1990 BMW 3 Series Consumer Discussions

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Passt TDI [nyccarguy]

  Written by: flightnurse on Apr 19, 2012 10:29:33 AM

  NYC here is your future car.... http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1990-BMW-ALPINA-B10-BI-TURBO-76-/160785574761?pt=- US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item256f912b69#ht_25708wt_1165

• Re: Any other cars to talk about? [sweendogy]

  Written by: nyccarguy on Apr 3, 2012 12:29:38 PM

  sweendogy - I'll agree with you that price absolutely matters in this and any category. Everybody's got a price ceiling, whether its a dollar amount or a payment amount whether you are talking Civic vs. Focus, this current crop of ELLPS, The 5, E, A6 group, and even the 7, S, A8 models. Price drove my purchase. I had equity in my Acura, BMW offered generous discounts and incentives, so I ... Read More

• All Quiet Here

  Written by: nyccarguy on Mar 24, 2012 5:48:25 PM

  I guess everyone here is waiting to hear what I think of my new 328xi. You guys are a tough crowd, so I hope I can deliver. I also know some of you have read my story on "Real World Trade In Values" & "Stories From The Sales Frontlines," so I'll try an tailor to the enthusiasts here comparing it to my (former) TSX and my all time (personal benchmark) 2001 ... Read More

• Sorry to dissapoint

  Written by: nyccarguy on Mar 3, 2012 1:07:10 PM

  Flightnurse - I actually don't live in NYC anymore (I did when I 1st signed onto edmunds back in the late 1990's). I live in Connecticut now. But yes, the roads here in the northeast are terrible at best. I went to a BMW dealer on my way home from work today. 1st sat in a gorgeous Black Saphire/Red 135i M Sport/6 speed. After dreaming for a sec and then thinking ... Read More

• Re: "My" 2012 BMW 328i [graphicguy]

  Written by: nyccarguy on Feb 14, 2012 7:51:15 AM

  I agree that $47K is expensive for a 4cyl sedan. Heck, a 528xi w/ a 4cyl can be optioned well into the $60K range (yikes). I don't know if there is a stigma about driving a 4cyl car like there used to be back in the '80s & '90s. The "serial leasse will no doubt take the F30 out on a test drive and feel it has the same amount (or ... Read More

• Re: Yup - 4 days ago [sweendogy]

  Written by: nyccarguy on Dec 3, 2011 7:45:04 PM

  The clunker was a 1990 E30 BMW 325iA coupe. It only had 82,000 miles on it, but was neglected. I had a new radiator put in, a new set of tires, & an alignment. The car drove great as a BMW should, but it had trouble passing New York State inspection. After it passed, the mechanic said to me that I should either find a donor engine or start paying him ... Read More

Buying a Used 3-Series

• Re: What is a better buy: 1999 BMW M3 or 2001 330ci (same mileage each) [Mr_Shiftright]

  Written by: shipo on Oct 3, 2011 9:46:32 AM

  To underscore your point... My son has been looking for a used car and had settled on a mid to late 1990s Audi 90/A4 2.8 Quattro 5-Speed; the first car we drove was a late production Audi 90 with only 90,000 miles on it and in very nice shape. A few dogs with fleas later we drove a nearly cherry looking A4 a year or three newer than the 90 and ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• A4, Acura, 3er

  Written by: nyccarguy on Sep 29, 2011 8:54:32 PM

  markincincinnati & graphicguy Funny how the 3 of us are at opposite ends of the financial spectrum in our lives, yet have similar tastes & tolerances when it comes to cars. The seats in my TSX is one thing that I absolutely LOVE! They are thickly bolstered, firm, & super comfortable. They do a fantastic job keeping my narrow, 150 lb rear end from sliding around during aggressive handling maneuvers. The ... Read More

BMW Driving Experience

• Re: GM UAW Contract [dieselone]

  Written by: roadburner on Sep 20, 2011 7:48:18 PM

  RB, very nice car. The first BMW I ever got behind the wheel of was a 1990 318i which a older friend of mine bought new a year or so out of college. Wow, that car blew me a away. Having mainly driven domestics I'd never experienced a car that performed so effortlessly. It's something that's hard to describe, but the feel of the car was like nothing that I was ... Read More

• Re: GM UAW Contract [roadburner]

  Written by: dieselone on Sep 20, 2011 6:49:15 PM

  RB, very nice car. The first BMW I ever got behind the wheel of was a 1990 318i which a older friend of mine bought new a year or so out of college. Wow, that car blew me a away. Having mainly driven domestics I'd never experienced a car that performed so effortlessly. It's something that's hard to describe, but the feel of the car was like nothing that I was ... Read More

318ti fan problems

• Re: 318ti fan problems [leroy69]

  Written by: roadburner on Jun 15, 2010 9:09:24 PM

  The guy for some reason had to mess with the wiring, something about it being in the wrong position or something, the replacement engine, apparently was a slightly different edition (his words) Here's what almost certainly happened: You original engine was an M42, and your "mechanic" has installed an M44 motor, which is used in later tis(@10/95-on). The M42 has an OBD I engine management system while the M42 uses the ... Read More

BMW 3-Series Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Where to get quotes for extended warranty and maintenance plan [kyfdx]

  Written by: shipo on Feb 25, 2009 8:52:55 AM

  Yeah, I used to be able to buy Mobil 1 0W-40 and Castrol Syntec 0W-30 for about $5.00 per quart, however, these days $7.00 per quart seems to be the norm. Granted we're not talking about a lot of money here, but I don't think I've been able to change the oil in a BMW with a ~7 quart sump for $35 since at least the mid 1990s.

