Tips On Buying 318i....advice Needed ;-]

[allymac]

Hi Guys..Im a noob, Im going to purchase a 1992 318i automatic....174,000 km.........looks relatively well cared for ,but dont know the service history....its being imported from Germany.

Im looking for ANy tips or advice on what to look for, I aint ever bought a automatic before ,so things to watch, look out for,knocks etc would be ever sopgratefully appreciated...

[Delmarco]

Originally posted by allymac@Feb 20 2005, 04:52 PM
Hi Guys..Im a noob, Im going to purchase a 1992 318i automatic....174,000 km.........looks relatively well cared for ,but dont know the service history....its being imported from Germany.

Im looking for ANy tips or advice on what to look for, I aint ever bought a automatic before ,so things to watch, look out for,knocks etc would be ever sopgratefully appreciated...

[snapback]295556[/snapback]

Well
I have a 1995 318i auto and I've got no problems...but I've always heard that auto cars keep better and last longer than manual cars.

[allymac]

just read ur "history".......quite cool m8......anyway.......Ive always had manuals....(last car was Alfa Spider....really aint the juice over 4000 rpm).....

.whats the fuel consumtion like on the auto ??
recommend any cool mods.........I aint ever been into modding but the one I want to buy is quite basic.so Ill think about any suggestions anyone makes

[Boxbrownie]

"....its being imported from Germany."



Hmmmmm.......well I live here in europe, and work in Germany quite often, and if its been a normal german car..........its been flat to the floor as soon as it's been put on the autobahn!
So at least the top end won't be coked up!

But as Delmarco says, usually the autos can be better as they have been softer on the drivetrain, although you want to check the box for smooth changes and responsive kickdown.

Best regards David

[allymac]

thanx m8....I'm in Poland, so wont get a chance to "boot it" anyway ..............what about the Gearbox fluid,how often does it need to be checked/changed?

[Boxbrownie]

Originally posted by allymac@Feb 21 2005, 12:29 AM
thanx m8....I'm in Poland, so wont get a chance to "boot it" anyway ..............what about the Gearbox fluid,how often does it need to be checked/changed?

[snapback]295595[/snapback]

Well according to the owner manual.......never!!!!!!!!!!!!

quote "Permanently filled, no oil changes"

Not quite so sure I would go along with that after 174,00Km though.......

Best regards David

PS. Better get the springs uprated for the Polish roads!

[BMWjesterFAN]

Check out the Downing Atlanta Supercharger if you ever get bored with the stock 318i performance...and you will get bored with it after a while. Gas Mileage is pretty good though. Have fun!

[bigred318]

the engines are strong in that car(lasting time) so that will be a plus with the car... a 318 manual compared to an auto is a huge difference so if you can find a 5 speed you might be better off.. but if not have fun with your car! they are nice and relaible and bmws are always fun!

David

[vincentwashere]

my tip is not to buy that 318, because they are weak, use that money and find a 325 or 328. they arent that much more than a 318, although its got a great i4. if your not planning for speed and if the price is right, stick with the 318