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Bmw e36 coupe, what to watch out for

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  • 13-07-2005 7:27pm
    #1
    Cyrus
    Registered Users Posts: 20,057 ✭✭✭✭


    As you know ive bought a 156 5 months ago, i only intend on keeping it for another 5 - 6 months or so as i want to try as many different cars as i can while i have the chance.

    My dad had a new 318is back in 95 and i loved it so im thinking i might go for one or a 320 whnever i sell the alfa, obviously ill try get as high a spec as poss!

    but buying wise what should one look out for on these, also what are the major service intervels and costs, what mileage would they generally do if looked after (im thinking circa 140k?) and are they expensive to service?

    cheers


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    #2
    Seth Brundle
    Moderators, Politics Moderators Posts: 39,736 Mod ✭✭✭✭Seth Brundle


    re buying - check out sites such as e36coupe.com
    also read http://www.e36coupe.com/technical/CHECKLIST.pdf

    the 318is is more powerful and lighter but the 320i has the lovely sounding 6 pot block. The 320i is thirsty enough compared to the 318is but you should still get decent mpg.

    Regarding servicing, BMWs follow a pattern of Oil service, followed by Inspection I, Oil, Inspection II, Oil...
    The period between services depends largely on driving style and distance - for me about every 6k miles approx but Im hard on the car.
    I would use a specialist to perfform the work. They know their way around the car but don't charge dealer prices! see www.bmwcarclubireland.com for a list of some contacts


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    #3
    kdevitt
    Registered Users Posts: 2,277 ✭✭✭kdevitt


    the 318is is more powerful and lighter but the 320i has the lovely sounding 6 pot bloc

    ?????

    You thinking of the E30 Killian?? E36 320i has more BHP and bags more torque...320i is thirsty enough alright though, I'd recommend the 323i if your insurance covers it. Just make sure the short engine replacement was done (they should all have been replaced under factory warranty)


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    #4
    Seth Brundle
    Moderators, Politics Moderators Posts: 39,736 Mod ✭✭✭✭Seth Brundle


    fair play to ya Ken - its been a long day and its far from over yet!

    @ cyrus - I think John Burns also has buyers guides on his site (www.unixnerd.demon.co.uk/bmw.html).

    Total BMW also had buying guides on their website but the site appears to have been stolen or something. However, I have some of them on my machine here if you want them:-
    * Expert Guide: 6-Cylinder E36 diesel
    * Expert Guide: E36 Convertible
    * Expert Guide: E36 Compact
    * EXPERT GUIDE: E36 318iS
    * EXPERT GUIDE: E36 Coupé

    pm me your email if you want them


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