• Re: Where to get quotes for extended warranty and maintenance plan [owner6]

  Written by: kyfdx on Jan 16, 2009 11:48:44 AM

  I'll leave maintenance recommendations to the rest of the board... I haven't had a BMW with over 50K miles since 1990! $90 is not a bad price for a dealer oil change...

Ultimate AWD Sports Sedans

• Re: BMW AWD rocks. End of story. Period. [xeye]

  Written by: shipo on Jan 12, 2009 4:03:26 PM

  Also, check out the right oil. I use Castrol Synthetic 5W-30. Please be advised that Castrol Syntec 5W-30 DOES NOT meet the necessary oil specifications required for any BMW built since at least the late 1990s. Running that oil is a recipe for a sludged engine and a refusal from your dealership/BMW for warranty repairs if/when the engine fails. The only Castrol Syntec that meets the BMW LongLife-98 and LongLife-01 oil ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

• Tort Reform & Weight Distribution

  Written by: riez on Feb 9, 2003 1:08:37 PM

  nkeen... A huge reason BMW keeps speed limiter down (mph-wise) in many USA-models is LEGAL LIABILITY. American legal system is too pro-plaintiff. European systems discourage class action suits, often limit junk science & pro-plaintiff "expert" (i.e., paid for by the plaintiff) testimony, usually force loser to pay (so that alone is a huge disincentive to frivolous suits), often limit non-economic damages, sometimes don't have juries at all or don't let trial ... Read More

2009 BMW 3-Series

• Re: car color Vs engine temperature [circlew]

  Written by: roadburner on Sep 9, 2008 7:55:22 PM

  In the past 20 years I've received two tickets- both for speeding. In 1990 I got tagged by an Indiana State Police airplane(18 over, I think), while in 1997 I got popped for 28 over by the Kentucky State Police. In both cases I wasn't paying attention to my electronic countermeasures and my situational awareness was extremely low. I was driving a red BMW both times, which probably moved me up ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

• Re: abort, abort, abort [nyccarguy]

  Written by: Mr_Shiftright on Jun 6, 2008 8:01:39 AM

  How do you crack a driveshaft? A puzzling diagnosis, that one. Well you could do most of this work yourself--the radiator for instance, and the power steering lines. The pump might be a bit tougher. I don't remember whether you said this was a pristine car or not. At the 1990 level, a BMWs value is based primarily on how it looks, not how it runs. If you had a battered ... Read More

• abort, abort, abort

  Written by: nyccarguy on Jun 5, 2008 7:34:49 PM

  So I'm thinking of aborting project BMW. As I posted above, I drove my 1990 E30 325iA to a very reputable indie mechanic to deal with its alignment, electrical issues, and general well being. Well, I got a call this morning. They told me the power steering pump (leaking) and hoses (cracked & leaking) need to be replaced, the driveshaft is cracked, the radiator is leaking (new radiator plus flush & ... Read More

• This is starting to get interesting

  Written by: nyccarguy on May 20, 2008 7:02:11 PM

  OK, so Saturday after work I make a concious decision to bring my 1990 325i down to the Speed & Sound shop (that I have trusted my 2001 Prelude to for its modifications) for them to rip out the alarm system completely. Every time I walk by the car, the lights are blinking and it is going to KILL the battery. I tell my wife we'll drop it off on our ... Read More

• Thanks Guys

  Written by: nyccarguy on Apr 9, 2008 7:04:52 PM

  I now officially am the owner of a 1990 E30 BMW 325iA 2 Door. I got the title and insurance today. My lovely, beautiful, and adoring wife is going to the DMV tomorrow AM to get plates. I'm going to pick the car up after work on Saturday. I drove the car today. The steering feel is remarkable. Decent pickup from the I6/slushbox combo. I'm really excited! I'll post pictures Saturday ... Read More

• The $695 E30

  Written by: nyccarguy on Apr 6, 2008 6:43:57 PM

  So every Sunday AM during breakfast I scour the local newspaper's "Wheels" section to check out what cars are being offered in the screamer ads and the classifieds. There's a section entitled "deals on wheels" escpecially for cars $5000 & under. I see most of the same cars sit there for weeks at a time, but BMWs seem to be gone by the next week. So this morning I see an ... Read More

BMW European Delivery

• It's funny shipo

  Written by: nyccarguy on Mar 14, 2008 8:16:24 PM

  for 7 years and over 135,000 miles my Mom drove a 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300E with RWD (no traction or stability control) and snow tires (during the winter). During the '90's we had some pretty nasty winters here in the suburbs of NYC (part of which fueled the SUV craze). My parents sold the 300E and leased one of the first 1998 CLK 320s (RWD) for four years. The winters got milder ... Read More

BMW 335i 2007+

• The Ultimate 3 Series

  Written by: jmaroun on Jan 21, 2008 2:14:59 PM

  I'd appreciate your thoughts. My 330i lease is comming up speadilly (in September) and over the last few years I've been contemplating the possibilities of what my replacement car would be. This 330i being my first BMW you may understand how impressed I am especially given that my previous cars have been the following (1990 Mitshibishi Eclypse, Mercury Sable, and Toyota Camry). Yes, I'm pretty much sold on the performance sedan/coupe ... Read More

