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 1 through 10 of 40.00

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  love my red - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By ragtopper - March 6 - 8:55 pm

  Almost didnt buy this sweet little car, then the dealer dropped the price, so I took a closer look. Car had no working ac, was dripping oil like crazy, and had steering wheel wobble. I took a leap of faith and went for it. I went to work on the ac problem first preparing myself for the first big bimmer bill. It was missing a 12 buck belt. Then I tackled the oil leak. Loose bolts attaching the oil pan. Tightened them up and it hasnt leaked a drop since. Steering wheel vibration was caused by someone adding aftermarket momo wheels and not using hub centric spacer rings with the rotor extensions. This car currently has 198k miles and just flat out drives and corners like a dream. Love it.

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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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  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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  Its an above average car - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By Timmy T - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I got the car with 95k miles. It now has 110k on it. I have replaced the 1 of the 2 fuel pumps, the lower ball joint on the passenger side, and a new front passenger door. I hopped a curb and hit a tree in the winter, the front wheel was barely pushed back, so now the car drifts to the right. The ABS still works! :). It needs brakes, which im neglecting to do, regardless this car stops and turns on a dime. The engine however makes a funny "buzzing" noise which i havent had looked at yet. The oil smells gasy as well.

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  A Fantastic Car - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By BMW123456789 - September 15 - 2:00 am

  This is one of the best examples of an introduction line. While the car it self may not have the power of the 325 it is an incredible joy to drive. The car handles like its on rails and it sings when the revs are high.

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  What a car! - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By Modelengine1 - August 12 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my 325I for over 6 months and have loved everything about it. Its a blast to drive, and it has more style than most newer cars on the road. Most people ask me if its only a couple years old! I have had to replace a transmission sensor, but beyond that I have had no problems. BMWs are expensive to fix, but for the amount of performance, luxury, and pure enjoyment, they are well worth every penny spent.

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  I like my Cabrio - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By John Jackie - February 12 - 2:00 am

  My wife and I purchased a 325 cabriolet last year and could not be more happy. The only repairs after putting 15,000 miles on the car have been the brakes and a oil change. I asked her if there is anything we would change on the car and she answered which I agree with is only one thing the wind noise when the top is up on the freeway. Since it is not overall fast around town the car encourages you to drive within the speed limits (a good thing). We had a Saab 900 turbo convertable prior and this car is much more refined overall. The quality is tremendous. We plan to keep this car for many years to come.

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  Its a keeper - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By fladoc - December 21 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my 1991 318is in 1991, as my first BMW. I enjoyed the performance, although my driving style is far from pushing a car. The BMW 318is attracted me because of the small size yet interior room and seating for four. The car is now 12 years old and still looks like new and runs great. I found a local German machanic who did all the service beyond what was covered by the warrenty.

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  A-1, for sure! - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By Pt775 - August 28 - 2:00 am

  This is a very nice car, no doubt about it. But sometimes I find my self lacking that extra boost of power when needing to switch lanes or merge, but I will put in a chip in 2 weeks. Dont get me wrong the car is fine as is, but I want that extra 35hp. Aside from that this car is all you need! This car is a VERY fun drive. I had a 1990 525i, and I still prefer this 318iS.

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  318is - A definite YES! - 1991 BMW 3-Series
  By catseye - August 5 - 2:00 am

  I am an autocrosser/Time Trialer who recently bought a 318is for street/event use. I LOVE IT!! It doesnt have the power of my wifes 325, but it is 200+ lbs. lighter, and feels more nimble and responsive to the touch. I think in most kinds of competitive events, the 318is will hold its own against most others. A real thrill to drive!!