1 of 1 people found this review helpful
By fritz on 11/09/09 14:49 PM (PST)
Vehicle
1997 BMW 3 Series Coupe 318is 2dr Coupe
Review
I own a 1997 BMW 318iS, it's almost identical to an M3 other than the engine which is the reliable M44 4 cyl. A solid car that is nimble and gets 38mpg highway, 24mpg in town, an average of about 30-32mpg. The S version has a lower M3 like sport suspension, wider stance, and mine was ordered with M3 rims which perfectly suit the car without being gawdy. Regular maintenance will give you a reliable smooth ride. Torquey engine redlines quickly with moderate gas but shifter seems longwinded compared to a 1980's Manual. Nice interior, mine has heated seats that warm up quickly in two modes. Multiple cabin vents. May be small for a larger person. I'm 6' tall and fit nicely. Very fun to drive.
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By kayandbert on 06/22/07 18:49 PM (PDT)
Vehicle
1997 BMW 3 Series Coupe 318is 2dr Coupe
Review
I waited a long time to own the car of my dreams. Still looks great sitting in my garage. I still get compliments on the car. Very reliable transportation whether to work or traveling the interstate to visit my granddaughters.
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By templau on 07/02/04 00:00 AM (PDT)
Vehicle
1997 BMW 3 Series Coupe 318is 2dr Coupe
Review
The 318is does not have the power of
other BMW's, but it has the handling,
braking, looks, and feel all BMW's
have. I bought it used because the
price was good and the miles were low
(46,000). At first, I was concerned
that maintenance would be high as it
typically is for BMW's. However, I
use an independent mechanic who has
serviced my cars for 13 years, and
this car has been a dream. The small
engine, manual trans and good handling
are a great combination for a new teen
driver while also providing some style
and "cool". What I didn't expect was
how much fun it would be or that my
wife and I would fight with our teen
over who gets to drive it.
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By Indyrob on 04/23/04 00:00 AM (PDT)
Vehicle
1997 BMW 3 Series Coupe 318is 2dr Coupe
Review
Bought this car used...Awesome
handling, good gas mileage, quiet,
excellent pick-up in 5th.
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By kyle a on 03/24/04 00:00 AM (PST)
Vehicle
1997 BMW 3 Series Coupe 318is 2dr Coupe
Review
Love the car, have lots of fun with
it.
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By Moz1Fan on 11/22/03 00:00 AM (PST)
Vehicle
1997 BMW 3 Series Coupe 318is 2dr Coupe
Review
Though it is used, it is the best car
I've ever driven. Just had it fully
serviced, and to no surprise it has NO
problems.It's never too late to drive
"The Ultimate Driving Machine".
Morrissey drives one of these, what else
can I say.
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By Juliet Brumlik on 06/06/03 00:00 AM (PDT)
Vehicle
1997 BMW 3 Series Coupe 318is 2dr Coupe
Review
This is my second 318is - both
incredible. I now also own a 540i,
and when I get back into my 318is I
marvel that it does NOT seem
dinky/underpowered
next to the 540. I tend to drive the
3 faster, as it feels zippy and
there's such a feeling of control over
the vehicle. It has the sports
suspension, which I adore - it really
does make a difference. I have the
manual transmission, and the clutch is
silky and wonderful. Visibility is
phenomenal. Great gas mileage,
reliability and safety w/this car. By
the way, this car has the best cup
holders EVER. Put a soda can in and
drive like Mario Andretti? No problem
here.
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By saltyswede on 03/29/03 00:00 AM (PST)
Vehicle
1997 BMW 3 Series Coupe 318is 2dr Coupe
Review
Took my car to S.F. BMW for a 60k check
up. I was told that the cost would be
650.
They then took of new wiperblades and
replaced them etc. alot of hidden costs.
They told me that the radiator was
leaking and said that it with
the "plastic waterpump and thermostate
housing" at a cost of 3800. I took the
car to a independent shop who informed
me that the production date of my car
indicated that it would not have the
plastic waterpump.
If you need parts for your BMW try the
Partsbin.com they sell OEM and after
market parts.
S.F. BMW OEM Radiator 385
The Partsbin OME with shiping 169
The radiators are both made by baher
and are identical.
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