BMW 3-Series AWD - Pros and Cons

• Re: further thoughts [bruceomega]

  Written by: shipo on Jan 18, 2008 8:09:45 AM

  There is zero doubt that an AWD car with all-season tires will accelerate and/or climb better than a RWD car with winter rubber. That said, describing the driving experience of a winter tire shod RWD BMW as "nerve wracking" compared to that of an all-season shod AWD BMW is disingenuous at best. The truth is that once you're going, the properly set up RWD car will have the advantage in turning ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• LS400 / Q45

  Written by: habitat1 on Jan 9, 2008 3:54:46 PM

  Back when the Lexus LS400 and Infiniti Q45 first came out, I was working for a Fortune 500 company and every other VP and SVP started looking at them. Some of it was the better price/value they offered, but at least as much of it was the fear of expensive repairs and maintenace headaches. Lexus gave very good luxury- albeit in a boring to drive chassis - with Toyota like dependability. ... Read More

BMW 3-Series Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• $x over invoice..

  Written by: scottc3 on Dec 29, 2007 5:27:26 PM

  OK, seems we have all the data for 'over invoice' price we should pay. But, my question is; what is the invoice price we are all comparing to? I recently bought a new Toyota Prius - wanted the gas mileage (50 miles per gal) - and I have a 1990 BMW 535i which is still in great shape. In that 'buying experience', there was always a question of the actual invoice ... Read More

BMW 3-Series Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Any Opinions? [Mr_Shiftright]

  Written by: roadburner on Nov 28, 2007 10:13:11 AM

  thanks! Is this a timing belt or chain engine? It has a timing chain. The only US BMW engines fitted with timing belts were the M20 six cylinders, which were found in the E28 528e, the E30 325e/i/is, and the 1989-1990 E34 525i(the changeover to the twin cam M50 took place during June 1990). The M40 single cam four also used a timing belt, but it was never officially imported to ... Read More

BMW 3-Series - AWD or RWD?

• Re: fedlawman [roadburner]

  Written by: shipo on Oct 12, 2007 9:21:13 PM

  Uh-oh, I see DTM plates. In New Jersey that's a dead give away that the car is owned by the manufacturer. Having worked for a few years in the mid 1990s for MB-USA, I couldn't turn around without seen several DTMs. Then after I left MB, my wife and I built a house on Glen Road in Woodcliff Lake, and if you are familiar with the area you'll know that BMW-USA ... Read More

BMW 3-Series Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement? [grantchstr]

  Written by: joyrider147 on Aug 23, 2007 2:47:08 PM

  All depends on how many miles up put on the car a year and how many times you use your brakes or how hard you use them. On my '96 Dodge Stratus, I only put 2,400 miles a year on the car and only replace the front brake pads once every 2 years, only for safety inspection purposes, only. And the old pads that were removed still had plenty of life ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: banner ads [dontbuylexus]

  Written by: jzalkin on Aug 1, 2007 1:34:39 PM

  This is becoming a back and forth that is not informative nor fun. Considering I point out where Lexus is not as good as others - room, power (IS250), handling - how can I be a zealot or employee. You go way beyond experiences where you state all Lexus cars are bad, unreliable, and that the corporation is defrauding everyone. And yeah, I like to use facts. It is how effective ... Read More

BMW History and Engine Technology

• Re: BMW 2.5 V6 [pearl]

  Written by: shipo on Mar 24, 2007 1:17:11 PM

  IIRC, BMW built some wonderful 3.4 and 3.5 liter I6s back in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Yes, no? Best Regards, Shipo

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Coming to a dealer near you this spring... [1487]

  Written by: shipo on Mar 5, 2007 11:08:17 AM

  "Based on your posts I would assume you are an avid BMW fan." There are fans and then there are fans. Personally I would have no problem buying a competitor, IF, they built a better and more enjoyable car. Case in point, Lexus hyped the Gen2 IS as a better 3-Series. Went there, drove it, walked away shaking my head. Sorry, not even close, rather have a G35. "First of all ... Read More

• Re: Coming to a dealer near you this spring... [shipo]

  Written by: 1487 on Mar 5, 2007 10:44:27 AM

  Based on your posts I would assume you are an avid BMW fan. First of all the current CTS (and many other RWD vehicles) is very close to the 5 in terms of handling, especially if you're talking about the V. I see that your perceptions of CAdillac are stuck somewhere in the 1990s but most of the press and those who follow the industry realize Cadillac is capable of building ... Read More

BMW 3-Series Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Fuel Tank: overflow, .... [cao]

  Written by: fcao on Jan 19, 2007 9:28:44 AM

  Thanks for all the comments above. I guess pumping at a lower flow-rate might avoid this problem in short-term, as suggested above. But my question is: will this kind of problem develop further overtime? I don't want this problem to be a time-bomb to explode after the warrantee expires (two years from now). I have this concern mainly because the fact that the idle engine speed did "fluctuated" significantly (the car ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: BMWs are over-rated [louiswei]

  Written by: habitat1 on Jan 5, 2007 7:40:08 AM

  "So base on that, how should we categorize the ELLPS segment? If comparing TL to 335i is apples to oranges then one of them can't belong in this segment right?" I was commenting on the previous poster's analysis that the 335i cost $10k more than the TL-S as if there isn't a fundamental difference between these cars. There is. Does that mean they aren't both "ELLPS"? I'm not necessarily suggesting that. ... Read More

• Slow?

