BMW 323I SE TOURING For Sale

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Register for myTrovit Empty Remove all Cars for sale: bmw 323i touring 1-10 of 19 cars Show filters » Save this search and be the first to receive new ads! · Email: Queries related to " bmw 323i touring ": bmw 323i touring estate , bmw 323i 1998 touring , bmw 323i sport touring , 323i touring , bmw 323i , 323i bmw touring touring bmw Receive the latest cars by email Sort by: · Email: Bmw 3 Series Average Price £ 14,650 Select the make or model you want information on 17,043 £ Price Bmw 14,650 £ Price Bmw 3 Series £3,489 T BMW 323i SE TOURING MANUAL MINT! - new Poulton le Fylde Lancashire 9 Beautiful BMW 323i Touring finished in Sea Green with full black leather interior.Originally owned... by BMW then 1 owner from around 9 months old to now,this car has only covered 72000 miles with full BMW 72,000 Miles 1 day, 9 hours ago in PistonHeads More Share Create alert £4,995 BMW 3 Series i SE Touring Honiton EX14 3BG Devon | Honiton BMW 10 1998 (S) BMW 3 Series 323i SE Touring Estate 5 doors Manual Petrol 1998 BLUE Air Bag Driver, Anti-Lock Brakes, Body Coloured Bumpers, Central Door Locking, Centre Rear Seat BMW 3 Series Honiton BLUE, Petrol 5 Doors 12/09/2010 in Drive24 More Share Create alert Cars similar to "bmw 323i touring" : bmw 323i touring , bmw 323i touring estate POR 1996 BMW 323 i Touring For Sale East Sussex 1 BMW 323i Auto Touring 1996 Finished in Alpine white with full beige interior,ONLY 6100 MILES FROM... NEW.Registered new by Hexagon BMW London in 1996,elecric windows,heated seats,power steering, BMW HiFi,Alloy BMW 323 i Touring , automatic Year 1996 04/10/2010 in Classic Cars For Sale More Share Create alert Cars similar to "bmw 323i touring" : bmw 323i auto , bmw 323 touring £1,700 BMW 323ISE sport mot/tax fsh BMW 323i TOURING ESTATE 1998 perfect 1 BMW 323ISE sport mot/tax fsh BMW 323i TOURING ESTATE 1998 perfect condition ffsh with stamps 3keys rcl as ew 18"wheels with vg tyres engine . £1700. Telephone: - / -£1,700 BMW 3 weeks, 4 days ago in Mobiya More Share Create alert Cars similar to "bmw 323i touring" : 323i touring estate , bmw 323i sport estate £1,875 1998 Bmw 323i Sport Touring Silver Birmingham, West Midlands 1 This is an ad for an Cars 1998 Bmw 323i Sport Touring Silver. This car is priced at 1875.00 €. BMW 1 week, 5 days ago in eBay Motors More Share Create alert Cars similar to "bmw 323i touring" : bmw 323i 1998 £850 £900 Bmw 323i Se Touring Estate Car 2494 Cc Chelmsford Essex | Chelmsford BMW bmw 323i se touring estate car petrol met green elc mirrors and sun roof and windows c/ locking manual gear box good 16 inch alloys with good tyers all round.it is moted BMW 1 week, 2 days ago in Preloved More Share Create alert Cars similar to "bmw 323i touring" : bmw 323i manual estate , bmw touring essex estate £2,200 BMW 323I SPORT TOURING E36 99-S EXCELLENT MSPORT SPEC herts 9 ON 01/02/99. THE CAR WAS THEN SERVICED BY BMW UP TO 50000 MILES. THERE ARE 13 SERVICE STAMPS IN ALL. THERFORE... REAR VIEW MIRROR DIGITAL DUAL ZONE CLIMATE CONTROL FULL DIGITAL CHECK COMPUTER BMW FACTORY ROOF BARS 129,000 Miles 2 weeks, 3 days ago in PistonHeads More Share Create alert Cars similar to "bmw 323i touring" : bmw 323i sport touring , bmw 323i sport spec £1,700 Bmw - 3 Series Radstock BA3 2LS BMW 323ISE sport mot/tax fsh BMW 323i TOURING ESTATE 1998 perfect condition ffsh with stamps 3keys rcl as ew 18"wheels with vg tyres engine . £1700. Telephone: 07988------ 3 weeks, 5 days ago in friday-ad More Share Create alert £2,199 E36 BMW 323i M Sport Touring London Greater London 3 1998 E36 BMW 323i M Sport Manual Touring Facelift Model. Further Pics available at: http... on the bonnet (hardly noticeable) small dent on the tailgate There's a bit of rust around the tailgate BMW badge , 2494 cc 152,500 Miles 2 weeks, 1 day ago in PistonHeads More Share Create alert Cars similar to "bmw 323i touring" : bmw 323i e36 , bmw e36 m3 engine sale £1,500 BMW 323i Sport Touring 2.5 Manual 6 BMW 323i Sport Touring , this is a very rare model in the touring bodystyle and comes with factory... fitted M Tech Body styling and interior package, The 323i is fitted with a 2.5 lite straight 6 cylinder 128,000 Miles 1 week, 1 day ago in PistonHeads More Share Create alert Cars similar to "bmw 323i touring" : bmw e36 touring sale , bmw 330d sport touring Receive email updates for the latest ads with bmw 323i touring · 1 2 Next » bmw 323i touring « Filter your search Publication date Price Year Number of doors Mileage Make Model 3 Series (1) Cities Regions Type Pictures Kind of fuel Transmission · Email: Your email has been sent Send another email Send this search to a friend · Your email Your friend's email Comment Receive RSS