Re: e30/ 318/325 buying questions

["David Bobanick" <nharvest@xxxxxxxxx>]

We bought an 85 325e a little more than a year ago as a replacement for a
2002 some guy creamed at an unmarked intersection.  I've had an ongoing
battle with the car running hot, particularly this past summer.  Replaced
the water pump, thermostat and fan clutch and am not convinced we've solved
the problem.  The car we bought purchased in Germany and brought to the US
(recarro seats, all the pleasant accoutrements).

While the e has a straight-six, it's not speedy.  (There is a digester who
makes scurrilous remarks about squirrels for an engine in these cars)  It is
very comfortable on the highway with plenty of passing power and gets great
mileage (33-35 mpg) even at a steady 75 mph.  It is also nimble in city
traffic, and parts seem readily available.  I haven't spent any time in the
4 cyl 318's but would assume the low reving 6 in the eta might be more
durable in the long run.   Having driven friend's SAAB's, Volvo's, Honda's
and Audi's, I much prefer the BMW.

I concur with other readers:  check those rear light gaskets.  The car
routes water from the roof to the trunk right down past the rear lights.  We
had a very wet trunk last winter until I replaced the gaskets ($9.00 at the
dealer).  that fixed the problem immediately.  It also seems to be a fine
car in the snow as long as you have good treads.

Good luck with your purchase!

David Bobanick
Resource Development Manager
Northwest Harvest
http://www.northwestharvest.org
Fighting Hunger in Washington Since 1967

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