I own 2 e36 BMWs. I didn't buy them because they are practical in this day in age. I bought them because they are so much fun to drive. And The Styling is timeless.
@@Jonathan-tb6fm it can be done and more. My 93 325is, is powered by built 3L M50, with Eaton m122h supercharger. And with brake and suspension modifications, it's a real serious track weapon.
The styling on the BMW E36 is known as "Dolphin"" super looking and if looked after will give DECADES of great service, my 1994 has broken down twice in 22 years (of me owning) owing to squirrel attack apparently on a pipe! Then I changed jobs so no probs since. My M6 hit the road after 6 years and the E36 is my keeper now.
Do it. You will keep it forever. I taught my kids to drive in my E30 ragtop 5 speed. Now they buy used Mazda 3 manuals instead of the retarded throwaway cars their friends drive.
The pros really outweigh the cons imo... I bought mine with 300k km on the clock, had the bodywork done, brakes upgraded and now I'm on engine maintenance and mods. E36s are super fun to drive and worth every penny!
We bought this car because of the 90’s look, the smell, the vibration, the engine sounds, the rawness of the chassis when you throw it around, and the most importantly the way it makes you feel like you’re going fast when you are behind the wheel, and yes have to you pay for that experience with this car. We don’t think rationally when we buy this car, but emotionally!
Here’s Why BMWs are Crap, DIY car repair and car review with auto mechanic Scotty Kilmer. The worst car to buy. Buying a BMW. BMW problems. Is BMW worth it? Buying a new BMW. Buying a used BMW. Should I buy a BMW. Are BMWs reliable? The truth about BMW. Car advice. DIY car repair with Scotty Kilmer, an auto mechanic for the last 52 years.
I own an E30 325iS and e36 328iS. Both cars I purchased, in order to restore them. Doing the work myself is super rewarding and a great hobby. You make some valid points but the fact is, I hate new cars and their (tech). Something to be said about simplicity. Sure maintenance can be a bitch but really, if my radio stops working, the car still runs. Old cars rock.
the tech creates a gap between you and the road by interpreting (with sensors) your inputs and make changes to them through abs or tcs, ect... People who are passionate about driving (as you are clearly) want gas, brake, clutch, handbrake, shifter, wheel as inputs and nothing else! Respect ✊
Facts, that’s why I like older cars, because of its simplicity, yeah new cars are comfortable and cool with their tech but nothing beats simplicity imo
86shelby can I talk with you somehow? I'm from Poland and in the future I wish to have e30. I wish to ask some things about restoring it and keeping in great condition I'm just 21 year old so I'm not well experienced.
same we have a bmw e36 compact sport edition and it lasted for 25 years now and nothing really broke but our skoda fabia(a czech car) dude it had so many problems now, we will sell it this year and keep the bmw
Just be ready to replace almost every vacuum line, cooling system, disa valve, bushings, headliners, window regulators, vanos and do it your self because mechanics try to finesse you!
Hahah, you're spot on... I've had my 1996 328is since 04 and I've replaced all of those things (and more). But even now with over 250k miles on the clock, she's still on the road running strong
If I’m buying an old ass e36 I’m not buying it to daily drive. It’s for a project car. I’m down no matter what. I am glad you talked about the problems to watch out for though! Thanks!
I have an 03 e46 and my fam thinks I'm nuts investing into the motor, suspension, wheels etc. I love my car and I'l never get rid of it. Changing coils, vanos solenoid etc is all worth it. Such a fun car to drive and the design, looks, and weight distribution of the e46 is amazing & timeless.
Hahaha same here! I have an 01 330i and just put $1500 on it, and it's just the beginning, and a lot of people telling me: "dude, you're crazy! You'll never gonna get your money back!" And I'm like: "I know I'll never gonna get my money back, cause I'll never sell this baby!" I just love it
I love my E39! The new cars lack character. They just look like a pile of money. The pure mechanical and analog feel I get from my E39 is priceless! After changing all the suspension parts, the car handles great.
I own a E36 coupe and E39, and what I've learned for the last few years of ownership is that these are cars for enthusiasts IMO. If you're just looking for a reliable car I don't think any BMW is a good idea, even the newer ones. You just gotta love driving and working on it to fully appreciate it.
I've had 2 E46 BMWs, been incredible reliable never let me down, both needed old bushings replacing like you said and a little rust repair but both were extremely reliable did thousands of hastle free miles 👍
I love my e34, few minor wiring issues here & there but my m50b25 engine is bulletproof. Every thing is nice & simple, easy to work on. And most of all it drives raw, like a real car. Modern cars are too artificial for my liking.
Bought my ‘97 M3 in ‘07 with 58K on the clock. Not my daily. Now in 2020 it’s my long term friend. Right now I’m messing with some very minor rust issues in the trunk area. Learning more about my car all the time.
I come from a BMW family, and have been lucky enough to own two. I live in the US now, and instead of buying a BMW, I bought a new Corvette with a Manual Transmission. Best choice ever! Get a Corvette, they are amazing!
I owned a E36 325 for7 years (daily driver, no racetrack or much aggressive driving) and I can confirm that everything you said is spot on. Furthermore I did see how older parts worn out over time and the maintenance costs went up over time.
Bought an e46 m3 about 5 years ago...went out to check my oil a day or two ago and can see metal flakes...not sure what it is yet but definitely going to be pricey....
Cameron Bell mine is an 05. Did an oil analysis and came back everything was in line, put in 5w50 instead of 10w60 and haven’t had another issue:) definitely would recommend redline 5w50 with motorkote
I own a 1997 e36. Had it for over 10 years. This car is used daily for going to and from work, days out, shopping, carrying building material, etc.... Apart from normal servicing and the odd small problem due to wear and tear, it has NEVER let me down. Took it recently for it’s yearly MOT (U.K. test for road worthiness) Passed with no issues. I know plenty of people with new/modern cars. All fine and dandy until they go wrong. Then, BIG BILLS, specialist mechanic etc... etc.. Even BMW don’t build ‘em like this anymore. Get a good one and enjoy it!
The Best thing about E36 cars is that despite the peripheral problems they might have.. many parts are still available (don't know another brand offering new parts is such old cars) and a ton used pars are also available everywhere!! So it is almost impossible to have your car out of use because of missing parts.. only that is a very good reason to have one.. i leave out the superb and timeless styling and design and the bulletproof engines especially the ones without vanos.. i have an 318is M44 mpack and i still can't stop admiring it..
I am happy with my 1990 E30 316i. 163 200 km on the clock. Stock standard, original body , M40 engine. Does not cost me much for maintenance. Cam belt replacement every two years. I don't abuse vehicles by doing drifts and do-nuts. I drive them properly and enjoy the rides.
4 reasons to buy an old BMW 1, rwd for sideways action 2, straight 6 goodness 3, it will only go up in value 4, suspension mount and subframe re-enforcement is easy to prevent if you catch it before they start to go
I’ve had 2 E30s, 2 E36s and 1 E46. All of them have been great cars. I still own 1 e36 (with an LS now, sorry!). Parts are readily available and relatively cheap, they’re easy to work on, and they’re great to drive. People just need to remember these were expensive, high tech cars when new, and that means they will require some maintenance. If you look after them, they look after you!