alerts Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Other searches that might interest you: rover 1 3 rover 400 leather mitsubishi galant 1999 alfa 147 spark 2003 Search by pictures: bmw 323i touring pictures Cars for sale in India: 2005 ford fusion used honda gujarat Cars for sale in the United States: carlton ford suv corvette peoria bmw car stats: price bmw price bmw 3 series About Trovit | Blog | Your ads in Trovit | Webmasters | Most frequent queries | Trovit on the go | Contact || Register FAQ Calendar Today's Posts Search Detailing Paradise > The 'Write Ups' > Projects, Restorations, and Journals BMW 323i SE Touring E36 (The fun begins!) User Name Remember Me? Password Notices A rule about User Names Each member is allowed one login account. Registering with multiple accounts is not allowed. Failure to adhere to this, and indeed registering another account say of another business for whatever reason will result in a ban for life. We want our members to trust the people around them and will strongly enforce this. (Please use good judgement when choosing user names, avatars, or images to post, and do not attempt to bypass the word filter. It is there for a reason.) One other major point of note regarding usernames: You must NOT use a company name, product name, or any other copywritten or trademarked name as a username without prior approval from the Administration team. ( click here to email the Administration team). Please note that you must detail why you wish to use a company based username, as they are typically only allowed for those who have requested Pro Detailer status. If you wish to apply for Pro Detailer status, register with a user name that meets the above requirements and then submit an application for Pro Detailer status. If the application is sucessful then your user name will be changed to a company based name. Failure to adhere to this requirement will result in your account being banned or deleted. Any subsequent attempts to register a username that has been deleted due to failure of compliance with the above rule will result in you being prohibited from registering any further accounts, wether they are in compliance with the above rule or not. Search Forums Show Threads Show Posts Tag Search Advanced Search Go to Page... Thread Tools Display Modes 17-03-2010, 13:35 # 1 Bobby_t DP Permanent Member Join Date: 2nd Oct 2009 Location: Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen (Scotland) Posts: 127 BMW 323i SE Touring E36 (The fun begins!) Well i have owned this car for a year, was off the road for the last 5 months as i decided I wanted to sell it and plough the funds into my business......but as time went on I decided to keep it. Im the sort of person who will leave a car as i get it for about a year then move onto enhancing it to how "I" want it to be.... The car is a T-reg 1999 E36 (one of the last), presently sitting with 95k with a full service history. I have always wanted the "Alpina" look to it, but wanted genuine parts which seem really hard to aquire.....and usually cost a fortune. Here are some pics of how the car is looking at present: I am intending to have my car ready for DC10 show, but lets see how I get on Bobby_t View Public Profile Send a private message to Bobby_t Visit Bobby_t's homepage! Find More Posts by Bobby_t 17-03-2010, 22:02 # 2 mattsbmw DP Permanent Member Join Date: 4th Jul 2009 Location: Heanor, Derbyshire Posts: 364 looks like being a good one, keep us posted Alpina bits are very expensive mattsbmw View Public Profile Send a private message to mattsbmw Find More Posts by mattsbmw 17-03-2010, 23:26 # 3 Bobby_t DP Permanent Member Join Date: 2nd Oct 2009 Location: Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen (Scotland) Posts: 127 Well i think i might end up with alpina replica alloys...... The plan: Alpina front splitter Lowering springs 30-40mm 17" Alpina alloys (reps) Exhaust system Tinted windows Clear Indicators/side repeaters and rear lights Not sure what else i fancy doing..... Maybe the manifold modification ? ? ? Bobby_t View Public Profile Send a private message to Bobby_t Visit Bobby_t's homepage! Find More Posts by Bobby_t 18-03-2010, 12:06 # 4 AndyC DP Staff Join Date: 28th May 2009 Location: The beautiful town of Basingstoke.... Posts: 1,155 Looks like a really good base for your project mate. If it's any use I will have a pair of BBS RC041's for sale shortly - will need a refurb but a Touring would look really nice on them IMO. I'll also have a pair of Sport front shocks available soon too - second-hand and not exactly mint but they work. AndyC View Public Profile Send a private message to AndyC Find More Posts by AndyC 18-03-2010, 14:58 # 5 Bobby_t DP Permanent Member Join Date: 2nd Oct 2009 