Noob to BMW's
 

Alright so i have finally decided that i want to get a BMW. I have narrowed my choice down to a e36 328i or 328is(havent decided yet). I am completley new to bmw's so im not to good on knowing what to look for when i go and look at one. I have a few questions i would like answered:

What year would you reccommend i get?
Are there any specific years to look out for(b/c of issues or waht not)?
What things should i look for what i go and take on for a testdrive?
Are there any websites or anything i can go to learn more about BMW's since i am brand new to them.

Any ohter info or inputs you might want to give me that would help would be great.

Thanks

Do you want a 4 door or a 2 door?
The iS might be more to insure....

There is a list of common problems with the e36. Should be somewhere around the tech forum..

It depends on how much you can afford.

But all else aside, I recommend the 328is, 5 speed manual. The latest year you can afford, last year if possible (1999).

It all depends on what you want to do. Do you plan on modifying the car at all? ie. supercharger or engine work. If you plan on doing any engine modifications, I would highly recommend staying with an OBD1 engine which is pre-'95. 1996 model year was an OBDII engine which requires flashing the DMU for any engine upgrades. Much more difficult. If do not plan on modifying the car, then I agree with the upper thread, purchase as new as your money can afford.

The only difference between the 325i and 325is is the Sport package - which I highly recommend. Gives you stiffer springs and suspension pieces for spirited driving. Definately get a 5 speed manual - the auto's of that vintage was not very strong. I've gone through two auto trannys and am swapping for a 5 speed.

Other than that, BMW's engine's are very strong and should give you a couple hundred thousand miles of driving as long as you take care of them.

As far as websites, go to Bimmerforums.com which will provide a wealth of information concerning BMW's.

Cheers,

One more thing, welcome to the club.

http://www.unitedbimmer.com/kb-e36-c...faults-faq.php

the aforementioned common problems thread. also has pre-purchase inspection info.