  Written by: plekto on Nov 28, 2006 4:39:08 PM

  1987 Porsche 928 S4 5.5 1992 Porsche 968 5.9 2001 Porsche Boxster S 5.6 1994 Toyota Supra Turbo 5.3 2004 Mazda RX-8 5.8 1982 Lamborghini Countach S 5.7 2000 Jaguar XKR 5.6 2006 Honda S2000 5.5 1986 Ferrari Testarossa 5.3 1970 Ferrari 330 GTS 6.9 1990 Chevrolet Corvette 5.7 1990 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z 5.8 1987 Buick Regal GNX 4.7(just to prove old doesn't mean slow) 1995 BMW M3 6.2 1998 BMW ... Read More

• Re: Can I bring up the future "1" last time for a momment [rockylee]

  Written by: habitat1 on Oct 5, 2006 10:06:48 AM

  "#1 It's an Acura not a BMW, it won't break down. BIG DIFFERENCE !!!!! " Re-check your facts. Honda/Acura have had major problems with their automatic transmissions. Won't admit to more than 2% failures, but 30%+ of the owners of TL's and MDX's we know (4 of 12) have had failures. In one case, two failures. My Acura dealer has replaced more Acura automatics at less than 50,000 miles than he ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

• Resting

  Written by: riez on Dec 20, 2002 5:40:13 AM

  fjm1... Guess I don't mind too much your constant complaints about your own car and your experiences. It is unfortunate. But believe you go over the top when you criticize BMW in total. And I think it is only fair that you should explain to people that you self admit to "flogging your sucker". BMW builds hundreds of thousands of 3 Series annually. A few bad apples are bound to be ... Read More

BMW 3-series vs Lexus IS

• IS 350 Handling

  Written by: iz4detail on Feb 2, 2006 7:33:00 AM

  I am contemplating purchasing an IS 350. I am, however, curious how this vehicle handles with speeds of 95MPH and above. I currently own a BMW 330 and it tends to handle pretty good at these speeds. I have yet found a vehicle that handled as well as my parent's 1990 Mitsubishi Eclipse AWD Turbo. This vehicle made you feel like you where driving at 55 MPH while you were at ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2006

• Re: Park Distance Control [rhmass]

  Written by: shipo on Jan 3, 2006 8:26:18 AM

  "The frequency of beeping increases as the distance between the rear bumper and the object decreases. When it is only 12 inches of space left, the beeping becomes a steady one." Hmmm, I really learned to parallel park while I lived in Chicago during the 1980s and early 1990s, and then used that skill again when I lived in Manhattan during the mid 1990s. What the Chicago experience taught me was ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: MB versus BMW [lehrer1]

  Written by: shipo on Oct 12, 2005 8:47:03 AM

  "By the way it was funny to see the parking lots at MB: one can see a sea of cars, all MB." I used to work for MB-USA in the mid to late 1990s, and for a while I was helping out on a project in Stuttgart. Due to the fact that I was a consultant I was not allowed to drive a company car "for insurance reasons", so they rented ... Read More

BMW 3-Series Maintenance and Repair

• Extra oil changes...

  Written by: shipo on Sep 27, 2005 8:25:46 PM

  I've written about this quite often over the years, so the following is a cut and paste job from several of my previous posts: When I started turning wrenches on cars back in the 1970s, 3000 miles was a good time to do an oil change. What with inefficient carburetors, leaded fuel and by today’s standards VERY low-tech dino-juice in the crankcase, a car of that era could easily expect to ... Read More

• My BMW Wont Start

  Written by: leron on Sep 7, 2005 6:22:20 PM

  I have a 1990 325i 4 door automatic BMW. My car sits about 4 inches from the ground, so when I hit the speed bump at the bank I cracked my oil pan. The oil spilled on to the concrete. So I drove the car a quater of a mile to Auto Zone. When I got there the engine was smoking. Of coure Auto Zone is not going to have an ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Re: Comparo [oac]

  Written by: blueguydotcom on Aug 31, 2005 9:12:07 AM

  I notice that NONE of the BMW officianados posting here have provided a SINGLE stat to back their statement about how the Bimmer is better than the IS. Rather its the same ol' same ol' you trut out about how BMW is such a great handling car... blah blah blah.. Can you tell me with stats why Veal Cordon Bleu tastes better than a McDonald's hamburger? In 1990, MB execs and ... Read More

• Re: Comparo [pg48477]

  Written by: oac on Aug 31, 2005 8:08:40 AM

  I notice that NONE of the BMW officianados posting here have provided a SINGLE stat to back their statement about how the Bimmer is better than the IS. Rather its the same ol' same ol' you trut out about how BMW is such a great handling car... blah blah blah.... I'll say it again: the new IS350 is a 3-er beater. It comes with everything you'd need to kick the 330i, ... Read More

Ultimate AWD Sports Sedans

• Re: s40 [dhanley]

  Written by: swedishiron1 on May 6, 2005 11:09:21 AM

  My point is that many German car fans brag about how superior their cars handle, how well they brake, etc etc - swear these cars are the best at this and that yet they are going to salvage yards to pull rear Disc brakes assemblies off the back of 20 year old Volvo 240(s) to put on their similar vintage or newer BMW - i think that says a lot. You ... Read More

• Re: s40 [dhanley]