Location: Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen (Scotland) Posts: 127 Thanks Andy, but im gonna stick with my plan....will be going for council mods as a friend puts it lol BBS way out of my price bracket lol Bobby_t View Public Profile Send a private message to Bobby_t Visit Bobby_t's homepage! Find More Posts by Bobby_t 18-03-2010, 22:10 # 6 Bobby_t DP Permanent Member Join Date: 2nd Oct 2009 Location: Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen (Scotland) Posts: 127 I decided to address the issue of the headlight steaming up Looking at others pics seems to be a common problem So i split the headlight apart and used a blow dryer to dry out the condensation Put all back together and happy chappy update: was happy in the driveway stayed dry then went for a drive and it steamed up again So next purchase will be headlight gaskets ! ! ! Bobby_t View Public Profile Send a private message to Bobby_t Visit Bobby_t's homepage! Find More Posts by Bobby_t 18-03-2010, 22:11 # 7 Bobby_t DP Permanent Member Join Date: 2nd Oct 2009 Location: Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen (Scotland) Posts: 127 Last night new splitter came through, so ill need to get it sprayed and fitted Bobby_t View Public Profile Send a private message to Bobby_t Visit Bobby_t's homepage! Find More Posts by Bobby_t 21-03-2010, 20:08 # 8 King Eric DP Staff Join Date: 27th May 2009 Location: Fleet, Hampshire Posts: 1,887 Looking forward to the updates mate King Eric View Public Profile Send a private message to King Eric Find More Posts by King Eric 22-03-2010, 11:12 # 9 AndyC DP Staff Join Date: 28th May 2009 Location: The beautiful town of Basingstoke.... Posts: 1,155 Quote: Originally Posted by Bobby_t Thanks Andy, but im gonna stick with my plan....will be going for council mods as a friend puts it lol BBS way out of my price bracket lol Fair play mate - Alpinas do look proper nice on an E36 and with that splitter you're heading in the right direction. Agree with n the BBS's - they can be had cheaply (I paid £70 for my fronts from a guy on e36coupe.com) but even if you DIY refurbing them I reckon you'd need to budget c. £150 on top of the wheels. Shame really as a Touring on BBS RC's would really stand out but I can understand doing it on a strict budget - it's exactly what I'm doing with mine AndyC View Public Profile Send a private message to AndyC Find More Posts by AndyC « Previous Thread | Next Thread » Thread Tools Show Printable Version Display Modes Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode Posting Rules You may not post new threads You may not post replies You may not post attachments You may not edit your posts BB code is On Smilies are On [IMG] code is On HTML code is Off Forum Rules Forum Jump All times are GMT. The time now is 23:34 . Contact Us - Detailing Paradise - Archive - Top Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.6 Copyright ©2000 - 2010, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd. SultanTheme.com vBulletin Skins || Skip to main content Buy My eBay Sell Community Contact us Help Enter your search keyword 15 Sign in or register CATEGORIES FASHION MOTORS CHRISTMAS DEALS Back to Search Results  |  Listed in category: Bread Crumb Link Cars, Motorcycles & Vehicles > Cars > BMW Bidding has ended on this item. Please wait Image not available Enlarge     1998 BMW 323I SE TOURING BLACK Item condition: Used Ended: 04 Nov, 2010 19:51:49 GMT Winning bid: £280.00 [ 10 bids ] Add to list Start of panel Add to Watch list Sign in for more lists End of panel Start of layer Add to a new list Please enter a valid name (Separate multiple list names with a comma) Cancel Click to close End of layer Postage: Read item description or contact seller for details. See more services   Start of layer Click to close End of layer See postal discounts   Start of layer End of layer | See all delivery details Item location: Oxford, United Kingdom Post to: Europe Delivery: Varies Payments: , Cash on collection | See payment information Returns: No returns accepted Start of layer Estimated delivery dates - opens in a new window or tab include seller's dispatch time, and will depend on postal service selected and receipt of cleared payment - opens in a new window or tab . Delivery times may vary, especially during peak periods. Click to close End of layer Start of layer A reserve price is the minimum price the seller will accept. This price is hidden from bidders. To win, a bidder must have the highest bid and have met or exceeded the reserve price. End of layer Seller information Member ID kevjames6085 ( Feedback score of 37 ) Save this seller See other items from this seller Description Postage and payments Share: this item | Print this item - opens in a new window or tab | Report item Seller assumes all responsibility for this listing. Item number: 320609931332 Last updated on   23:39:43 GMT, 01 Nov, 2010   View all revisions Item specifics - Cars & Other Vehicles Condition: Used: An item that has been previously used. See the seller’s listing for full details and description of any imperfections.  