I have a E46 328i and it’s a great car. Over 22 years old and still runs great with basic maintenance. Can it be a pain in the ass sometimes? Yes, but I’d still prefer it to any modern car I’ve ever driven.
Great advice in this video. I think it all depends on your situation, what you want and what you need. The first car I ever drove was my dads 1990 325i when I was just 14 years old. Growing up the feel of that car stuck with me and made me long for a "proper" 6 cylinder BMW of my own. I finally bought a M140i in 2021 after 7 years driving my 2005 Civic Type R which literally rusted away under me! I can honestly say the M140i is the best car I have ever owned and every time I drive it I am reminded of that 325i. One way or another, owning cars like this is an expensive hobby. If you like fixing up cars and don't depend on it as your daily driver, go for the old M3. If you are an average guy like me and just want something that feels special, the M lites are great value for money.
E30 for the simplicity... Maintenance is the key. Parts are readily available, but somewhat pricey. Driving my e30 always makes me smile, and the styling is timeless. Thank you for the video👍
Nothing against e36's here 😉. I just prefer the earlier cars - actually love my '73 2002tii best (positively primitive compared to newer BMW offerings). Cheers!
Yeah they have really gotten expensive for what they are... A '68 2002 was my first car (old guy 😉). Always wanted another and found one I could afford. It's just barely a driver - gathering parts for restoration... The injection system is very pricey to rebuild. Luckily, it's very rust free and the body is in good shape👍
@@TheDasbull so are bmw's worth it? i am planning on buying a car during or after college when i get a job. Is maintenance pricey? I am looking at e36, e24, e30. I bet they're expensive😪
Compression test, compression test compression test. Composite Impeller (not metal). Owner since 2010, work on it myself most of the time. These cars are so fun to drive. I just got mine painted 1992 (1st e36 ever) Euro Sport 325i, 300k+ miles, full sport package, all the bells and whistles. Thinking of selling it for about 20k, maybe. Its running better than ever, the motor has literally no vibration its so smooth. So much power, brand new head (4k) with only a few thousand miles on it. Just painted it (3k). 200HP - its time to change the diff and trans fluid. I'm currently fixing the interior, its almost all done. Mechanically there's only a couple minor issues, that I'll fix. I just got it back yesterday from the auto body shop and I get compliments on it all day.
Very valid points that you made. BMW's are amazing cars, I love my e46 320d, but they can be expensive to maintain and fix. If one is not prepared to spend some money and/or employ a lot of elbow grease then one should not buy an older BMW. I was lucky with my current car amd the e36 that I had: I was the second owner of both, the previous e36 owner was a retired school principal amd the previous owner of my e46 was a retired accountant. Bith cars were meticulously maintained, I just kept on maintaining. That seems to have saved me a great deal of money, time and trouble.
My dude: these cars have nearly perfect 50/50 weight distribution (so much care was given to this that the battery in an early M3 is found in the trunk, passenger side, to try to balance the weight as perfectly as possible). Your comment that they are bad in the snow because they are light in the back with the engine weight up front is dead wrong. I've driven all three of these M cars, and owned two, in Colorado, in the winter, and with their balanced weight and limited slip diffs, they do great. Good job being wrong.
I have a 98 e36, and a 05 e46, I've never had an issue, yes i did the normal maintenance, water pump, fuel filter, new vacuum lines. They're not that bad to work on, when i brought my 05, it was either a e46 or an e90, i went with the e46, easier to work on and it was a 6 speed.
As a past owner of 7 BMWs years 72 thru 90, I agree that they can be expensive to own. But, it should also be stated that with forums and all the videos on maintenance these cars are way more easily maintained today than most newer cars on the road today. Ultimately it is about the joy of driving a vehicle that won't put you into limp mode just when you really start to enjoy yourself. Btw, my '86 had 320k when it was hit and my '88 E28 has 275k and climbing.
I have a great e36 328, it's so fun to drive.....LOVE IT!!! Waist mi time with your video... Old BMW are an expression of mechanic art and they always can be fixed...it'snot about tech, it's about fun to drive.
Own a 1985 318i (4 door) and It has been my daily driver since about... 8 years ago, rebuilt the engine, rebuilt the suspension, it's a money pit for sure, but hell, these cars are amazingly fun to drive. Every. Single. Time.
I wish I had an M3, but for the money my 328IC is sharp and fun to drive. Hell even the M3s with 240hp aren't nearly as fast as all the 300-500 hp cars of today.
Jason Gruber - I have also have a e46 M and no doubt that it is a fun car to drive. I however truly would rather DD the 318 over the M, and save the M for weekend trips with the Mrs and for the track where I explore both my and the car’s limits. And as usual I need more tuning than the car.
I’ve had my e36 328 2 years wasn’t maintained the last 10 years of its life I’ve put $4,000 into it getting it mechanically sound but she’s siting at 206k miles. It costed a lot at first but I’ve only put $30 in it the last 6 months. E36 is by far the sexiest BMW they ever made
I've owned 1 of 3 of my e36 for over 10 years my e30 for 5 years now and when I'm not driving my work truck I drive my e46 325xi the most and love all of them.
I have an e30 that got wrecked and sat for 14 years and im in the process of restoring it and making it nice. I wouldn’t trade it for the world especially only having 40,000 miles on the clock
I own an E36 M3 and I mostly disagree with your assertions. Look if you going to buy an abused high mileage old BMW, you will be indeed throwing your money down the drain (unless you have budgeted for a costly restoration) . But these cars were mechanically bulletproof, with little fancy tech that could go wrong. So the key is finding a well kept example and not only will it retain its excellent resale value that few modern cars possess but will also give you miles of fun. These cars had character that is somewhat lost in modern cars.
As a proud owner of E36 with friends that have E9X or Fxx 3 series, all the downpoints are actually good ones (except safety). Because all that modern things tend to break and are expensive to repair
The BMW M3 E36 US spec has 240 HP The BMW M3 E36 EURO spec has 321 HP it has double Vanos, 1 throttle per cylinder(6). 6 speed manual, limitted-slip differential etc, etc, etc
Great advice. If you ARE a car guy and you enjoy maintaining cars then buy one. I see very few around so its nice to have something more unique. I have a much lower budget so I bought a $2k E36 328IC. Its not an M3 but it is a top of the line convertible. I researched the topica l issues of this make and model (one reason I watched all the vids and subbed). The top and AC work, its under 100k miles, and the engine is strong. I am currently upgraded the entire cooling system with Mishimoto aluminum parts to replace all the 22 year old plastic parts. I do most of the work myself so its cost effective. I did paid to have a wheel bearing and shocks replaced. For the money I have a prestigious car that accelerate, turns, and stops better than most cars with after market parts, its a BMW! Its has most of the features a newer car has like ABS, gas mileage estimate, power evereything, and other than the black door trim the car still looks like a modern car. Bottom line is if you appreciate older cars and will do some of the work yourself its a great car. If you just want to buy a more common or luxury car, then these cars will cost you time and money. The odds are if your watching Treats On The Streets then you are a car guy so the choice is yours..
Mine isn't an M3 but 88k miles and I am upgrading the cooling system to Mishomoto aluminum BEFORE I have over heating issues. Great cars if you know what you are getting into. My next car will be an M3 or I might just supercharge this one.
