Used 1997 BMW 3 Series Consumer Reviews
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I'll own this car forever
drandy, 01/03/2014
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
20 of 20 people found this review helpful
I bought my 328 convertible in '99 with 11k miles, loved it for 10 years, sold it to a needy college kid for two years, and bought it back 18 months ago. With 125k miles on it, the car is still a delight to drive. Soft top is still in good shape, mechanicals are still rock solid, drive is a delight. I use a local German car specialty shop that is much less expensive than a dealership, so brakes, hoses, etc., aren't as expensive as they might be. With classic good looks and wonderful driving behavior, this car typifies, "the Ultimate Driving Machine" - I'm a BMW-owner for life. If you need to choose between a newer non-beemer or an older beemer, go with the beemer. You won't regret it!
First car
whippersnapped, 06/19/2011
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 4dr Sedan
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
This is the first car I have ever owned, although I have driven many others. In my opinion, this is as close to a perfect car as there is (which is why I bought it. A logical progression, really). I got an excellent example of the model for 4 grand, and have since put less than a thousand into it over 8,000 miles. It is just bulletproof. I have never pushed the revs to the red because the car simply doesn't need it to do whatever you need. The interior is comfortable but you can tell it was a secondary concern after performance. The car has it where it counts, and that is what matters to me.
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I'm never selling this car!
Ken, 11/16/2010
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 4dr Sedan
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
Well, I purchased this 1997 328i in 1999 as a dealer leftover that had been sitting on the lot for a very long time. I got a heck of a deal on it. I have driven it on and off for the past 11 years and when I'm not using the car, it's garaged. The black paint shines like the day I got it. The interior shows almost no signs of wear aside from the drivers floor mat. No cracking of the leather, etc. I have had NO MECHANICAL PROBLEMS whatsoever with the car in the 70,000 miles I've owned it. Aside from regular scheduled maintenance, I've replaced the brake pads and tires once and that's it. This car has proven to be the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned. I will never sell this car.
I was in shock up until writing this Review
merc272, 02/05/2012
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
15 of 16 people found this review helpful
The one word that pops to mind when i think of this car is "timeless". Its like a well maintained Italian suit, aged with beauty, but always stylish. The throttle response is a little iffy because the pedal seems to have a lengthy discussion with the engine and drive train before kicking me back in the seat. (that's what you get when you let the french design a transmission) never the less I'm never afraid to push it just a little bit more, and hit a blistering speed of 115mph on the highway before backing off the throttle. I was floored, grinning ear to ear like a little kid who had just gotten his first 22. rifle for Christmas. This is truly what a proper sports car should be.
Hidden Costs Of BMW Ownership
ACF, 03/23/2009
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
12 of 15 people found this review helpful
Look, the BMW 3 series is as about a pleasurable ride in a daily driver you can possibly get. Great road feel, great acceleration, great looks, & in the MT a superior shifting experience. However, be prepared to pay high maintenance costs, especially beyond 75k miles. I bought my '97 with 49k miles. It now has 99k, & I have put out around $7k in maintenance since. Clutch is $900, alternator is $450, ball joints are $500, water pump $400, tires (sport) $700 & brakes $300 done every other year. It has some quirky things too. LED displays (radio & odm) go dim/out, radiator necks break, coolant lever sensors go bad, paint chips/rusts way to easy. All in all a great ride, but you're gonna pay.
My Terrific ti
Joan, 06/18/2002
1997 BMW 3 Series 318ti 2dr Hatchback
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
The ti was billed as an entry into the BMW line but inappropriately aimed at college-age men. Properly marketed, it would have sold, and the new compact available here. A 63-year-old grandmother who loves to drive, I have averages 25,000 miles/year, averaging 32 mpg. Service has been excellent. I can't imagine driving anything but a BMW after owning this car. Nimble, it hugs the road, shifts like a dream, and looks and feels new after almost 100,000 miles.
