'99 328i 5 Speed Opinions

[Ray325i]

Hi All,

I've just discovered this board and am thoroughly enjoying reading all the BMW related banter!

I drive a 1987 325i 2dr E30, with 250 000km on the clock and still going strong .

I have a opportunity to acquire a 1999 model 328i E46, it looks to be in an excellent condition, and the price is pretty good.... My only concern is that it has done almost 190 000km (the current owner has a 110km round trip commute every day - no city driving).

I would like to hear board members' comments on this particular model, as well as any experience with high mileage cars..... Will the new Vanos engine give the same trouble free service as my old M20 six ??

BTW - I'm keeping the E30 as a daily driver - the E46 will be strictly for "high days & holidays"

Thanks,


Ray

 

[Ray325i]

Hello ....... Anybody out there ?????....... anybody????

 

[codex57]

Err, can anyone convert the KM into miles? I've heard of E46 models getting well over 100,000 in miles if they were cared for properly. That's pretty much your major concern. Not just following BMW's schedule, but doing preventive maintenance. For example, BMW claims lifetime status on a number of fluids when you should have changed them periodically if you planned on keeping the car for a long period of time.

 

[Ray325i]

1 Mile = 1.6km : 190 000km = 118750 Miles. The car is an ex company car, so had all its services done by the dealer.

Good point about the "sealed for life" fluids..... If I get the car I'll definately get the gearbox and differential oil changed.

Thanks

Ray

 

[codex57]

That's not too bad. If it's cheap and nothing is really wrong with it, there are no major problems that come to mind. Just change those fluids and check out the gearbox to make sure it isn't too worn.