My 142 Mk7 GTD, a very clean car when I bought it ended up costing me an extra 5,000 euro in 6 months on top of the 15,000 euro price tag. I done some basic modifications like professional remaps, exhausts tints etc. Then that’s when all the issues started coming in, each trip to the garage was 600-1000 euro and it was happening every month at least once. After that I bought a Ford Sierra and sold my golf and loved it, no issues. Now I have ended up with my e36 318is msport. Absolutely love it so easy to work on and easier to modify. I’m only 19 and still in school so I’m happy to have something different and sometimes more expensive doesn’t mean better.
i own a e30 as daily car and already worked a year on it to get the body in good shape, renew the bushings, all that stuff. than drove it for a year and now its back on jackstands because im doing a full engine revision (bought a high milage car). yeas, old cars are a lot of work, but also a lot of fun to drive with. now i also got an e36 vert so i have a car to drive and also got an e36 sedan im parting out to earn a few bucks. owning these cars, you learn a lot about cars and how they work, and driving them is pure pleasure. wouldn't change it for a new car. if i had to choose between my e30 or my mom's 2013 Mercedes, im sticking with my e30 because it doesnt beep or something all the time
Just so u know - much like other cars, e36 does tend to break A LOT less if you dont't drive it like you stole it (or like at the beginning of the video) and leave the original rubber bushings in place instead of plastic "stiffer" ones. Then again, i just drive my 318iS touring like a normal car - carefully & with love.
I owned a e90 335xi FBO, and sold it and bought a E36 M3, wouldn't ever go back. The M3 is just special and puts a smile on my face whenever I look at in the garage or drive it. Some maintenance to do for sure. But the newer BMW's are getting too complicated to work on and very expensive to repair, and the depreciation of the newer non M cars is staggering.
I’ve got a e30 and an e36 ones a 90 325i Coupe and the other’s a 97 328i Hardtop Convertible. Both are the only two cars I’ve owned since I’ve been 18 years old. The e30 being my most recent which I purchased this year. I will tell you many of the things you’ve said in this video are true. However, to each is their own. I haven’t had many of the subframe bushing problems. I will say this. If you don’t want maintenance and an old car. Plan on having a fat payment every month. However, a fat payment means driving something “new” that’s not that “cool”, but reliable. However, an older car paid in cash means no payment, but you get to drive your so called “dream car”. However, in the case of an e30 or e36 owner. It does mean a tremendous amount of maintenance. In closing all I gotta say is make sure you have a tech that’s like a brother. Licensed, insured, and has the passion for the vehicles like you do. You need to have a specialist if you aren’t willing I, don’t k ow how, or are unable to turn the wrenches on em yourself. I ain’t talking the dealer either. Find a small mom & pop shop that works on old European cars.
..I have a 1994 BMW 318is -(e36) 260K kilometers ..and I have changed ..a radiator(2) - alternator - and a week ago a water pump which was very difficult to replace anyway, it's still going great - the most reliable car evar had this is the reason i still keep it -compared to the 520i I have, I consider it much better
Buying a m car from this era is just not necessary u can achieve equal power with non m cars for way less cash (turbo) get a non m e46 for 2k turbo it for 2k and extra stuff for 2k and you’ll absolutely spank a 20,000 e46 m3 and 335s for under 7 grand
i have an e46 330xi got so lucky. bought from a mechanic have had for 3 years only problem i have had was a plastic coolant hose broke. i drive it hard too
Working on '02 325i has been a blast. Yes I've replaced alot of stuff under the body, but its also taught me to be more appreciative and sharpened my mechanics skills. At this point there is no way I'm parting ways with mine.
I have owned a ‘99 e36 M3 convertible and loved it. It was high mileage, but performed well. Sold it and now have an ‘06 e46 325ci convertible with 59k on it. Love it too! Not as fast though.... could have bought a 370z or some other vehicle, but....it wouldn’t be a BMW. Love the way BMWs handle. Good video! 👍
Forgetting that junkyards and pick yards are full of E36 and E46. Can get a mint interior, VANOS, body panels, etc. for the same price as Pontiac parts. I go and take a few apart every summer just to learn.
I have a 2002 silver e46 m3 with manual, black interior in mint condition with 155k miles. It drives perfectly with high mileage. Personally I prefer it has mileage on it because if cars just sit there.....problems will come up regardless. Better to drive it once a week rather than let it sit. I re-did the entire headliner with columns with suede. I would never sell since it’s really a timeless car. I get thumbs up all the time. 100% stock too
Love love love my e46 325xi. He had his for 3 years. I am on year 10. Done the front suspension, cooling system, fuel system, etc etc. Yes i put money into it but damn almost have a new car at this point.
I own a 1997 4 door e36 m3 sedan. I have replaced its engine to the euro spec S50B32 rate around 316hp at 7400 rpm with 258 lb/ft torque at 3250 rpm also known as 100hp per liter engine. I have the problem that the engine is ODB1 and the chassis is ODB2 compatibility.
I used to be a big BMW guy. I owned 2 e30’s, an e36 M3, a BMW 2002 and a 2018 BMW X5M. They were all pretty bulletproof once sorted. That said, I sold all of them, moved on to Porsche 911’s (2 air cooled 911’s and a 2007 turbo) and have never looked back. Porsche > BMW all day long.
I have 7 BMWs and the newest is a ‘12 X5Diesel which is tuned and deleted and pulls a trailer and is the wife’s daily Der. The rest include E46 M3s and E24, 32 and 34s. All can be dealt with for almost anything by a local independent mechanic shop. As I spread around the miles over all these cars (although the DDer is an E32 and is very reliable) the maintenance is about what I could spend on a much newer and very expensive BMW. Then once that new car is out of warrantee it is going to be ultra modern and boring, uglier; and frankly not interesting at all to me. You have to pay to play, but one or two classic BMWs means you might even have a car that is gaining in value, rather than depreciating like a rock. Good video and great common sense thoughts, overall 👍
in my opinion an e36 is just the perfect car for me. I love the front of it, I just dont like the options since I live in a poor country and these cars are basically just 120HP. But Im getting money to put on 220HP because i dont want to have an high HP car. The parts are a lot of cheaper than the new ones. And the new bmw's are a lot expensive since time just goes and doesnt go back. New cars just only gonna be expensive, so this bmw is the best car.
I have 2 e 30s & one e24, a 70 Chrysler, a 79 Dodge & a 76 Oldsmobile. Cars that I have that are newer: 0. Plus, insurance is cheap, & I don't owe money on any of them. I like my older cars. Yes, you do have to do regular maintenance, and due to age, you have to replace rubber/plastic parts. Last new car I had (back in 1984 & 1986) I STILL had to replace things on them. As long as they are maintained, like a new(er) car, they don't break down that often. With exception of the mopars (Dodge & Chrysler), all have over 100k miles. None have had any major problems. Makes my husband mad that my Oldsmobile has NEVER broke down, and needs so little work. Other reason we like em is that we can work on them. You cant on newer cars with all that computerize garbage on them. I've fixed my own cars at work, making the guys think I'm some sort of weirdo superhuman chick or something. They can't figure it out that I know something (probably more than them) about cars. hahaha
Good job on the video! I watch them both and loved them. One thing I think would have been a good touch would have been to list the main issues that we have with these cars like the oil separator, the vacuum leaks and the subframe ... but still an excellent job on both.