See all condition definitions - opens in a new window or tab ...  Read more about the condition Manufacturer: BMW Colour: Black Model: 323I SE TOURING Engine Size: 2,494 cc Type: Estate Power: -- Mileage: 114630 Seats: -- Doors: 5 MOT Expiry: May 2011 Model Year: 1998 Drive Side: -- Reg. Date: 02 Sep 1998 Road Tax: Mar 2011 Reg. Mark: S*** *** Get the Vehicle Status Report Exterior: -- Previous Owners: 7 V5 Document: Present Transmission: Manual Manufacturer's Warranty: -- Fuel: Petrol In-Car Audio: CD Player Service History: Yes Interior/Comfort Options: Air Conditioning, Power Windows Safety Features: Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Driver Airbag, Rear seat belts BMW 323i TOURING 1998 2.5L Petrol Manual, Black This car is being sold as spares or repair due to some faults which I do not have time to fix myself. I am currently not driving this car and it is up for sale due to it needing some attention. I have a new job and car and don't have the time to work on this one. It is however in great condition and very low mileage, and the car has tax/MOT until March/May 2011. Firstly, the work that needs to be done: The steering is stiff and has a suspected faulty steering rack. I have had a quote from a local BMW specialist for a reconditioned steering rack to correct this at around £300. It is driveable as it is but the steering is very heavy in spots. The exhaust also has excess white smoke the cause of which is unknown, possible catalytic converter. I have only owned the car for a couple of months and before that it had been off the road for appoximately 9 months. The car therefore has not been driven much over the last 12 months and would benefit from regular driving. The engine has some slight vibration and is a bit lumpy. I don't know whether this is long term damage from possibly low coolant levels before, or just from not being driven recently. The engine drives smoothly at the moment and certainly has quite a lot of life left given the mileage. The work that the car has had done recently includes: - New radiator, water pump, thermostat, battery and drive belt (Sept 2010) - Front discs and pads, rear pads, bleed brake system (Aug 2010) - Cylinder head work (replaced seals and gaskets), new timing chain, sprockets and tensioners, oil change, renew o/s/f lower arm and ball joint assembly (May 2010) - Three new tyres recently, n/s/r has a few month's left on it. The body work on the car is in great condition. There is one small dent around 2 inches across above the rear bumper on the left hand side. Please contact me for any questions regarding the car or the mechanical issues and I will answer as promptly as possible. Please feel free to contact me and arrange a viewing or test drive (with proof of insurance). Cash on collection only or paypal please. The car would need to be collected within a week of the auction ending. The work that needs doing to this car is reflected in the low reserve and so could be bought at a bargain price!! Good luck and happy bidding... Questions and answers about this item   No questions or answers have been posted about this item.   Ask a question 00604 Seller assumes all responsibility for this listing. Postage and packaging Item location: Oxford, United Kingdom Dispatches to: Europe   Estimated delivery Varies Postal insurance Not offered Return policy The seller will not accept returns for this item. Sellers may be required to accept returns for items that are not as described. 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United Kingdom Change your location Advertise Here Your browser doesn't support i-frames You are here: Friday-Ad Motors » Cars ads » BMW » Bmw - 3 Series » BMW - 323i SE Automatic, 191,000 miles, saloon, petrol, BMW - 323i SE Automatic, 191,000 miles, saloon, petrol,... £1,100 Booked: 25/11/2010 20:58:00 Call: 0 7 7 9 5 4 2 8 1 9 1 Views: « Back Description BMW - 323i SE Automatic, 191,000 miles, saloon, petrol, 2.5, automatic, blue, 4 door, MoT Sep 11, tax Nov 10, good condition, part service history, alloys, cd player, c/locking, e/mirrors, e/windows, p/steering, radio, airbags, Part leather, air conditioning, superb runner an absolute bargain, genuine reason for sale, private lady seller tel £1100.00 ono, 07795428191. Price: £1,100 What To Do Now? Phone: 07795428191 Print ad Similar Vehicles BMW 3 Series SE, Black, July(2007), 37160 miles, Armrest. July(2007), Tunbridge Wells £13995 BMW 3 Series M Sport, Bmw