Used 1996 BMW 3 Series Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Love this car!!!!!
Fun Fun Fun....when I drive something else it feels very clumsy... this car has spoiled me! Car is 8 years old, I have owned it for five years and have had to do only normal wear and tear repairs and maintenance. Very zippy, great gas mileage. Back seat is a little small (can't fit a baby seat or large/tall adults) but the hatch back and folding seats provide lots of cargo space when needed! I don't think I will ever part with this car!
Awsome Vehicle
I bought the car used, in great condition, and I fell in love with it immediately. The interior is still in great shape, I haven't had any problems with it mechanically, and it is a pleasure to drive. The acceleration is unbelievable, it handles wonderfully, and the interior features work like a charm.
Fun Ragtop!
Purchased this vehicle for top down springtome fun...it lives up to my expectations. It could have more power but looks awesome even standing still. The E36 body style is still the best looking 3 series made! My second 96 3 (other was a 328ia). These vehicles epitomize what BMW should still be...fun, sporty, stylish cars. The new BMWs (except the Z) seem to look like they're built for old people.
going strong
I've had my 318ti for 6 years and it was the best purchase. It's 8 years old now and has 104,000 miles and is still going strong. It is mechanically sound and I haven't had any problems, just regular maintenance. The biggest thing to go was the fuel pump (not bad @ 98K miles). I've taken many road trips (thanks to all the room available when the back seats are folded down) and have driven on many upaved roads and it handled well.
Fun, but not worth it
Great fun to drive, but at what cost? The car is in constant need of mechanical attention. The check engine and brake light sensors are constantly on, the electrical system is full of glitches, and everything started falling apart once it got past warranty (not that the warranty covered much anyway). If you are considering a used 3, find one with extremely low mileage or factor in several thousand dollars for repairs within the first few years.