Great, new video! Always happy to see it. Also happy to hear objective view of the ownership of one of them older beasts. It is all true... I do have two things to add: Cheap BMW is the most expensive BMW! Never buy it. And second being... This what Gavin mentioned, bushings, mounts, reinforcements and stuff... that's fairly easy, most of it isn't that expensive and simple enough to do alone. But what Gavin did not mention and hasn't experienced yet is the actual expensive stuff i'm dealing with right now - worn valves, piston rings, chains, tensioners. Now that shit is gonna cost you much more than you're willing to acknowledge to yourself. I previously owned all e36s except M3 which is rediculously expensive in Europe. And even for my current one, 325i, rebuilding the engine with some OK, not top of the line stuff - will cost you well over $2,000... just on the engine... if you do labor YOURSELF. If shop does it, you might as well double to triple that amount. And you WILL have to do that after 150-200,000 miles on your engine, much sooner if you rip it past 5k rpm all-day-every-day. Speaking of which - those are awesome cars, i will probably never leave e36 platform, not in 20 years. Magnificent handling, superb straight six sound, extremely comfortable if you consider they were built in the '90s. Sound system H&K is top of the line, random parts and sensors are fairly cheap too. People turn heads for my e36 same as if it was a Lambo, but appreciate it even more. All of that being said... if you aren't mechanically inclined or have deep pocket - don't get into old BMWs, they will ruin you. If you are one of them petrolheads, do get it - you will not regret it! P.S I see you worked on your hand movement when sliding Gavin... well done, keep rippin' boi 💯 and give us some more videos to watch! Cheers!
got a 1990 BMW 318is e30 with 300.000km on it.. still hitting limiter in fifth gear on highway. she has seen streets and conditions in the alps that you wouldnt even imagine.. she also became a boat for 10 meters during a flood. no abs, no powersteering, no traction control, no ultrasophisticated electronic spaceship bullshit.. just driving simplicity. obviously changed common usurable parts.. im not a car mechanic but it is so simply built that if you know whats what she'll rarely seen a proper one.. she always brought me home, no matter the conditions. changed first rear wheel bearing one month ago, just to tell about the durability of its components. still going strong and able to reach 4-5L/100k at 110kmh.. Danke Bayerische Mist Wagen
All old cars have these problems. If you enjoy the car, you enjoy the work. I have a E30 that my brother and I completely rebuilt for fun. The car has E36, Z3, E46 and many other cars in in. Have a S52, only complaint is it's not euro s50.. the build was worth it and I enjoyed it all the way. I wouldn't daily the car, have track coil overs and all poly or solid bushings. This vid should be, don't by this car to daily but it is fun to have. They are such great cars.
This video and most comments very biased towards BMW-s. There are some reasons against buying them (from Europe): -Very bad reputation -Almost every one of them beaten, abused, poorly serviced - Lot of them are on sale for very cheap(mostly diesels, 4cyl, auto trans), decent petrol 6cyl manual models expensive, M cars are insanely priced. - Rust is a big issue - They require a lot of service and maintenance, oem parts expensive - You need to be an expert diy-er or have the big bucks for a good BMW shop -subframe cracks on 3 series - cooling system issues: coolant hoses , radiator , thermostate,water pump, expansition tank. -viscous fan exploding - all of the rubber hoses, like intake hose, vacuum lines cracking - oil leaks, valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter mount gasket, front and rear main seals - oil pump nut can loosen or even fall off(most common on m54) -ccv valve -disa valve -vanos fail and oil leak -plastic timing chain tensioners fail - plastic valve covers crack - all bushings and driveshaft rubber guibo flex disc -valve lifter ticking -motor mounts -they require many special tools to fix
I have the latest E30. It's called 2002 Z3 3.0 (5-sp manual), with 21-ventury tech including throttle-by-wire & (switchable) DSC, which is necessary at times on such rear suspension type. Unlike the M version, it has "quick steering rack & Torsen LSD", both of which are also added to my other BMW -- 1999 328is (5-sp manual).
Yes don't buy these cars so I can buy them
Orca Speed tell that to the bidders on BringATrailer.
@@kylereyes7320 bunk that website.
Oh, yeah yeah, they're all terrible to own, the frames break, and they're depreciating like crazy. *winkwink
surprised to see u here i was just watching ur body kit unboxing
@@A5h3n. ddos it
I own 2 e36 BMWs. I didn't buy them because they are practical in this day in age. I bought them because they are so much fun to drive. And The Styling is timeless.
Exactly but sometimes I wish I had a faster car to beat those v6 Camrys.
@@Jonathan-tb6fm it can be done and more. My 93 325is, is powered by built 3L M50, with Eaton m122h supercharger. And with brake and suspension modifications, it's a real serious track weapon.
Greenday694 SCBMW is it the Hyde Motors works Supercharger kit?
@@Jawnwickk yes😁
The styling on the BMW E36 is known as "Dolphin"" super looking and if looked after will give DECADES of great service, my 1994 has broken down twice in 22 years (of me owning) owing to squirrel attack apparently on a pipe! Then I changed jobs so no probs since. My M6 hit the road after 6 years and the E36 is my keeper now.
Well,too late.
I own a e36 and a e46
*Looking to buy an e30 right now*
Buy mine
Just got an e30 it’s def worth lil homie
Do it. You will keep it forever. I taught my kids to drive in my E30 ragtop 5 speed. Now they buy used Mazda 3 manuals instead of the retarded throwaway cars their friends drive.
Yes buy it !!! Rewarding thing
Good choice!
"REASONS YOU SHOULD NOT BUY AN OLD BMW" - proceed to have the biggest smile ever when stepping on the gas. :D
Unless it lags like fuck!!
Crazy bro that smile is as genuine as they come.😄😄
The pros really outweigh the cons imo... I bought mine with 300k km on the clock, had the bodywork done, brakes upgraded and now I'm on engine maintenance and mods. E36s are super fun to drive and worth every penny!
Are they pretty reliable? I’m thinking of getting a e30 3 series or e36 when I’m older?
@@aidanbeatzaidan7666 Like any other car it really depends on maintenance done by people before you... But regardless they are pretty tough
@@aidanbeatzaidan7666 As long as you do maintenance they are reliable, definitely worth it though
@@igorputnik3576how expensive was the body work? I just got a m3 but it’s got a lot of dings and dents
I mean if you like old bmws and you’re a car guy you wouldn’t care at all
Amen
Yep
i don't know jack about bmw's, i just love the older ones so so so much, especially the e36
We bought this car because of the 90’s look, the smell, the vibration, the engine sounds, the rawness of the chassis when you throw it around, and the most importantly the way it makes you feel like you’re going fast when you are behind the wheel, and yes have to you pay for that experience with this car. We don’t think rationally when we buy this car, but emotionally!
Couldn't agree more!
E30 has 100% 80s look. The Best for me 😎
Here’s Why BMWs are Crap, DIY car repair and car review with auto mechanic Scotty Kilmer. The worst car to buy. Buying a BMW. BMW problems. Is BMW worth it? Buying a new BMW. Buying a used BMW. Should I buy a BMW. Are BMWs reliable? The truth about BMW. Car advice. DIY car repair with Scotty Kilmer, an auto mechanic for the last 52 years.
I own an E30 325iS and e36 328iS. Both cars I purchased, in order to restore them. Doing the work myself is super rewarding and a great hobby.
You make some valid points but the fact is, I hate new cars and their (tech).
