Ez8

So lately I have been in search of a new daily, but I also want it to be able to handle a nice spirited drive through some back roads. During my search I have come across a 1992 318iS with 106,000 miles on the chassis and 42k on a new “used” motor, that’s well within my price range. Before I make my mind up, I would like to some of the pros and cons of this series i.e.( handling issues, maintenance issues, ect...). I have searched the web a bit and have come up with very little, so your info would be much appreciated.

slamd_s_dyme

BMWs are nice cars if theyre taken care of, however parts are a little pricey (like most german cars). I've worked on a few of them and they can be tricky, especially when it comes to anything electrical.

Archer

Don't bother with an e36 318iS they're garbage. They really are too slow to be much fun. I'd go for a nice e30 325iS or an e36 325iS.

CavemanRacing

For the most part, I agree with topik here. I wouldnt say they are garbage, but they are just not made for "spirited drives"

E36 325is manual is what you are looking for.

Niburu

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/
take a couple days and peruse the site for info and the going rate on some of the cars

dizz81

^^ Very sound advise.. Trust me on this one.. Do some research.. Learn as much as you can about BMW's and how to work on them.. You'll save yourself A LOT of money by doing most work on the car yourself.. Trust me on this one, I used to own a 330ci and I saved myself labor rates between 90-120/hr from dealerships and specialty shops..

stikrz

i am the proud owner and bmw mechanic of my 4th bmw, and i used to own a 95 318ic. they are wonderful cars, regardless of how slow they are. they share the same suspension (generally) as a 323 or 325. if you get a 318 atleast shoot for a manual. the m42 4 cyl engine is an easy engine to work with and troubleshoot. be aware of a few things:

keep an eye on the temp gauge. the plastic cooling parts tend to fail. usually you wont warpa head or blow a motor but you might lose a hose or 2.

always keep good maint on the motor! they will last forever if you take care of them.

if you need parts on a budget, get to know people. but paerts arent all that bad... just gotta know where to look.

if you really want a spirited drive, get an e28 m5.

Archer

I agree with everything you said until the very end, why would you want to drive a saloon on a spirited drive?

blah

Because the 4-doors handle better than the 2-doors....

Archer

my point is that if you're looking for a sports car an e28 m5 isn't it.