1998 BMW 3-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.68/5 Average
65 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

BMW swaps out the four-cylinder engine in the 318 coupe and convertible for a 168-horsepower 2.5-liter inline six -- these cars become the 323is coupe and 323i convertible (why it's "323" and not "325," we'll never know). Meanwhile, the 318i sedan and 318ti hatchback continue on unchanged. All cars get standard side airbags this year, except the 318ti, on which they are optional.

Pros:
  • One of our all-time favorite cars. Carves turns faster than your dad carves Thanksgiving turkey.
Cons:
  • Price is a bit steep. Interior is a bit cramped.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 65.00
  • 1998 BMW 328i sedan manual - 1998 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    The BMW 3 Series is the best balance of luxury, sport, comfort, fun to drive and style. No other small sedan comes close. No other front engine, manual transmission RWD sedans are currently available. I get 21 MPG around town and two road trips of 33 MPG driving 80+ MPH. Other have mentioned reliability issues. In the 4+ years I have owned it, all I have done is oil changes, brake pads and tires. This has been the most reliable car I have owned (Ive had 20+ cars). It still looks and drives like a new car after 11 years and 95k miles.

  • The Absolute Perfect Machine - 1998 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I cannot complain about many things about this car. My favorite part, performance, is exceptional for a 6 cylinder. The throttle is responsive and the pick-up and 1st, 2nd and even 3rd gear will push you into your seat, even the exhaust has a subtle growl. The ergonomics of the car are perfect. Radio controls, air conditioning controls, gearshift, blinker, headlight switch, seat adjustments... Everything is perfectly placed. The integrity of the interior materials is superb. The leather is strong and the stitching doesnt break. The interior is very beautiful and the exterior of the car is stunning. You have to drive one to see how many heads turn as you drive by.

  • Great used car to drive - 1998 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Speaking as original owner,with 102k mi. Its a very nice and engineer vehicle! Love to drive all the time. I would recommend as great used car!

  • Awesome - 1998 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I purchased this car to drive to and from work but I drive it all the time! Gas mileage is the best, getting 34 MPG and this car is 10 years old!

  • 1998 BMW 3 Series - 1998 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Bought my Black 328i in 2000. 2nd owner it was a lease vehicle. I have been a naughty owner and have only changed the oil, rotors, brake pads, brake sensors & tires for the most part. I put TVs in the head rests, Chrome 18" rims w/z-rate tires and a kicking stereo system in addition to the HK system that included a tv in the radio as well. Ive driven this car through out Germany, Belgium, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, and from coast to coast (in the US. The tint came in handy) plenty of times and never has it stranded me. I had a problem with the acceleration in auto and would have to drop down to manual but it still never starnded me and continued to out perform other vehicles.

  • This Is A Real Car - 1998 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Whenever I think of a car for the rest of my life, it will be a BMW. Ive had this car for one month and the ride is unbelievable. The tranny shifts so freaking smooth youll think its an autostick. Mine has 72,000 miles right now, and I swear it drives like brand new. It takes windy roads like its on tracks, and Ive already hit triple digits on the highway twice without noticing unitl I looked down at my speedometer! I think that shows that Ive really been driving the heck out of this thing, and Im still averaging around 25 miles to the gallon over 30 when Im on flat highway. I think Hondas and Toyotas and Nissans are great cars, but after a BMW, Ill never be able to drive one again.

  • Always wanted one - 1998 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Always wanted a 5 series wagon, but when this came available I couldnt help myself. Other than being very slow off the line this is the best driving vehicle I have ever owned. This car is so smooth at highway speeds (and faster!!), that I cant wait to take long road trips. Have only had it for a few months, so cant say much about reliability other than I am not afraid to drive this car long distances.

  • Fun - 1998 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    The best thing about this car is that it is fun... cornering is exceptional, handling very predictable. Truly enjoyable... california sunroof rare and makes the car even more unique.

  • My first bmw - 1998 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    The car is fantastic...when its fixed. When I first bought the car it was all right, but when the warrantee ended, I was forced to go fix the car. Cooling problems, electrical problems, I probably spent over 10gs of repairs and upgrades to the car. I love the car but the repairs for it are a...you know what. And the car is awful in winter, but that could be fixed with newer winter tires.

  • SPORTS CAR QUALITY BUILT - 1998 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    The biggest thrill is with the top down. Very little wind in the front seat. All the great accesories are included with the car. Very well built and low maintenance car. Great gas mileage. This is my second BMW and it wont be the last. The car handles great and has good acceleration. The only draw back is there isnt much room in the back seat. This is a great car.

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