Something to be said about simplicity. Sure maintenance can be a bitch but really, if my radio stops working, the car still runs. Old cars rock.
the tech creates a gap between you and the road by interpreting (with sensors) your inputs and make changes to them through abs or tcs, ect... People who are passionate about driving (as you are clearly) want gas, brake, clutch, handbrake, shifter, wheel as inputs and nothing else! Respect ✊
Facts, that’s why I like older cars, because of its simplicity, yeah new cars are comfortable and cool with their tech but nothing beats simplicity imo
Well said my friend. Also have a 325is, it's just awesome
86shelby can I talk with you somehow? I'm from Poland and in the future I wish to have e30. I wish to ask some things about restoring it and keeping in great condition I'm just 21 year old so I'm not well experienced.
same we have a bmw e36 compact sport edition and it lasted for 25 years now and nothing really broke but our skoda fabia(a czech car) dude it had so many problems now, we will sell it this year and keep the bmw
Just be ready to replace almost every vacuum line, cooling system, disa valve, bushings, headliners, window regulators, vanos and do it your self because mechanics try to finesse you!
Jonathan And buy good fluids and lubes
Jonathan If it has a vanos, is it a little too new if want to work as little as possible on a old bmw
Its a great car if you can do some or most of the work yourself. I wouldn't recommend one to my gf.
yep thats just how it is
Hahah, you're spot on... I've had my 1996 328is since 04 and I've replaced all of those things (and more). But even now with over 250k miles on the clock, she's still on the road running strong
I agree with about 10% of this...the remaining 90% is the same for all old cars
bmw guys never say "old or new" bmw its bmw! ...never get old .
Buying a bmw is a great time if you work on it yourself. Some of the most fun cars to drive ever, and the styling is timeless.
If I’m buying an old ass e36 I’m not buying it to daily drive. It’s for a project car. I’m down no matter what. I am glad you talked about the problems to watch out for though! Thanks!
I have an 03 e46 and my fam thinks I'm nuts investing into the motor, suspension, wheels etc. I love my car and I'l never get rid of it. Changing coils, vanos solenoid etc is all worth it. Such a fun car to drive and the design, looks, and weight distribution of the e46 is amazing & timeless.
I Have An E46 And Just Did The Motor Swap & Cooling Overhaul . 5spd Manual Def Worth It
Hahaha same here! I have an 01 330i and just put $1500 on it, and it's just the beginning, and a lot of people telling me: "dude, you're crazy! You'll never gonna get your money back!" And I'm like: "I know I'll never gonna get my money back, cause I'll never sell this baby!" I just love it
JZ408 i got an 01 330ci with 234,008 miles on it, no lights on the dash running better than ever😎
Recently copped an 05 e46 gotta replace the clutch tho 🙃 and I'm having a bunch of other codes and leaks
I love my E39!
The new cars lack character. They just look like a pile of money.
The pure mechanical and analog feel I get from my E39 is priceless!
After changing all the suspension parts, the car handles great.
@Junior e39 ///M5 drive.google.com/file/d/1R0wYyp7RQrbC4RuVrQ6bndXUlvWZT4jl/view?usp=drivesdk
@Junior e39 ///M5 Sweet!!
@@TB7530 do you have link to which headlights those are and what kinda price did you get it for
I have the e39 530i 5 speed and man is it great
Lil Shaggy nice, I just saw a clean one sell for 5800 the other day
I own a E36 coupe and E39, and what I've learned for the last few years of ownership is that these are cars for enthusiasts IMO. If you're just looking for a reliable car I don't think any BMW is a good idea, even the newer ones. You just gotta love driving and working on it to fully appreciate it.
I've had 2 E46 BMWs, been incredible reliable never let me down, both needed old bushings replacing like you said and a little rust repair but both were extremely reliable did thousands of hastle free miles 👍
E85 my first BMW and very happy with how much of a smile it puts on my face
I love how someone who pays another person to fix their car talks like an expert
I love my E46.
I rather have the old than the new
Me too love my e46
@@juanjuanez920 yea the new ones gave that hydromatic transmission don't like it I like my Manual better
Yep i love mine too, the guy who did this video is not from this planet
How can i learn to maintain
I love my e34, few minor wiring issues here & there but my m50b25 engine is bulletproof. Every thing is nice & simple, easy to work on. And most of all it drives raw, like a real car. Modern cars are too artificial for my liking.
M50 engine never breaks
Bought my ‘97 M3 in ‘07 with 58K on the clock. Not my daily. Now in 2020 it’s my long term friend. Right now I’m messing with some very minor rust issues in the trunk area. Learning more about my car all the time.
The other 5 reasons:
1. Let
2. Me
3. Buy
4. It
5. Instead
I come from a BMW family, and have been lucky enough to own two. I live in the US now, and instead of buying a BMW, I bought a new Corvette with a Manual Transmission. Best choice ever! Get a Corvette, they are amazing!
I owned a E36 325 for7 years (daily driver, no racetrack or much aggressive driving) and I can confirm that everything you said is spot on. Furthermore I did see how older parts worn out over time and the maintenance costs went up over time.
Bought a old e46 4 years ago been nothing but a dream since
Bought an e46 m3 about 5 years ago...went out to check my oil a day or two ago and can see metal flakes...not sure what it is yet but definitely going to be pricey....
Clay Crawford welcome to the life dawg i spent 1k fixing the leak from my gaskets only to find another one in the pan.
Cameron Bell mine is an 05. Did an oil analysis and came back everything was in line, put in 5w50 instead of 10w60 and haven’t had another issue:) definitely would recommend redline 5w50 with motorkote
I own a 1997 e36. Had it for over 10 years. This car is used daily for going to and from work, days out, shopping, carrying building material, etc.... Apart from normal servicing and the odd small problem due to wear and tear, it has NEVER let me down. Took it recently for it’s yearly MOT (U.K. test for road worthiness) Passed with no issues. I know plenty of people with new/modern cars. All fine and dandy until they go wrong. Then, BIG BILLS, specialist mechanic etc... etc.. Even BMW don’t build ‘em like this anymore. Get a good one and enjoy it!
I love every single one of my older BMW's . Have owned multiple E30, and e36.
In the balkans where i live those are sold like fresh warm bread. I own 2.8 e39 and every second i spend in it makes me so happy!
Les balkan squad 🔥
The Best thing about E36 cars is that despite the peripheral problems they might have.. many parts are still available (don't know another brand offering new parts is such old cars) and a ton used pars are also available everywhere!! So it is almost impossible to have your car out of use because of missing parts.. only that is a very good reason to have one.. i leave out the superb and timeless styling and design and the bulletproof engines especially the ones without vanos.. i have an 318is M44 mpack and i still can't stop admiring it..
My 1992 325i non-vanos going strong at 122,000 miles.
Still gets many compliments and love how I can still work on car myself.
@@djvids6921 325 non vanos is the best motor for reliability and performance.. you are lucky..
I am happy with my 1990 E30 316i. 163 200 km on the clock. Stock standard, original body , M40 engine. Does not cost me much for maintenance. Cam belt replacement every two years. I don't abuse vehicles by doing drifts and do-nuts. I drive them properly and enjoy the rides.
