoFan]

what would be better a 95 w/160k mi for 7k or 93 w/112k mi for 5600?

[jllphan]

It would more or less depend on the individual car than looking for a particular model (just don't buy a '92). Most people say buy as new as you can, and in this case it wouldn't be a bad idea (the '95 has the VANOS- albeit not the dual) but you would have to look at each car individually. Not to sound like a car buying book, but a car with records (particularly a BMW) is always a plus. These cars are notorious for needing water pumps and radiators at higher milages and the car that has already had such preventive care performed is gonna be the better one. Either way if they're taken care of they will easily last 250K+, you just have to perform more maintenance as the miles pile on.

[schnitz]

Service history on cars that age should be top priority when choosing aside from the condition of the car

[El Presidente]

I would get the 93. They are almost identical cars and there are only very subtle styling cues that give it away. The lower milage and lower price make it an appealing choice.

[Andrewsd1985]

Go with lower price and mileage, basically the same car and for the money you save you can add some hp.

[SC325IS]

I've owned both types of vehicles....94 318is and now have a 95 325is. The 325 is so much of a better car all around. I'd choose the 325 if you can handle the extra money. If you're ready to commit $5600 for the 318, it would make sense to spend just a little more ($1400) and get the 325. If that 325 happens to be a sport model, then all the better. You'd get sport seats, sport suspension (lowered a little bit), and 5 spoke rims.

Both cars are essentially similar in many ways, however the biggest difference is with the 325 you get the addition of a leather interior and a 6 cylinder engine. You will definitely notice the added HP, especially when the A/C is turned on.

The higher mileage shouldn't be an issue with the 325, assuming it has been cared for. BMW engines are meant to exceed 200K miles if treated properly.

[eloff19]

i'm sorry if i misunderstood....but isn't he asking about a '93 325 and a '95 325???

[El Presidente]

thats my understanding...

[SC325IS]

Sorry, I sure read that wrong. Been a rough week, I guess.

Anyhow, I would suggest getting the 93. First off, all things being equal, you have less mileage and less cost.

To my knowledge the only differences I can think of are as follows:

- 93 does not have passenger side airbag (this was introduced in 94 models and up)
- front side fender will not have turn signal light for 93, this was issued on 95 and up.
- front bumper (or lower grey spoiler piece) is cosmetically different. 93 model has larger slats or vent holes, while the 95 has more smaller slats.
- steering wheel will have colored BMW roundel logo in the middle for 95 model

Essentially, as mentioned in other posts on this topic, there are only cosmetic differences and nothing important. Use the savings by buying the 93 and you can upgrade as needed.

[hodges76]

I own a 93 325i and have never owned a 95. I think that, for the $$$ the 93 is the way to go..Either way you'd be getting a very good car.

Good luck,
Matt

[AutoFan]

Yeah i still havent sold my car yet, but i think both cars are still for sale.
I like the 93 because it has a lot of maintence done already. But the 95
is lowered with new tires,tint,sport package- could probably get for around 6700.
I just dont know. ghead