Re: Buying a 2nd Hand 3 Series
Definitely go for 323 as it's an IL-6 and 2.5L if you can afford it and i hear it's more reliable.
The 320 engine which is an inline-4 is ultra sensitive, and is quite well known for all sorts of engine leaks / water leaks / so wear and tear costs is quite high. Engine issues aside, you have to look at potential auto gearbox issues, etc.
There are alot of 320's in the market but most are in need of quite alot of maintenance to bring it up to running specs, so you have to choose carefully.
One dealer told me before when buying BMW, when given a choice, buy the unit that has a full servicing record (i.e. hard copy paper), compared to one that doesn't have.
Even that i suggest you bring your intended target (320/323) to a BMW specialist such as Munich Auto (AD), BVO, or R2D to get it assessed properly. STA / Vicom cannot tell you specific BMW problems to look out for as they are not specialist in this make.
Finally, i am driving a 320i and loves the car for the way it handles, drives, and the safety i feel in it. However, i have been there, done that, and spend quite alot to maintain it so this may not what everyone is looking for - esp most of us that have come from Japanese ownership previously.
Hope this helps
vexxus;924346 said:
Hi Guys,
Any advise on selection between pre LCI 320 & 323..?
Am in the midst of sourcing my first beemer, prefer 323 but its really not a lot options available. Whereas 320 got too many till dunno which to choose.
If you can choose your ride again, will you take 320 or 323? Also, whats the difference in FC?
Thanks & regards.