I own 2 e46’s. I never want to sell them
4 reasons to buy an old BMW
1, rwd for sideways action
2, straight 6 goodness
3, it will only go up in value
4, suspension mount and subframe re-enforcement is easy to prevent if you catch it before they start to go
I’ve had 2 E30s, 2 E36s and 1 E46. All of them have been great cars. I still own 1 e36 (with an LS now, sorry!). Parts are readily available and relatively cheap, they’re easy to work on, and they’re great to drive. People just need to remember these were expensive, high tech cars when new, and that means they will require some maintenance. If you look after them, they look after you!
I have a E46 328i and it’s a great car. Over 22 years old and still runs great with basic maintenance. Can it be a pain in the ass sometimes? Yes, but I’d still prefer it to any modern car I’ve ever driven.
What do you think about a e30 as a first car?
Great advice in this video. I think it all depends on your situation, what you want and what you need. The first car I ever drove was my dads 1990 325i when I was just 14 years old. Growing up the feel of that car stuck with me and made me long for a "proper" 6 cylinder BMW of my own. I finally bought a M140i in 2021 after 7 years driving my 2005 Civic Type R which literally rusted away under me! I can honestly say the M140i is the best car I have ever owned and every time I drive it I am reminded of that 325i. One way or another, owning cars like this is an expensive hobby. If you like fixing up cars and don't depend on it as your daily driver, go for the old M3. If you are an average guy like me and just want something that feels special, the M lites are great value for money.
E30 for the simplicity... Maintenance is the key. Parts are readily available, but somewhat pricey. Driving my e30 always makes me smile, and the styling is timeless. Thank you for the video👍
yea man, as opposed to the e36 which sooo damn complicated.. (said no one ever)
Nothing against e36's here 😉. I just prefer the earlier cars - actually love my '73 2002tii best (positively primitive compared to newer BMW offerings). Cheers!
@@TheDasbull the 2002 must be a really sweet ride, i reckon. really like those but they're a bit on the dear side for my budget.
Yeah they have really gotten expensive for what they are... A '68 2002 was my first car (old guy 😉). Always wanted another and found one I could afford. It's just barely a driver - gathering parts for restoration... The injection system is very pricey to rebuild. Luckily, it's very rust free and the body is in good shape👍
@@TheDasbull so are bmw's worth it? i am planning on buying a car during or after college when i get a job. Is maintenance pricey? I am looking at e36, e24, e30. I bet they're expensive😪
I bought my 325i a week ago and i am enjoing every second driving it
Really wholesome to see the love you have for your BMW. You earned yourself the DEUTSCHEN RESPEKT. Greetings from the BAYRISCHEN MOTORWERKE
He started listing the cons and i only heard pros because i want a project 😅
Compression test, compression test compression test. Composite Impeller (not metal). Owner since 2010, work on it myself most of the time. These cars are so fun to drive. I just got mine painted 1992 (1st e36 ever) Euro Sport 325i, 300k+ miles, full sport package, all the bells and whistles. Thinking of selling it for about 20k, maybe. Its running better than ever, the motor has literally no vibration its so smooth. So much power, brand new head (4k) with only a few thousand miles on it. Just painted it (3k). 200HP - its time to change the diff and trans fluid. I'm currently fixing the interior, its almost all done. Mechanically there's only a couple minor issues, that I'll fix. I just got it back yesterday from the auto body shop and I get compliments on it all day.
Very valid points that you made. BMW's are amazing cars, I love my e46 320d, but they can be expensive to maintain and fix. If one is not prepared to spend some money and/or employ a lot of elbow grease then one should not buy an older BMW. I was lucky with my current car amd the e36 that I had: I was the second owner of both, the previous e36 owner was a retired school principal amd the previous owner of my e46 was a retired accountant. Bith cars were meticulously maintained, I just kept on maintaining. That seems to have saved me a great deal of money, time and trouble.
My dude: these cars have nearly perfect 50/50 weight distribution (so much care was given to this that the battery in an early M3 is found in the trunk, passenger side, to try to balance the weight as perfectly as possible). Your comment that they are bad in the snow because they are light in the back with the engine weight up front is dead wrong. I've driven all three of these M cars, and owned two, in Colorado, in the winter, and with their balanced weight and limited slip diffs, they do great. Good job being wrong.
I have a 98 e36, and a 05 e46, I've never had an issue, yes i did the normal maintenance, water pump, fuel filter, new vacuum lines. They're not that bad to work on, when i brought my 05, it was either a e46 or an e90, i went with the e46, easier to work on and it was a 6 speed.
As a past owner of 7 BMWs years 72 thru 90, I agree that they can be expensive to own. But, it should also be stated that with forums and all the videos on maintenance these cars are way more easily maintained today than most newer cars on the road today. Ultimately it is about the joy of driving a vehicle that won't put you into limp mode just when you really start to enjoy yourself. Btw, my '86 had 320k when it was hit and my '88 E28 has 275k and climbing.
Treats On The Streets: Cast it into the fire! Destroy it!
Me looking at a busted up old e36: No
I have a great e36 328, it's so fun to drive.....LOVE IT!!! Waist mi time with your video... Old BMW are an expression of mechanic art and they always can be fixed...it'snot about tech, it's about fun to drive.
Own a 1985 318i (4 door) and It has been my daily driver since about... 8 years ago, rebuilt the engine, rebuilt the suspension, it's a money pit for sure, but hell, these cars are amazingly fun to drive.
Every. Single. Time.
Mo’ power does not equal more fun! - says my e30 318is.
same with my e36 318i vert
I wish I had an M3, but for the money my 328IC is sharp and fun to drive. Hell even the M3s with 240hp aren't nearly as fast as all the 300-500 hp cars of today.
Jason Gruber - I have also have a e46 M and no doubt that it is a fun car to drive. I however truly would rather DD the 318 over the M, and save the M for weekend trips with the Mrs and for the track where I explore both my and the car’s limits. And as usual I need more tuning than the car.
I got an e36 318i 5spd manual haha
@@marcozuniga1186 same here! Boston green 96' 318is, easily my favorite car I've ever owned.
I’ve had my e36 328 2 years wasn’t maintained the last 10 years of its life I’ve put $4,000 into it getting it mechanically sound but she’s siting at 206k miles. It costed a lot at first but I’ve only put $30 in it the last 6 months. E36 is by far the sexiest BMW they ever made
I've owned 1 of 3 of my e36 for over 10 years my e30 for 5 years now and when I'm not driving my work truck I drive my e46 325xi the most and love all of them.
Your E36 M3 is so clean and perfect.
I have an e30 that got wrecked and sat for 14 years and im in the process of restoring it and making it nice. I wouldn’t trade it for the world especially only having 40,000 miles on the clock
I own an E36 M3 and I mostly disagree with your assertions. Look if you going to buy an abused high mileage old BMW, you will be indeed throwing your money down the drain (unless you have budgeted for a costly restoration) . But these cars were mechanically bulletproof, with little fancy tech that could go wrong. So the key is finding a well kept example and not only will it retain its excellent resale value that few modern cars possess but will also give you miles of fun. These cars had character that is somewhat lost in modern cars.
OLD Bmw's are the best! I know!