Santa got it right
xmsbmw, 01/15/2009
1997 BMW 3 Series 318i 2dr Convertible
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Santa brought a 1997 red BMW 5 speed convertible to our house on Christmas morning in 2006. My wife absolutely loves this car. We took a ride along the southern half of the Blue Ridge Parkway this summer with the top down and it was an incredible trip. We have had (knock on wood) no problems and no repairs since the day we got it. All we have done in two years is change the oil. Some day the top will need to be replaced but we knew that when we got it. I compare this to a 1986 Buick "T" type I bought new that was suppose to be GM's answer to the BMW. I spent $16K on the Buick, had it 9 years and put over $17K of my own money in repairs. I now know, if you want a BMW, then buy a BMW!
A hoot
Dave Berlin, 10/15/2003
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I've enjoyed this car for 6 years. Sold a vintage jaguar, too much trouble. This car is really fun to drive and still has absolutely nothing wrong with it. (yes, we baby it a little). I look at it as a sports car that's practical. The back seat is tight but comfortable and combined with the trunk there is lots of luggage space compared to a real 2 seater. While four seats may not sound like a sports car, it doesn't matter since it looks like one and still to this day the car turns heads. 30 mpg ain't bad either.
Never want to give it up!
Fran, 04/20/2006
1997 BMW 3 Series 318ti 2dr Hatchback
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I love my baby beemer! Would not want to drive anything but a BMW since owning this car.
BMW 328ic, a very well made car
Al, 03/16/2006
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought my 328iC back in April '03. It was still fresh looking and amazing to drive given the fact that it had 50K miles on it already. I thought I'd keep it for 3 years and just move onto another car, but I love this car! I'm going to keep it for quite some time further, repairs have been non existant other than a waterpump and fan blade. I'm nearing 100K miles so its time to replace some bushings, other than that it's a solid reliable ride.
1997 Arctic Silver 328is
urban328is, 04/25/2004
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is my first car, my father bought it for me for $10k. It is Arctic Silver, fully loaded with sports package, 6 disc changer, leather, etc. It does have 132000 miles on it but they are mostly highway miles and this car still drives like it is fresh off the lot. I would highly recommend the 3-series, we have two on the driveway and couildnt be happier with them.
BMW
Bearing Engineer, 08/12/2002
updated 04/10/2003
1997 BMW 3 Series 318ti 2dr Hatchback
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
The handling of this car is exceptional and very perdictable. This car combines very good performance with good fuel economy. Interior layout is excellent.
Great Car
Buckeye Bob, 02/17/2004
1997 BMW 3 Series 318ti 2dr Hatchback
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great car. Handling is excellent, fun to drive, decent acceleration with 5 speed, fit and finish is perfect.
Be ware of your local BMW shop
saltyswede, 03/29/2003
1997 BMW 3 Series 318is 2dr Coupe
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
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.
Best car I ever owned.
James 328is, 06/16/2002
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
There is not one bad thing I can say about this car except that oil changes are a bit pricy. Bmw seriously rock. This is literally the best car I have ever owned, and I have owned many. Nothing compares to the quality and reliability and comfort of bmw.
BMW 318ti Hatchback
M&C, 03/24/2002
1997 BMW 3 Series 318ti 2dr Hatchback
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive. Lots of zip. Holds lots of cargo.
1997 328i Sedan
camenta, 11/10/2003
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have already run over 1,500 miles on this car and it has been everything I wxpected it to be. Used to have a 1991 318i and liked everything about that. This is that and more. The car pulls hard off the line and can still turn it on in 5th gear. I don't like that I have to hunt a factory CD player down (fits using a Z3 factory unit)and the cost of the CD is very high. With that said, nothing else to complain about. Smooth, fun and full of style. A must have for the driving fan.