  Written by: swedishiron1 on May 3, 2005 1:08:33 PM

  "Really? I can't find drum parts listed for a 1990 318i. There are ABS parts listed, though, something not listed for a 1990 240. " Lesser European 3 series had drums on them into the 1990's. I was utterly shocked when I realized the 1985 Audi 5000 I purchased had drums on the rear - bad assumption on my part - I just assumed since my 1978 240 wagon had 4 ... Read More

• Re: s40 [swedishiron1]

  Written by: dhanley on Apr 28, 2005 8:23:39 AM

  "the Europeans actually consider the S80 T6/Executive versions as smart alternative to costlier versions of the Audi A8 and BMW 7 series" I frankly don't think those are competitive cars. I've driven the 7 and s80t6 and the s80 is a pig compared to the 7. The handling isn't even close, and the s80's ride and interior don't measure up either. However, the s80 is quite a bit less costly than ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2006

• Re: AWD or RWD [bigpapaluke]

  Written by: shipo on Apr 5, 2005 6:06:07 AM

  Hey Big Papa, Gee thanks, I think I blushed. ;--) Regarding how to set your (potential) BMW up for winter, I know many around here might disagree with me, however, IMHO, unless you live in the Canadian Rockies you don't really have a need for the AWD "xi" option. So, in my opinion, you should go for the RWD "i" model, and then "buy" a little extra "piece of mind" from ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

• Re: shipo & div2 re: motor oil [potemkin]

  Written by: shipo on Mar 15, 2005 6:48:57 AM

  Since I started using Synthetic Oil, I have always used it right from the first oil change and never looked back. I have heard stories that suggest that by switching to synthetic oil later in a cars' life, you run the risk of generating leaks. I have also heard that if you do switch, you should initially change your oil MORE often since the greater cleaning ability of the synthetic oil ... Read More

• many things

  Written by: 1pierce on Aug 20, 2002 2:02:49 PM

  mg330ci poll: Won't have my Bimmer until Thurs. As with all of my new cars, I will read the manual cover-to-cover, with excruciating attention to detail, the first week, and then won't look at it again until I need to know something. A4 and Brakes: I test drove 4 different 2002 A4's, with various engine/drivetrain combos. The one thing they all had in common was brakes that were noticeably inferior to ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Where They Were Way Back, Then, and Now

  Written by: riez on Dec 13, 2004 10:40:30 AM

  eaton53... Would be interesting to compare market share, sales, reliability and customer satisfaction date for both Cadillac and Lincoln in 1985 (before A, I, & L) and then in the post-A-I-L era (i.e., say 1990, 1995, 2000, and 2004). C & L, like A, BMW, & MB learned some hard lessons.   maxhonda99... Did they renovate the building significantly? A, I, & L had completely new franchise agreements when they came ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

• crunched

  Written by: huntzinger on Aug 6, 2002 1:01:13 PM

  A brief "About the Book" description hardly indicates it has anything to do with the specific subject under discussion. If it does, please post a link to the specific section(s) ... I'm not going to even try to summarize a 400 page copyrighted technical textbook. Take the listed ISBN and plug it in to Amazon and find a copy to buy. The few pages that you can read online hardly even ... Read More

• Engine Configuration and Safety

  Written by: riez on Aug 6, 2002 10:33:13 AM

  huntzinger... A brief "About the Book" description hardly indicates it has anything to do with the specific subject under discussion. If it does, please post a link to the specific section(s) or e-mail me the relevant portions. Believe my address is in my profile. I'd love to learn more about the specific subject we've been discussing. As mentioned in prior posts, there is a difference between crash test results in a ... Read More

• BMW Maintenance Observations

  Written by: div2 on Dec 6, 2004 1:15:20 PM

  BMW actually extended the brake fluid and coolant change intervals back in the early 1990s, and I've yet to see any evidence that the increased maintenance intervals have had any effect on the longevity of brake or cooling system components. That said, I would change the brake fluid on a 6-12 month interval if I planned to use the car at drivers schools on a frequent basis. BMW now calls for ... Read More

• Shipo... & xi

  Written by: nyccarguy on Nov 11, 2004 9:16:38 PM

  No need to apologize. You gave him the Cliffs Notes of what I said and that's totally cool. Great minds think alike:) I'm subliminally pushing the 330xi for my Mom as her next car. She has an Audi A6 3.0 Quattro that has a lease ending in March. She absolutely HATES it and can't wait to rid herself of it. She's also one of these suburban New Yorkers that thinks AWD ... Read More

• kyfdx

  Written by: div2 on Nov 4, 2004 11:17:07 AM

  A Club Sport might be worth a small premium to someone who really, really, wants one. I seriously doubt that they will ever be collectable, even though less than 300 were built. FWIW, mine is especially rare because it is one of no more than than 5 that were built without a sunroof; Prior to SOP BMWAG decided to make the sunroof a "mandatory option" on all Club Sports. My salesperson ... Read More

• Since I was just an observer on this board till now....