As a proud owner of E36 with friends that have E9X or Fxx 3 series, all the downpoints are actually good ones (except safety). Because all that modern things tend to break and are expensive to repair
I got a e30 and a e36 and I love them
The money I could pay monthly on a car I can use it to fix my cars and I'm still look better than the new ones
The BMW M3 E36 US spec has 240 HP
The BMW M3 E36 EURO spec has 321 HP
it has double Vanos, 1 throttle per cylinder(6). 6 speed manual, limitted-slip differential etc, etc, etc
Great advice. If you ARE a car guy and you enjoy maintaining cars then buy one. I see very few around so its nice to have something more unique. I have a much lower budget so I bought a $2k E36 328IC. Its not an M3 but it is a top of the line convertible. I researched the topica l issues of this make and model (one reason I watched all the vids and subbed). The top and AC work, its under 100k miles, and the engine is strong. I am currently upgraded the entire cooling system with Mishimoto aluminum parts to replace all the 22 year old plastic parts. I do most of the work myself so its cost effective. I did paid to have a wheel bearing and shocks replaced. For the money I have a prestigious car that accelerate, turns, and stops better than most cars with after market parts, its a BMW! Its has most of the features a newer car has like ABS, gas mileage estimate, power evereything, and other than the black door trim the car still looks like a modern car. Bottom line is if you appreciate older cars and will do some of the work yourself its a great car. If you just want to buy a more common or luxury car, then these cars will cost you time and money. The odds are if your watching Treats On The Streets then you are a car guy so the choice is yours..
My E36 M3 convertible is my year round daily. 117k miles and running perfect.
Just gotta eye that coolant temp 😳😳
E36 328is daily , 312k miles running like new 😂👌🏼
Ilisha Samarsky the entire coolant system was replaced at 95k before I bought it
Mine isn't an M3 but 88k miles and I am upgrading the cooling system to Mishomoto aluminum BEFORE I have over heating issues. Great cars if you know what you are getting into. My next car will be an M3 or I might just supercharge this one.
Thanks for confirming my decision, now I’m looking to get E30 and E36
My 142 Mk7 GTD, a very clean car when I bought it ended up costing me an extra 5,000 euro in 6 months on top of the 15,000 euro price tag. I done some basic modifications like professional remaps, exhausts tints etc. Then that’s when all the issues started coming in, each trip to the garage was 600-1000 euro and it was happening every month at least once. After that I bought a Ford Sierra and sold my golf and loved it, no issues. Now I have ended up with my e36 318is msport. Absolutely love it so easy to work on and easier to modify. I’m only 19 and still in school so I’m happy to have something different and sometimes more expensive doesn’t mean better.
i own a e30 as daily car and already worked a year on it to get the body in good shape, renew the bushings, all that stuff. than drove it for a year and now its back on jackstands because im doing a full engine revision (bought a high milage car). yeas, old cars are a lot of work, but also a lot of fun to drive with. now i also got an e36 vert so i have a car to drive and also got an e36 sedan im parting out to earn a few bucks. owning these cars, you learn a lot about cars and how they work, and driving them is pure pleasure. wouldn't change it for a new car. if i had to choose between my e30 or my mom's 2013 Mercedes, im sticking with my e30 because it doesnt beep or something all the time
The e30 is a complete tank. They might overheat, sure, but it doesn't really matter. M20b25 and 27's are bullet proof
Just so u know - much like other cars, e36 does tend to break A LOT less if you dont't drive it like you stole it (or like at the beginning of the video) and leave the original rubber bushings in place instead of plastic "stiffer" ones. Then again, i just drive my 318iS touring like a normal car - carefully & with love.
I love my e36 it a wicked car
I owned a e90 335xi FBO, and sold it and bought a E36 M3, wouldn't ever go back. The M3 is just special and puts a smile on my face whenever I look at in the garage or drive it. Some maintenance to do for sure. But the newer BMW's are getting too complicated to work on and very expensive to repair, and the depreciation of the newer non M cars is staggering.
I’ve got a e30 and an e36 ones a 90 325i Coupe and the other’s a 97 328i Hardtop Convertible.
Both are the only two cars I’ve owned since I’ve been 18 years old. The e30 being my most recent which I purchased this year.
I will tell you many of the things you’ve said in this video are true. However, to each is their own. I haven’t had many of the subframe bushing problems. I will say this. If you don’t want maintenance and an old car. Plan on having a fat payment every month. However, a fat payment means driving something “new” that’s not that “cool”, but reliable. However, an older car paid in cash means no payment, but you get to drive your so called “dream car”. However, in the case of an e30 or e36 owner. It does mean a tremendous amount of maintenance.
In closing all I gotta say is make sure you have a tech that’s like a brother. Licensed, insured, and has the passion for the vehicles like you do. You need to have a specialist if you aren’t willing I, don’t k ow how, or are unable to turn the wrenches on em yourself. I ain’t talking the dealer either. Find a small mom & pop shop that works on old European cars.
..I have a 1994 BMW 318is -(e36)
260K kilometers
..and I have changed ..a radiator(2) - alternator - and a week ago a water pump which was very difficult to replace
anyway, it's still going great
- the most reliable car evar had
this is the reason i still keep it
-compared to the 520i I have, I consider it much better
I loooove my e46 do all the work myself except for welding and it's so sweet to drive.
Bought E36 back in 2010 and had it for 4 years with zero issues, fun to drive.
Buying a m car from this era is just not necessary u can achieve equal power with non m cars for way less cash (turbo) get a non m e46 for 2k turbo it for 2k and extra stuff for 2k and you’ll absolutely spank a 20,000 e46 m3 and 335s for under 7 grand
i have an e46 330xi got so lucky. bought from a mechanic have had for 3 years only problem i have had was a plastic coolant hose broke. i drive it hard too
Working on '02 325i has been a blast. Yes I've replaced alot of stuff under the body, but its also taught me to be more appreciative and sharpened my mechanics skills. At this point there is no way I'm parting ways with mine.
I have owned a ‘99 e36 M3 convertible and loved it. It was high mileage, but performed well. Sold it and now have an ‘06 e46 325ci convertible with 59k on it. Love it too! Not as fast though.... could have bought a 370z or some other vehicle, but....it wouldn’t be a BMW. Love the way BMWs handle. Good video! 👍
Forgetting that junkyards and pick yards are full of E36 and E46. Can get a mint interior, VANOS, body panels, etc. for the same price as Pontiac parts. I go and take a few apart every summer just to learn.
REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD NOT BUY AN OLD BMW. Then as soon as he steps on the gas he has the most genuine smile ever. Bro I want that smile too.😂😂😂😂
I have a 2002 silver e46 m3 with manual, black interior in mint condition with 155k miles. It drives perfectly with high mileage. Personally I prefer it has mileage on it because if cars just sit there.....problems will come up regardless. Better to drive it once a week rather than let it sit. I re-did the entire headliner with columns with suede. I would never sell since it’s really a timeless car. I get thumbs up all the time. 100% stock too
My E46 over 200k miles, still going strong no major problems, very reliable!!
Love love love my e46 325xi.
He had his for 3 years. I am on year 10. Done the front suspension, cooling system, fuel system, etc etc. Yes i put money into it but damn almost have a new car at this point.
I own a 1997 4 door e36 m3 sedan. I have replaced its engine to the euro spec S50B32 rate around 316hp at 7400 rpm with 258 lb/ft torque at 3250 rpm also known as 100hp per liter engine. I have the problem that the engine is ODB1 and the chassis is ODB2 compatibility.
Can’t you just swap engine harnesses to convert it to OBS2?