BMW fans unite
Constant Car Shopper, 08/12/2007
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Even before I got my driver's license I wondered why people payed a premium for BMWs. I openly criticized, but secretly wanted one. Now that I own one there is no doubt that the BMW 3 series is a car driver's dream. I test drove my current vehicle almost as a lark and wound up buying it on the spot. Much like other reviewers this car makes me glad to get up everyday to drive this car to work. So far the maintenance on this vehicle has been no more than other cars I have owned. I bought this car with almost 100,000 miles on it and would love to put 100,000 more on it.
A lot of car for the money
fritz, 11/09/2009
1997 BMW 3 Series 318is 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
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.
Perfectly Balanced
Johnnyboy7, 09/14/2002
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My favorite car of all time. I even once owned a '95 M3, but the 328is returns about 92% of the performance of its more viral cousin. And the cost of ownership is considerably less. I have spent no more than $1,000 (including a new battery, and that's it. I have 52,000 trouble-free miles. Best of all, I am never board when I'm driving this car! I always enjoy my drive to work. It is truly made for people who actually like to drive; it is the anti- SUV!!!!
This car is a monster on the road
Randy Buchanan, 02/08/2019
1997 BMW 3 Series 318i 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great for a college student. Great for car shows. Great gas mileage. I haven't any in car shows. Can be improved for the individual driver. Classical in it class. Mechanically cheaper to do yourself. Great power for a 4 cylinder engine. The 5/speed manual transmission is a beast of any transmission I ever came across. Great car to keep in the family.
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Best ride I've owned
Jeffy347, 07/26/2004
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought this car knowing I would be driving a ton. Also, a bit of a rebound from previous marriage. It is an investment that has paid great dividends to my state of mind. No offense to my counselor - but for the same price, this vehicle offers similar solace :-) Bought with 99k,Trouble free to 107k in two months. I am concerned with a sluggish passenger window - auto up feature is sometimes sporadic - also passenger power lock has quit. I am sure it is a quick fix though. And smaller a price for sure than the 95 Audi 90 I owned this time last year. I am betting the Bimmer will not disappoint as much as that money pit! Long story short BMW Rocks!
Practical BMW
RHartounian, 09/12/2006
1997 BMW 3 Series 318i 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have always loved BMWs. This one is not any less of a BMW. It has good handling and good torque in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th gear. I wish it had a sixth gear. This car has a very tight gear ratio so in the 5th gear at 80 mph the engine is begging for another gear. Too bad! The glove compartment is really poor, though. Everything you place inside, it keeps rolling out. I love the E30 glove box much more. I hate the vinyl interior. BMW is probably one of the only luxury car manufacturers that still makes vinyl seats. In the summer months it's an oven in there. One common problem with this car that cannot be fixed is the climate control. Overall it's a good car.
My favorite car by my favorite manufacturer...BMW!
Aimee Jason, 08/31/2015
updated 09/04/2018
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
This car makes car number 7 for me. I have loved BMW cars for as long as I can remember and my all-time favorite car...period...is the BMW X5 since its market debut. But this BMW..my NuNu...which is her name...is THE BEST CAR I have yet to own. I purchased this car in December 2014....because I needed a car...and of course it was a BMW. I use to sell cars, so needless to say I got her for a great deal. And what a total blessing she has been to me. I knew she needed a new convertible top....no biggie! And her top coat is peeling a lil...no biggie! But how does she run is what I NEEDED to know! And let me just say....Amazing! From day one...it was love at first sight...then true love at first drive. Buy one...if you see it...grab it!!! Seriously! And she had 169k miles on her...and we are now going on 175k....and all I've needed...thus far (knocking on wood!) was an oil change...windshield wipers...and a tire due to a nail! I do take her to the BMW dealer....the best service too by the way...Otto's BMW in West Chester, PA....I love those folks. When she leaves there after an oil change....all clean and smelling good....she purrrrrrsss! As if to say....Thank You!!! I only put premium gas in her....Shell V-Tech w/Nitro....also the best...in my car...nothing is too good! IJS And this is just for say.... This car is my first import, black car, convertible, coupe, rear-wheel drive, and sports car....but my BEST car first and for most. And that's how she got her name... NuNu...cause she is very Nu to me in so many different ways as an owner. Thanks for reading...and pay attention to the reviews on this car....cause they are true to life! #BMWGIRL #BMW4LIFE #ULTIMATEDRIVINGMACHINE
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Ageless
neils1, 10/02/2011
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
8 of 22 people found this review helpful
Though now nearly 15y ears old,it has features that most new cars still don't have. Handling is very good, takes corners at 30 mph though not recommeneded for safety reasons. 0-60 in under 7 seconds, still good by even today's standards, very good in the late 90s. Steering is well balanced, not heavy oe too light. My 04 Infinity feels like a tank in comparison sterring wise. Car feels very solid, though it moves athletically. Everything is expensive to repair, but the engine itself is very solid-no oil leaks, shakes, overheating, stalling in the 3 years I have had it (purchased at 100k miles).
