Hey Guys, I'm Looking To Buy A Used E36 325 / 328

[Nemesis519]

Hey everyone, I'm new here, My name is Sean. I'm an IT guy for Tweeter / HiFi Buys down here in Atlanta, Ga. I'm looking to get into another BMW, I sold my 92 325i back around 98. I want to get another one, E36 325 / 328 / or M3. I really want an M3, but they are really hard to come by around here, especially in good shape so I may have to settle for another 325 or 328. My budget is around 10 to 15 grand for an M3 and 7 to 9 grand for a 325 / 328

I'm looking for a Blue 4 door. Preferably a stick shift, but if its too good of a deal, I can deal with an auto. :P


Are there any problem areas I should be looking for when i'm out shopping around? Are certain years better than others?





This is my last car, the engine caught on fire when a major oil leak soaked down the entire engine compartment.

[Furious]

ouch harsh loss man, as for problem areas check out the FAQ forum there is a few threads on e36 trouble areas.

good luck and happy hunting

[24valve]

Don't settle for an automatic.

That said, 328s have 20 ft/lbs more torque than 325s despite both having 190hp, as a result they have a lot more pickup. M3s have 240hp and so are quite a bit more tenacious. If you're heavy into modding the '95 M3 is better because it's OBD-I, anything later is OBD-II and is less receptive to modding,

[catalyst.]

If you have the cash to get an m3, take your time and look around for the right one.. dont settle on the 325/8 if you have the means to pick up an m3. I highly recommend getting a 5 speed, the auto will dissapoint you.

[theogill]

I opted to get a 98 328i sport with stick and 50K for around 14K. This last year of e36 328i is the best year to get. If you can get the M3, then of course get it--although I chose not to because of insurance. I immediately put in Dinan suspension to improve handling dramatically.

AVOID the auto... it is notorioius for being a little weak--not one of GM's better tranny's from what I hear.

I love my 328i.

[drz]

I like my 328i. Avoid the auto man. It will not be a good deal of any kind. You will be getting robbed of all the fun of driving.

[drz]

Oh, and check the FAQs. There is a thread on common E36 problems.