  Written by: mbarto on Jul 18, 2002 7:44:50 PM

  here's my vehicle history: 1977 Dodge Van (New) - My first vehicle. Customized it myself, bed and all. "Chickmobile" - until it got totaled by a head on - not my fault. But I was blessed I lived, the other driver died. 1976 Chevy El Camino SS (Used) - My van replacement from the insurance settlement. 1978 Fiat X-19 (Used) - Brainwashed by the movie "Breaking Away" and since I had ... Read More

• my car sequence

  Written by: allano on Jul 18, 2002 4:45:35 PM

  1966 Barracuda fastback: 273 cin V8, 4 spd., RWD Put on Michelin radials and thought it was the cat's meow until I drove a VW beetle. The Beetle was a fun car. 1968 Datsun SRL311, 135HP, 2L 4 cylinder, 5 speed, RWD, 2 seat rag top. (MGB imitation). With its narrow tires, learned about understeer/oversteer, affects of tire pressure, front/rear damping (w Koni shocks) and how to drive around corners with ... Read More

• Auto.........Biography

  Written by: twoof1 on Jul 18, 2002 7:17:40 AM

  First let me preface this list with 3 comments 1. I'm really not THAT old (41) 2. I drive a ton of miles and beat up cars pretty fast. 3. This list is for my wife (of 17 years) and me. 1961 Chevy Nova II wagon (inline 6) 1976 Plymouth Arrow Coupe 1982 Mazda 626 Coupe 1984 Honda Civic 1988 Ford Escort GT 1990 Honda CRX SI (pocket rocket) 1992 Honda ... Read More

• My list...

  Written by: div2 on Jul 17, 2002 9:08:26 PM

  In order of purchase: 1974 Monte Carlo-bought new. Added: 3.42 gears, Edelbrock Performer Intake, recalibrated(by me)Q-Jet carb, Crane Hi-Torque Cam, Blackjack headers, CBQ Turbo Mufflers, Mallory Unilite/MSD-5A ignition, B&M Transpak Shift kit, Monroe Gas Magnum shocks, 15X7 Cragar SS wheels, Michelin X tires. At full throttle the sled would chirp the tires on the 1-2 and 2-3 upshifts. 1969 Datsun SPl-311 roadster-bought used in 1977. Intended to restore it and never ... Read More

• My Car History

  Written by: abcnyc on Jul 17, 2002 6:45:17 PM

  This list is a combination of my wife's and my cars throughout the years. 1979 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme 1979 Mazda RX-7 1984 Mazda 626 1984 Mazda RX-7 GSL-SE 1985 Enault LeCar (2nd car - beater for winter) 1886 Honda Civic (got married - wife's car) 1987 Mazda RX-7 1988 Mitsubishi Mirage (wife's car) 1989 Geo Storm 1990 Toyota Paseo 1990 Toyota Corolla (wife's car) 1993 Ford Explorer (wife's car, I inherited ... Read More

• chronology

  Written by: erickpl on Jul 17, 2002 7:58:55 AM

  Okay, here goes... 1985 - parents 1985 Mazda 626 - totalled in a car wreck - my fault - manual 1986 - bought 1976 Chevy Monte Carlo - banana yellow with black tint and a 4' antenna. Looked like a dang bumble bee! - swivel seats in front - auto - relatively few problems (mainly electrical because somebody crossed jump start cables) 350 V8 that would about die when the gas ... Read More

• Chronology of Cars

  Written by: burrsr on Jul 17, 2002 6:41:28 AM

  OK, I'll play too. Although rather limited due to age, here's a brief recap of my auto ownership experience: 1986.5 Mazda B2000 Pick-up manual - cheap college transportation. 1990 Honda Accord EX manual - upgrade thru graduate school, and a heck of a car from the day when Accords were less "appliancy". 1995 Acura Integra GS-R manual - the "starter" BMW and my first new car. An unbelievable amount of fun, ... Read More

Good, Bad or Ugly - Current and Future styling trends of BMW

• Sales

  Written by: riez on Jul 13, 2004 4:49:58 AM

  tlcman... BMW's management has been obsessed with sales for many, many years. They have long believed that a modern car company has to reach a certain size in order to survive. Manufacturing economies of scale, market presence, R&D, etc. That was a huge reason they ended up with the Rover debacle. BMW wanted to use Rover to be their "mass market" brand/marque. Is one reason why BMW kept MINI (and is ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Chasing the New vs Keeping the Proven

  Written by: riez on Jun 19, 2004 3:54:20 PM

  Styling/design tends to be about today and the next 10 minutes. Just standing out. Making some bold statement. But only time will tell if the shape lasts and looks fresh in the future. True performance lasts forever. A classic, almost by definition, is a timelessly styled car that truly performs in comparison to the other cars out there. Think of the Porsche 356 and '57 Chevy. Or the Jaguar E-type, Corvette ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

• My hat is off...

  Written by: shipo on Jun 13, 2002 5:50:40 AM

  ...to BMW, I heard yesterday that my brother-in-law was in a very serious accident in his 1990 E30 325i. It seems that a Dodge Durango ran a stop sign doing something north of 40 and "T-Boned" his BMW hard enough to spin the 325i 2.5 times (according to the police report and the skid marks) and total BOTH vehicles. After they cut my brother-in-law out of his car, they told him ... Read More

Entry Level Luxury Performance Sedans

• Historic family oriented company: BMW

  Written by: shipo on Apr 8, 2004 5:36:40 AM

  When one goes to Europe, one realizes that BMW is just as family and economically oriented as are the Japanese marques. The only real difference is that BMW leaned toward the performance and handling niche whereas the Japanese leaned toward the simplicity and reliability niche, historically speaking. To put this in context, I was doing a project for MB-USA in the mid 1990s and the folks from Stuttgart liked what I ... Read More

BMW 3-Series Maintenance and Repair

• Jenno2

  Written by: shipo on Mar 4, 2004 1:27:43 PM

  Hmmm, before I offer you my own personal views on what oil I use and why, let me state that I am not a petroleum engineer, and have never sent my oil out for analysis, so everything I have to offer is totally anecdotal. First, when one is asked to decide between Mobil-1 and Castrol Synthetic, then one needs to choose between three different and distinct oils. I'll start with the ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

• ya'll know my response

  Written by: blueguydotcom on Feb 9, 2004 4:53:22 PM

  BMW's manual tranny's are not to my liking at all. I love my 330i but that 6 speed is a piece of garbage straight of a 1990s Chevy Camaro. If only it had a TSX manual. That's heaven.