Incomparable car for its time
Johnny in NY, 07/01/2009
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The 1997 328i was my first German car and well, they've made a convert of me. My experience with this car, despite its age was extraordinary. The handling was like nothing I had experienced until then, even surpassing cars 10 years younger. Mechanically, I never once had a problem with anything, save a brake replacement, but that was due to my driving more than anything else. My praises for this car are too many to list, but it does come with a few warnings. 1. The car is very reliable, but expensive to maintain and repair. 2. The cup holders are useless. 3. The car handles very poorly in snow and ice, as is to be expected from any RWD car. Do not be mistaken though, the BMW is amazing.
My forever Beemer! 1997 40k CURE!
C.J. Sassy, 07/21/2019
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My x-fiance bought this car for me to drive. Special ordered the exact one I saw in a magazine. She is Calypso red, beigh leather interior, 5 sp manual. Loaded, sport, traction, harmon cardom CD player. I put 9k on her. The relationship didn't last, with the fiance. He took the beemer when we split. He was going to trade her for the 7 series. I paid him cash for the trade in price. What a DEAL for me! I put the 9k on her, she was close to 60k brand new. I have been diagnosed with blood cancer/2016. She's been stored. I was thinking of trading in my Nissan & the beemer, to get one vehicle. This BMW is more reliable that any vehicle I've ever owned! YES. I was out of my mind, NO way will I ever sell her! I love this car! After reading the reviews, I'm going to hit the road. There's no cure for the blood cancer. I have treatments down. The rest is attitude. I am 100% positive, Once I get her detailed, (a labor of love), she is in perfect shape. PERFECT condition. Original paint, no scratches or dings, leather is perfect, I'll recondition it, no cracks or tearing. I'll replace belts. I hadn't planned on storing her this long. The blood "c" took me by surprise! Leather still smells new. No accidents. She's going to lift my spirits HIGHER and HIGHER! I cannot wait to get behind the Ultimate Driving Machine! I am Woman, hear me ROAR! i will never sell this gorgeous, clean mean driving machine! Yippiee! Oh, she now has 40k, not even broken in YET🌹💪🌹
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It's a Keeper!
Robert, 08/11/2009
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am the second owner of this car. It had 35250 miles when I bought it and now 2 1/2 years later I've only put 2000 miles on it. It was special ordered with the Dakar Yellow that was only available in the M series that year. So...to me it's pretty rare. I keep it covered in the garage and rarely drive it. It always turns heads whenever I take it out. Most of the ones like this are beat. I plan on having it forever. I love this car!
This is one kicking car.
John Sullivan, 04/09/2003
1997 BMW 3 Series 318i 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Coming from a car history of teh 1980's this car is awesome. I have driven explorers,a nd Durango's but I love this car. 1985 BMW 524td (yes a Diesel) 1989 Volvo 240 GL Bow my 1997 E36 (318i) and I love it. Fun, zuppy, great mileage and its supposed to all be recyclable. Kudos BMW. Save the World.
