Bmw Buying Advice - BMW Forum

sairam313 · 03-12-2005, 07:17 PM

Hi,

I am planning to buy a used 1996 white 328i with 95000 miles on it. I have never owned a BMW before and I don't know if there are any known problems with this model.. I have a few questions

- What is the best price for this car? I am will get this for 9K
- I find that the gas pedal is quite stiff and it has friction. It doesn't feel pleasurable to drive. Is this common with BMWs? I have driven 2 cars of same type and both had the same stiffness
- Are there any specific mechanical problems that I should look out for in this model?

Any advice will be greatly appreciated

Thanks in advance

Sairam

fredo328 · 03-12-2005, 08:24 PM

9K is about average with that mileage, KellyBlueBook has it at $9625. I got my 98 at 57,000 for 12k. Anything before '97 had issues with the waterpump (plastic impellers) and the first thing you should do is replace that and thermostat. Other than that you need to troll the forums for 'perceived problems' on this model coupled with the maintenance history of your car. I say perceived because some of us consider some issues as normal wear and tear compared to others that complain that bushings should last forever. You gotta be realistic, things wear out. As a starting point, make sure that the service 1 and 2 items have been addressed. You should be good from there.

sairam313 · 03-13-2005, 03:32 PM

Thanks for your reply...

Any idea about the stiff gas pedal? is it normal?

robbins6103 · 03-13-2005, 04:06 PM

the overall stiffness of the car is one attribute that these cars have. The gas pedals, steering, braking, and feel of the car is striffer than your average sports sedan. Thats what makes BMW "The Ultimate Driving Machine". I'm sure you will be happy with your purchase.

Dustin

94BMW325i · 03-13-2005, 04:32 PM

stiff gas pedal? Our 78 lincoln has a very stiff gas pedal, plus it never seems to start...

sairam313 · 03-13-2005, 05:02 PM

Thank you very much. That helps.

robbins6103 · 03-13-2005, 08:52 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by 94BMW325i@Mar 13 2005, 04:32 PM
stiff gas pedal? Our 78 lincoln has a very stiff gas pedal, plus it never seems to start...

[snapback]310434[/snapback]

Thats because its a 78 Lincoln