• Riez

  Written by: shipo on Jan 23, 2004 5:52:09 PM

  I am totally serious; there were any number of posts here in the 3-Series board when the E46 first came out about how folks didn't like Xenon headlights. So much so that back in the late 1990's there was even a topic about how bad they were and those of us who opted for them were idiots who were wasting our money. Maybe you don't agree with them (I don't either ... Read More

• Standard Equipment

  Written by: riez on Jan 23, 2004 5:04:47 PM

  shipo... Wonder if you are truly serious or consistent in your position. What percentage of 3 Series have metallic paint? How come BMWs don't come standard with 4-wheel drum brakes with disc brakes optional? Why is ABS standard? Power brakes? Why isn't manual steering standard? And maybe only a standard AM radio or just AM/FM? And why can't you get cloth seats standard (like they can in Europe)? As a comparison, ... Read More

• LSD Only Available on M3 and M5

  Written by: riez on Aug 8, 2003 12:47:46 PM

  There is no LSD for any 3 Series or 5 Series except for the ultra-high performance M versions. This is the one beef I have with my 540i6. Sad not to have LSD. Too bad BMW phased out optional LSD in early-to-mid 1990s with the rise of Traction and Stability control systems. This is horrible. LSD is a fantastic performance enhancer. TC and SC are no substitute for LSD. In the ... Read More

• Hey SDradioguy

  Written by: scipio1 on Jul 31, 2003 10:59:26 AM

  Like Erick said, we're all bound to be at least a little biased here, since most of us voted with our feet an ended up with 3s in the garage. I love the little Acuras. I've gone through 3 Integras myself, and bought two others (one for my mother and an ancient 1990 beater for my litle brother). They are really magnificent little cars, and truth be told, my reaction to ... Read More

• Traction Control & Stablity Control are NOT LSD

  Written by: riez on Jun 13, 2003 2:32:09 PM

  div2... I understand. This rot set in during early 1990s as TC systems came along. But BMW knows enough to know it needs LSD for M3 and M5. Sad that other cars like IS300, Nissan Maxima, etc. can be ordered with LSD!

• '90 325i (E30)

  Written by: pmhtv on Jun 13, 2003 10:52:32 AM

  Recently sold my baby that I've had since new - a 1990 red 325i 2Dr w/ 5spd. Classic BMW style. Thought I would have difficulty selling a manual, but it went on the first day! It was a very good car for me. A blast to drive - did not notice much lean in the turns. Great sounds from the inline 6 at 4,000 rpm and up. Good reliability, although you ... Read More

Good, Bad or Ugly - Current and Future styling trends of BMW

• 3 Series

  Written by: riez on Jun 7, 2003 2:05:32 PM

  indiana97... If you like introduction and production data, check out Jeremy Walton's book, BMW 3 Series Enthusiast's Companion (Bentley Publishers, 2001). Per it, the first 3 Series (E21) was "announced in the first week of July 1975 to the German press and European LHD markets, the 3 Series was also sold in RHD...in Britain in Autumn, 1975.... On sale in US starting November 1976 [320i MY 1977]." The E30 3 Series ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

• Future Exclusivity?

  Written by: riez on Jun 3, 2003 2:20:32 PM

  sunilb... I wonder if some aren't buying due to the potential exclusive nature of the beast. Limited production. Anyone know how many BMW plans to make? Might be a bit more valuable in future than average 330i with Sport Pkg. For someone who wants something a bit different, this might be an affordable it. Closest thing to a factory E46 4-door M3. The coolest BMWs to own are often the rarest ... Read More

Good, Bad or Ugly - Current and Future styling trends of BMW

• Sales and Styling Leadership

  Written by: riez on May 17, 2003 2:23:31 PM

  carguy58... 745i sales rose over 740i. You don't think the new Nissan Maxima isn't radical styling? Or the Mazda RX8? Or that the New Beetle wasn't a radical departure from where VW had been in the early 1990s? Or that the new Infiniti G35 hardly looks like its sister I35 or G20? Or that the G35 coupe breaks new ground for Infiniti styling? Or just compare the Cadillac CTS to the ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

• no title

  Written by: locke2c on Apr 11, 2003 7:22:25 AM

  my advice and experience is that in general BMWs are quite reliable and well engineered, carefully constructed. BUT I do not believe they are as tolerant of poor maintenance as you average Honda or Toyota. I get the feeling that BMW does not engineer for the lowest common denominator, I believe they build the car with the expectation that it will perform properly when maintained properly. the other factor in reliability ... Read More

• Fomentar

  Written by: shipo on Apr 3, 2003 9:01:12 PM

  I too have experienced a momentary hesitation before the brakes "Grab" and you start to slow down. Having said that, I have noticed this phenomena on any number of cars from Europe, not just BMWs. The worst offender was my 1995 VR6 Passat GLX in the cold/wet conditions. I did occasionally notice it on my former 328i as well, and to a lesser degree on my current 530i. When I worked ... Read More

• Opinions on 1990 325i, please

  Written by: 420blackbirds on Mar 10, 2003 5:15:33 AM

  Hi everyone. I'm needing a car, for which I can pay cash, for basic commuting purposes. I've got a friend whose step-mom has a 1990 325i for sale. It's been in the same family since her mom (that is, the step mom's mother) purchased it in 1990. It's got 215k on it, but only 80k on the rebuilt motor. Looks to be in very good shape, and of course I'll have ... Read More

Design your Ultimate Hatchback!