Highly Recommend This Car
Juliet Brumlik, 06/06/2003
1997 BMW 3 Series 318is 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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.
Joy to own
carski7, 04/23/2003
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've loved driving this car all year round sun, rain, and snow!! Biggest problem was ball joints every 20k mi seemed to be due to lack of rotating tires soon enough and abusive Detroit roads. Now all OK. Radio and Climate just stopped working--cert pre owned warranty was good!
My baby
baby, 11/23/2009
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car with 60K on it whom ever owned it prior to myself didn't take as good of care as I do. If it rains it stays in the garage. I need a new top and the driver's door panel, but with danian suspension and cold air induction this car makes 31.6mpg it is a standard shift and I cannot say enough about it. Needs a new top and secondary air cooler but still an awesome baby handles great and turns heads. It has a spoiler on the rear black with black top tan interior. I have worked hard on the paint and it looks very good these days. I am in love!
My bmw
rjs5689, 11/20/2002
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my BMW used in 1999 from westchester BMW and ever since i have loved it. It has been a nlast to drive offereng exelent comfort and preformance. i have heated seats and the sport package.
Still the ultimate driving machine.
johnbmw328, 06/01/2004
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The car handles like no other. Haven driven many other types of cars, BMW is the most fun. It gives me a sense of security while driving, and for that I would pay any price. Yes, the cost is high for repairs but all good things do not come without a price. Find a reliable mechanic. Avoid the dealership.
Truly the "Ultimate"
H328i, 06/23/2004
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
When we had the second child, my wife suggested I get rid of my truck for a "family" car. With the only requirements to be an automatic and a 4-door I set out to find my new wheels, trying like mad to avoid a mini van at all costs. Missing my old sports car from high school and tired of seeing everyone in Camrys and Accords, I wanted different and unique. I found this 328i to be just the cure for the "midlife" and still making the wife happy for the rare transports of the kids. This car is awseome. Sometimes the best part of the workday is the drive to and from work. BMW is the Ultimate Driving Machine.
BMW for life
bmwdan22, 05/15/2007
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car has been amazing for the entire time I have owned it. The only major problem I have had with it is that the top stopped working after being jammed. It has lasted over 170,000 miles and still drives better than most cars on the road. I will only own a BMW.
Best All Around Car
jbarnstrow, 11/23/2002
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Auto Tranny, but still has plenty of power for the twisties. Carries four without the usual coupe cramp.
Ultimate Driving Machine
gdevinney, 01/06/2003
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Love this car more than any I have EVER had. The only bad thing is I will never settle for less.
328 is Coupe Rocks
ChuckS, 05/04/2002
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a great vehicle-the last really good looking 3 series before the "rounded new look" that BMW recently came up with. The 328 IS has a muscle type look to it. This car is so much fun to drive! 0 to 60 in 6+ So quiet on the freeway. They will be sought after in years to come.
70,000 trouble-fee miles
crazy4blues, 02/27/2005
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new 7 1/2 years ago, and have thoroughly enjoyed it. The handling is very neutral, and spirited driving is always fun--never "scary." I've never had any major issues with this car. Onramps are great fun, and I get about 28 mpg on the highway. 18 mpg City. It has started every morning and has never left me stranded. I have replaced the battery, the front brakes (rotors and pads), an AC module, and the water pump (as a precaution). While I have left it completely stock, this is a great platform for suspension upgrades and engine mods (CAI, Exhaust, Chip, etc.). I would definitely buy this car again.
The car is older and the driver is wiser
Laura, 12/07/2008
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love my 328i, but it costs, financially and physically, to maintain it! So far I have had to replace the radiator, radiator fluid tank, fuel pump, drive and ac belts, wiper motor, and thermostat (and I am only the second owner!). My dad, who loves to and can fix anything, HATES working on my car, but he does it reluctantly. It's too low to the ground to fit a normal jack under it, you need odd-sized tools, and the lay out under the hood is way to complicated. But I guess thats the price you pay for a lasting vehicle.
