Buying a 318is / end 92

[stsaul]

Hi, i am a keen buyer of a BMW 318is. I went car hunting over the weekend and came across a dealer selling a 318is - end 92 for $25k. I would really be appreciative if I could get some help from this forum.

Questions -

1. What do I need to look out for when sealing this deal? - mileage, interior, exterior
2. What would be required to ''restore'' the car; any particular extent of servicing? Any estimates on the costs?
3. Are there any unique problems to the 318is?
4. Cost of insurance?
5. Where would be a good recommendation to bring my ride in for servicing?

I understand that a lot would depend on the current state of the car, but an estimate would help a great deal......

Details about myself -

- 28 yrs old
- 1st time car owner (I'm a biker)
- Licence since 98

Thanks a lot for your help. Very much appreciated.

Last thing - the dealer told me that this is the 1st batch of 318is, thus its the 'best & most powerful'. Any comments?

 

[GTV6]

Re: Buying a 318is / end 92

Last thing - the dealer told me that this is the 1st batch of 318is, thus its the 'best & most powerful'.

The dealer obviously told you part of the story...yes, it's the first batch of E36 318iS and there are some caveats-
Pre '93 M42 engines are prone to profile gasket leak. Though it would most likely have been rectified.

It's definitely not the most powerful. Post 94 318iS is endowed with a overbored(1.9L) M42 engine that puts out more low down torque albeit the same power.

Dont forget to do a search in the net to learn more....

 

[ethane]

Re: Buying a 318is / end 92

My mechanic said that 318iS can be modified (with a super charger/ turbo). Plus, the feedback that i get from the ground is that 318iS is definitely less problematic than the normal 318. Check the condition of the air-flow meter, leakage, etc (just in case )

But if budget is not a problem, why not go for a 320i instead ? The best 320i that i ever drove was the E30 .... but sadly, there are not many around these days.

 

[iScoupe]

Re: Buying a 318is / end 92

I am driving the 92' 318iS coupe manual for 4yrs, very good & powerful NA car to drive, think my condition is one of the best in town kekekekekeee... but 25K is very cheap for a dealer price maybe got some problem liao..