• Simple...

  Written by: huntzinger on Dec 16, 2002 11:13:34 AM

  What I'd be happy with would be essentially a modernization of the pre-1990 Audi Coupe GT or VW Quantum Hatchback, with a few additional tweeks here or there. A modern equivalent would probably be the 2002 Audi S3 or BMW 325ti (Europe only hatchbacks), with the following elements of emphasis. 1. Add ~15" to the length. Europe may need stubby little urban cars, but for the USA, we need to make ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

• I'll add in as well....

  Written by: billiam70 on Jul 17, 2002 2:22:54 PM

  1987: 78 Olds Delta 88 - Hand me down from Dad. Was baby blue with baby blue interior and vinyl roof. Constantly having mechanical problems. Best was when I had no reverse for 3 months! 1988: 84 Ford Mustang - not bad, I enjoyed driving it but by 60,000 miles fuel injection system was shot 1990: 88 Ford Mustang - 4 cyl POS Hated driving that car, even though it was ... Read More

BMW 3-Series: FAQ

• Thinking

  Written by: kdshapiro on Apr 17, 2002 5:59:41 PM

  It's really hard to predict whether a car will be a good car ot not. How long do you want to own it? 3, 5, 7, 10 years or longer. Consumer Reports rates reliability. Whether you take any stock in them or not, at least they've made an attempt to codify reliability. Other than anecdotally I don't know anywhere else that has this information. Having owned two cars for over 10 ... Read More

BMW 3-Series 2005 and earlier

• genie & your car alternatives

  Written by: allano on Jan 19, 2002 8:50:35 AM

  I had to smile when you said you were looking at a CRV and Rav4. I started in that direction after owning a 1990 "tall" Civic wagon and wanted a vehicle with more cargo area than a sedan. I actually got as far as driving the CRV but disliked its lean on sharp turns, high driver position and truck-like steering wheel position. I might have acutally purchased the car if the ... Read More

• 2.5L...

  Written by: jasonkureejii on Aug 30, 2001 7:04:31 AM

  I was wondering how long BMW has kept this engine around? I mean, I've seen older model 3 and 5 series with this type of engine, but is it basically the same engine design with obviously some modifications in variable timing, gear ratio, etc? I was wondering how those older models performed, say a 1990 or so. It would be fascinating to know how the cars have evolved. With everyone and ... Read More

• Black Paint/ Zaino

  Written by: reubencahn on Jul 24, 2001 7:04:28 AM

  I remember reading in some official BMW publication that all paints including non-metallics were clear-coated. And it seems unlikely that any cars are being produced today without clearcoat. On the other hand, nothing shows scratches and dirt like jet black. I've owned one black car, a 1990 RX-7. It was beautiful but an incredible pain. And as much as I love dark colors like black and steel grey, I don't think ... Read More

• Used Acura TL or BMW 323i?????

  Written by: yankeefan5 on Jul 10, 2001 8:35:28 PM

  I currently own a 1990 Aura integral I/ 215K miles on it. I want to replace it with a 2000 or 2001 AL or 323. I drive approx 300 miles per week and want a car which will last for many years. Which car should I choose?????

• errickson - the lawnmower

  Written by: allano on Jun 27, 2001 11:44:57 AM

  Yes, it was a 1990 Civic Wagon but it did not owe me anything. Originally paid $10,100 for it and might have returned $1000 to $1200 for a trade if you believe the nada and kbb sites. It was also at its next maintance cycle for the timing belt, tires and exhaust system. The inside fan stopped working at positions 1 and 2, the front-left spring was broken 3/4 turn from ... Read More

• xi AWD Reliability

  Written by: langley2 on Apr 23, 2001 7:55:05 AM

  Ordered a steel gray 325xi myself on April 1. Test drove the car in a hilly area of my city (with lots of stop signs) during a snowstorm in late February. Pretty much made the decision to order one right then and there. Rock steady. Can't wait to take delivery. I also asked lots of questions about reliability. Learned that AWD is not a new concept at BMW. BMW has apparently ... Read More

• Reliability

  Written by: rascal8 on Jan 24, 2001 7:29:02 AM

  I owned a 318ti in 1995 and sold it in 1997. It did not give me any problems. I am about ready to order a 325ci. My wife and I have always purchased Japanese cars (Honda and Toyota) with the exception of the aforementioned BMW. I am VERY quality and reliability concious. So, I would not be ordering a BMW if I thought it was going to be a nightmare. What ... Read More

• purchase older BMW?

  Written by: pvanmaan on Dec 18, 2000 12:59:24 PM

  I have the opportunity to by a low mileage 1990 325 (under 50K miles) in mint condition. What should I look out for?