Overview & Reviews

In an effort to make 3 Series ownership more affordable, BMW adds four-cylinder versions of the sedan, coupe and convertible to the lineup -- these models take the name "318." Output is rated at 134 horsepower, and a five-speed manual is the only transmission choice. Standard equipment on these cars includes antilock brakes, a driver-side front airbag, air conditioning, a cassette player and power windows, mirrors and locks. A limited-slip differential is optional, as is a sunroof on the coupe and sedan. Meanwhile, the 325i convertible now comes with a power-operated top and cross-spoke alloy wheels; additionally, it gets integrated body-color bumpers and new headlights. Note that this is your last year to get your hands on a coupe or sedan of the E30 generation, as both body styles will get a full redesign for 1992.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 40.00

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  Best Value for a Fun Car - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By Bill-B - July 28 - 12:56 am

  My previous car was a 1993 Miata, and I didnt have high expectations for this car. I was wrong. This has been my favorite car so far. The car could be called underpowered, but then again an inline six was available for more power. The only work I have done is a waterpump and the belts. The car is a great daily driver, but the 4.10 diff makes it rev high at highway speeds. I love the ride of the car, firm but comfortable. I have H&R springs, Bilstein shocks, and suspension technique swaybars. I do look to upgrade the car in the future with a Downing Atlanta Supercharger (197 whp) and stiffer springs. Overall an awesome car that has classic good looks and drives well.

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  I Love My 318is - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By Bimmerhead - June 4 - 3:30 pm

  I purchased my car from the original owner with ~68,000 miles on it in 1998. It now has 165,000 aggressive miles on it and it has proven itself to be a VERY well built, reliable, fun to drive car. It has no torque and doesnt accelerate off the line well, but once up to speed on the highway, this car is very quick. You have to learn to keep the revs up. It eats gas for a four-banger, but it loves to rev. Ive done H&R springs, Bilstein sport shocks, Hawk HP Plus pads and the car is very nimble and tossable. Its very reliable, entertaining transportation.

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  Frugal fun in the sun - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By mgold - May 6 - 1:00 pm

  Ive owned this car since 1999 and have logged 115000 on the odometer (the car is about to hit 200k). Since I got the car, its been my trusty daily driver and fun machine having taken it on several road trips (including Yosemite) and have autocrossed with it. Its also pretty frugal getting about 27 mpg in mixed driving, although due to taller gearing than its hardtop siblings, it doesnt get mileage in the low 30s like they do (the cabrio has a 4.27 final drive ratio and the sedan and coupe have a 4.10). I highly recommend any of the 91 318i models to anyone looking to get into their first BMW. Im soon retiring my car for weekend fun and buying an E36 318i for my commute.

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  Like it almost as much as my 88 535is - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By Eric - March 8 - 1:00 pm

  This is a great car, it handles like a go cart, is quick above 4000 rpms, great gas mileage, cool looks, easy to work on,g et good comments from non bimmerphiles, it is a very fun car to drive.

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  Cheap but fun. - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By Hooked on Bimmers - October 12 - 9:01 pm

  With 170,000 miles on the clock, the car needs a few items replaced like the timing chain/gears. However, the engine is known to last beyond 300K miles if taken care of. This is my daily driver and the third bimmer in the household. It maybe cheap at under $3000, but it is more fun than the other two that cost over $30K. 2600lb chassis is unbelieveably nimble in corners and 16 year old 4 cyl engine is peppy enough to pull the car fast on the freeway entrances. Look for one with good maintenance record and pay below $3000. You wont be disappointed.

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  318is will last forever - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By 318is - March 27 - 11:56 am

  I previously owned a 01 330i and Ive had more fun and enjoyment with my 91 318is. From its classic tight sports car ride on curvy roads to a high speed cruiser, I have a true gem. Ive owned Mercedes, Triumphs, FIATs, as well as all types of American cars too. My 318is is very solid and well built and should last me another 100k miles (I purchased it in May of 05 with only 91k on the odometer). I recommend this car to anyone (young and old).

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  I Love My Red Little Girl - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By JP - March 2 - 10:42 pm

  Bought this car new and have had it for 15 years. She has over 160,000 miles on her and still runs great - maybe even better than she used to. Shes a 5 speed manual and loves being driven hard. Havent had any problems-just routine maintenance issues. Shes been nothing but reliable. I would get a newer one, but theyve done away with that classic BMW. I also have an Audi A4 which I use in inclement weather due to the rear wheel drive of the BMW. But, when the roads are dry, I prefer the handling of my fun and faithful friend. After all, an automobile is about driving, and nothings beats the Ultimate Driving Machine, no matter how old.

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  Cabrio 4 ever - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By 325i Cab - January 30 - 9:02 am

  I find this car fantastic, its fun to own and drive besides minor repairs it has been very reliable and not expensive to run and maintain. It still turns heads and is almost 16 years old!!! Good style BMW. The car has a split personality and will be very docile if left to its own devices but will become a beast if you demand it of it which brings me to the only thing I could do without is the relatively flat power band until the engine speeds over 3500RPM from where it just rockets to the red line with a fantastic engine sound that just encourages you to keep your foot down. I would advise anyone interested in such a car to buy it, if in good nick, and you wont look back

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  Good, cheap way to join the BMW set... - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By QuikCash - October 26 - 5:41 am

  Bought this car on the cheap for basic transportation and have been pleasantly surprised. While the acceleration will not excite, the handling is outstanding. Stops and turns on a dime. Not a good highway cruiser in my opinion, but great around town. Car is simple enough that maintenance is a do- it-yourself affair, and parts are not too expensive. Looks great, and in my opinion has a "classic" ambiance not present in the more modern E36 3- series.

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  Affordable luxury car - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By weterb - September 4 - 8:36 pm

  Excellent acceleration, handing, fuel economy. Sounds like a symphony as it works. A car with design depth. A 15 year old car that still is up to date and still turns heads.