Great handling, excellent value
mdriver, 05/17/2004
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is a very fun car. It has acceptable fuel economy in my opinion and has very good build quality. Easy to maintain if you like to work on the car yourself, though dealer visits can get very expensive very quickly.
BMW review
bjackson, 06/25/2002
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
1 of 10 people found this review helpful
This car has not only great styling but handles extremely well. I have had little problem and have had it in the shop for only minor adjustment during the three years that I have owned.
Better than all the vette's I have had
New BMW Fan, 11/04/2003
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car handles better than any car I have previously owned, including several corvettes. The car is quick, light, solid, and hugs the curves like no other car. The car has a classy look and feel while providing exceptional performance and fuel economy. This car makes me yearn for the next level BMW convert('04 M3). If this 7-year old car drives this well, I can't imagine what the latest M-3 model can do.
Birthday present!
D Sarge, 04/28/2005
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I received the 328I as a birthday gift. Now, for those of you married folks reading this, that translates into my wife letting me buy it:) I have had the vehicle just over a month. The dealer was so confident in the vehicle, he sold a 2 year, UNLIMITED MILEAGE warranty with it (just to be on the safe side, as I've heard horror stories as well). So far, the only thing I purchased was wheel locks and window tint. The vehicle has been incredible to drive, and that is on the 89 octane (note: later models require premium fuel). Gas mileage ranges 21-25, but that's likely due to always pushing the 5-speed. This will be the first of a few updates, as I own the vehicle. So far, 2 thumbs up!
Bmw analysis after a year
BMWExpert, 11/30/2003
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The handling of the 3 series is superb to say the least! When driving the car you feel every inch of the road! It's fantastically responsive and has great pickup and torque/horse ratio. However; parts are very expensive and will put a dent in your wallet. It's not the mechanical parts that go; it's the very unreliable electrical ones. Unfortunately, BMW's more current cars are overloaded with un-needed and extremely flimsy and unreliable, electronic components. To further dismay, most of these components are incredibly expensive to repair/replace and will put a dent in your wallet.
How Soon Is Now?
Moz1Fan, 11/22/2003
1997 BMW 3 Series 318is 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Reliability and performance over-rated
Brian Johnson, 08/25/2002
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I overestimated the BMW brand when I bought my 97 328i. The exterior design is distinctly BMW and it is a great "image" car for young professionals. The biggest challenge is reliability... hundreds of sensors constantly break and any visit to the shop will run at least $300. If you are going to buy one anyway - pass on the Inspection I and II checkups - which are serious waste of money. Overall, performance was less than stellar. I actually had more fun with my 97 Acura Integra, which really surprised me.
Unreal
Techie, 07/22/2005
1997 BMW 3 Series 328i 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Used cars have been the routes Ive taken over the last 12 years. I have been driving Saabs for a long time and I decided to make the change over this time to BMW. I've always wanted one so this was a nice car to add to my collection. I bought the car with 112,000 miles. Its been serviced accurate which makes all the difference. The car is still extremely tight inside and out, like it came off the show room floor. I've been dazzled how it grabs the curves asphalt. I highly recommend purchasing a used BMW as an alternate to a less reliable and not near as fun to drive new car of any kind. The power band is perfect. Shifting gears is a must for the full enjoyment of what this car can offer.
Just can't get enough of it!
BMW Boy, 02/08/2004
1997 BMW 3 Series 328is 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love this car! I did research for months and compared it to many other cars that are 'similar'. This one took the cake, and I test drove tons of other cars. Make sure you get the sports package and Harmon Kardon Sound. I've done a few engine modifications for more horses, and now I've beat plenty of Mustang GT's and others like it!