Overview & Reviews

Traction control and heated side mirrors are now standard across the line. Additionally, all cars receive minor styling revisions to the grille and rear fascia, as well as in the cockpit.

• Great steering, top-notch suspension, and nice exterior styling.

• Spartan interior and cramped passenger compartment.

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 70.00

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  Truly The Ultimate Driving Machine - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By G Man - July 7 - 2:00 am

  This is an excellent overall car. The cargo capacity is excellent, while the car is well balanced and handles like a dream. Mine is equipped with the sport package, which is a must have, as well as a 5-speed manual transmission. While repairs can be costly, most are relativly simple and can be done in your own garage at a huge savings. For example, I did my own plugs for 30 bucks, and it took abut an hour.

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  Highly Recommend This Car - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By Juliet Brumlik - June 6 - 2:00 am

  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 theres 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.

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  Joy to own - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By carski7 - April 23 - 2:00 am

  Ive 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!

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  This is one kicking car. - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By John Sullivan - April 9 - 2:00 am

  Coming from a car history of teh 1980s this car is awesome. I have driven explorers,a nd Durangos 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.

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  Be ware of your local BMW shop - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By saltyswede - March 29 - 2:00 am

  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.

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  Fun Drive Insane Maintenance - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By cestrada - March 25 - 2:00 am

  Bought our 328i coupe certified 3 years ago with 49,500 miles on it. Within 1 year, "certified" didnt cover the frnt brakes ($495)or back brakes ($520). Rock marks on hood were covered with touch-up paint that washed away after 6 mos. It looked so bad that we replaced the hood for $350. On-board computer and Check Engine lights come on = $50 co-pay just to have it looked at. We have put about $2600 in maintenance into this car, not including oil changes. With $5000 down pmt and $300 per month payments, that is just too much money to spend for three years. Lease is up next week and we are not buying because I cant handle more maintenance costs.

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  Driving Fun Except The Repair Bills - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By Ron E. - February 25 - 2:00 am

  We bought our 328i used with 44K miles after having it checked out by BMW shop. The driving experience is beautiful with all the power I think is necessary. The automatic is flawless in it smoothness. The engine begs to be driven. The greatest drawback to this car is the repair bills which seem to happen far too often. Parts are not cheap!!!!! Do not buy this model or brand of car unless you can get a warranty from BMW. $1500 worth of service each year is obscene, particularly in the days of Acuras, Passats and Lexus. I will miss the driving experiance, but my retirement will not, Im afraid, allow another BMW in my life!

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  Ultimate Driving Machine - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By gdevinney - January 6 - 2:00 am

  Love this car more than any I have EVER had. The only bad thing is I will never settle for less.

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  Best All Around Car - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By jbarnstrow - November 23 - 2:00 am

  Auto Tranny, but still has plenty of power for the twisties. Carries four without the usual coupe cramp.

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  My bmw - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By rjs5689 - November 20 - 2:00 am

  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.