I used to be a big BMW guy. I owned 2 e30’s, an e36 M3, a BMW 2002 and a 2018 BMW X5M. They were all pretty bulletproof once sorted.
That said, I sold all of them, moved on to Porsche 911’s (2 air cooled 911’s and a 2007 turbo) and have never looked back.
Porsche > BMW all day long.
I can only afford an older E36, but for the money I am quite happy.
The production and effort put on these videos are 10x better than most youtubers
I’ll always love my E46 M3 and I encourage anyone who is wanting to buy it, JUST DO IT!!
No car is perfect but the E30, E36 and E46 are some off the most fun cars around. I own and drive a 330 touring E46 20 years old
I have 7 BMWs and the newest is a ‘12 X5Diesel which is tuned and deleted and pulls a trailer and is the wife’s daily Der. The rest include E46 M3s and E24, 32 and 34s. All can be dealt with for almost anything by a local independent mechanic shop. As I spread around the miles over all these cars (although the DDer is an E32 and is very reliable) the maintenance is about what I could spend on a much newer and very expensive BMW. Then once that new car is out of warrantee it is going to be ultra modern and boring, uglier; and frankly not interesting at all to me.
You have to pay to play, but one or two classic BMWs means you might even have a car that is gaining in value, rather than depreciating like a rock.
Good video and great common sense thoughts, overall 👍
I have had one for over 15 years now and it's still running
I have two E36 and they are reliable good to drive and easy to keep in good conditions
in my opinion an e36 is just the perfect car for me. I love the front of it, I just dont like the options since I live in a poor country and these cars are basically just 120HP. But Im getting money to put on 220HP because i dont want to have an high HP car.
The parts are a lot of cheaper than the new ones. And the new bmw's are a lot expensive since time just goes and doesnt go back. New cars just only gonna be expensive, so this bmw is the best car.
Don’t listen to him, he’s just trying to keep all of them to himself & keep them less rare 😉
I have 2 e 30s & one e24, a 70 Chrysler, a 79 Dodge & a 76 Oldsmobile. Cars that I have that are newer: 0. Plus, insurance is cheap, & I don't owe money on any of them.
I like my older cars. Yes, you do have to do regular maintenance, and due to age, you have to replace rubber/plastic parts. Last new car I had (back in 1984 & 1986) I STILL had to replace things on them. As long as they are maintained, like a new(er) car, they don't break down that often. With exception of the mopars (Dodge & Chrysler), all have over 100k miles. None have had any major problems. Makes my husband mad that my Oldsmobile has NEVER broke down, and needs so little work.
Other reason we like em is that we can work on them. You cant on newer cars with all that computerize garbage on them. I've fixed my own cars at work, making the guys think I'm some sort of weirdo superhuman chick or something. They can't figure it out that I know something (probably more than them) about cars. hahaha
Rear view camera can be installed aftermarket.
Good job on the video! I watch them both and loved them. One thing I think would have been a good touch would have been to list the main issues that we have with these cars like the oil separator, the vacuum leaks and the subframe ... but still an excellent job on both.
im buying an 1987 e28 this weekend and it's gunna be the newest car ive ever owned
Great, new video! Always happy to see it. Also happy to hear objective view of the ownership of one of them older beasts. It is all true... I do have two things to add: Cheap BMW is the most expensive BMW! Never buy it. And second being... This what Gavin mentioned, bushings, mounts, reinforcements and stuff... that's fairly easy, most of it isn't that expensive and simple enough to do alone. But what Gavin did not mention and hasn't experienced yet is the actual expensive stuff i'm dealing with right now - worn valves, piston rings, chains, tensioners. Now that shit is gonna cost you much more than you're willing to acknowledge to yourself. I previously owned all e36s except M3 which is rediculously expensive in Europe. And even for my current one, 325i, rebuilding the engine with some OK, not top of the line stuff - will cost you well over $2,000... just on the engine... if you do labor YOURSELF. If shop does it, you might as well double to triple that amount. And you WILL have to do that after 150-200,000 miles on your engine, much sooner if you rip it past 5k rpm all-day-every-day.
Speaking of which - those are awesome cars, i will probably never leave e36 platform, not in 20 years. Magnificent handling, superb straight six sound, extremely comfortable if you consider they were built in the '90s. Sound system H&K is top of the line, random parts and sensors are fairly cheap too. People turn heads for my e36 same as if it was a Lambo, but appreciate it even more.
All of that being said... if you aren't mechanically inclined or have deep pocket - don't get into old BMWs, they will ruin you.
If you are one of them petrolheads, do get it - you will not regret it!
P.S
I see you worked on your hand movement when sliding Gavin... well done, keep rippin' boi 💯 and give us some more videos to watch!
Cheers!
got a 1990 BMW 318is e30 with 300.000km on it.. still hitting limiter in fifth gear on highway. she has seen streets and conditions in the alps that you wouldnt even imagine.. she also became a boat for 10 meters during a flood. no abs, no powersteering, no traction control, no ultrasophisticated electronic spaceship bullshit.. just driving simplicity. obviously changed common usurable parts.. im not a car mechanic but it is so simply built that if you know whats what she'll rarely seen a proper one.. she always brought me home, no matter the conditions. changed first rear wheel bearing one month ago, just to tell about the durability of its components. still going strong and able to reach 4-5L/100k at 110kmh.. Danke Bayerische Mist Wagen
I’ve had an e36 for 4 years 70000km I’ve driven it and it never let me down. I’ve never been towed I also boosted it 10000km ago.
All old cars have these problems. If you enjoy the car, you enjoy the work. I have a E30 that my brother and I completely rebuilt for fun. The car has E36, Z3, E46 and many other cars in in. Have a S52, only complaint is it's not euro s50.. the build was worth it and I enjoyed it all the way. I wouldn't daily the car, have track coil overs and all poly or solid bushings. This vid should be, don't by this car to daily but it is fun to have. They are such great cars.
This video and most comments very biased towards BMW-s. There are some reasons against buying them (from Europe):
-Very bad reputation
-Almost every one of them beaten, abused, poorly serviced
- Lot of them are on sale for very cheap(mostly diesels, 4cyl, auto trans), decent petrol 6cyl manual models expensive, M cars are insanely priced.
- Rust is a big issue
- They require a lot of service and maintenance, oem parts expensive
- You need to be an expert diy-er or have the big bucks for a good BMW shop
-subframe cracks on 3 series
- cooling system issues: coolant hoses , radiator , thermostate,water pump, expansition tank.
-viscous fan exploding
- all of the rubber hoses, like intake hose, vacuum lines cracking
- oil leaks, valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter mount gasket, front and rear main seals
- oil pump nut can loosen or even fall off(most common on m54)
-ccv valve
-disa valve
-vanos fail and oil leak
-plastic timing chain tensioners fail
- plastic valve covers crack
- all bushings and driveshaft rubber guibo flex disc
-valve lifter ticking
-motor mounts
-they require many special tools to fix
I have the latest E30. It's called 2002 Z3 3.0 (5-sp manual), with 21-ventury tech including throttle-by-wire & (switchable) DSC, which is necessary at times on such rear suspension type. Unlike the M version, it has "quick steering rack & Torsen LSD", both of which are also added to my other BMW -- 1999 328is (5-sp manual).
This man, Doesnt know the history of the E30 M3 , the real m3 , born to be a face car !!!