Individual Paint, October(2007) October(2007), Tunbridge Wells £22495 BMW 3 Series M Sport Touring, Silver, March(2010) March(2010), Tunbridge Wells £22995 BMW 3 Series 318ci, 1995cc, Convertible, Automatic 2002(52), Spalding £8995 BMW 3 Series 330d SE 2 Door Coupe, Black, 2007, BLACK 2007, Weston super Mare £14949 BMW 3 Series 318, Silver, 2002, 38000 miles, Rear Park 2002, Burgess Hill £4990 See more ads like this Reviews of ‘BMW 3 Series’ Looking for a sharp, smart-suited performance saloon you can trust as a sound, yet affordable second hand buy? An old shape second generation BMW 3 series will fit the bill nicely. If a new BMW is a distant dream, then browsing around these cars will make your day. It may look old and rather boxy now, but an old-shape `Three` still has the power to move you physically, emotionally and, above all, rapidly. Continue Reading » Options Save This Ad Print ad Email to friend Report this advert Twitter this Read this cars review History What You Get What You Pay What To Look For Replacement Parts On The Road Overall Read the Full Review Your browser doesn't support i-frames Terms & Conditions Privacy & Cookies Policy International Classifieds Friday-Ad Archive (Web-7) - Copyright © 2010 Friday Media Group Ltd . All Rights Reserved. || Log in | New account Home Ask Honest John Reviews Best Deals Advice Good Garages News Back Room Insurance Shop 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se Home » Back Room » Motoring discussion View Threaded Tue 29 Dec 2009 21:08 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Focus_Driver I'm looking to replace my current megane 1996 1.6 8v. I used to have a mk1 tdci which was brilliant and another focus would be great - this time a petrol. But I've always wanted to own a BMW but don't know how it compares to the focus. Both cars are about £1300 and 100k miles. The BMW would be more costly to run and maintain but I only plan to keep it for about a year. What I'm more interested in is which car is the better to drive, around town and for long distance cruising. Reliability is also important. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 21:25 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Jcoventry My dad owns a Mk1 Focus 1.6 Zetec of similar age - no rust, no problems. Solid car, still drives like new after 70,000 miles and almost 10 years. Can't get more reliable than that surely. It always starts first or second time - even after sitting weeks in the cold. The best bit: it's still on the original battery! It's cheap to run, cheap to insure, cheap to maintain. I would go for the Focus, no doubt about it. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 21:27 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Pugugly BMW can be cost effective and that engine is a peach - trouble is once you're hooked...... oh and don't skimp on tyres. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 21:52 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - gordonbennet If you really want to try a Beemer this is a good a time as any and an ideal car to test the water on. Agree with Pug, you want the best tyres you can afford on this especially if it's the first RWD. If you like it and that's a good possibility you might not want FWD again, but each to their own. Spare parts a plenty and cheap from the usual sources GSF and Euro to mention just 2, and specialist indies dotted around if anything should go wrong that needs an expert. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 21:53 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - yorkiebar The Bm would not be my choice of car, but compared to a Focus................................. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 22:03 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Pugugly People say that Focus is the epitome of good handling, but remember that the vast majority of them have never driven a RWD car - if the Beemer is unmolested it will be a fine friend with proper engineering values in it's genes - suppose I should stop now before I get a kicking.....but that engine is probably one of the best petrol unit you can get in a car of it's class.. Edit; I should add I have driven various Focus hire cars over the years both petrol and diesel - I could never get to like the steering feel at the straight ahead - a little dead in my opinion. Edited by Pugugly on 29/12/2009 at 22:11 Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 22:12 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Humph Backbridge Would agree with you there PU. I almost dare not drive a 3 or a 5 for fear of reminding myself how good they are. A bit like when you go to someone else's exquisite house and it makes you want to set fire to your own when you get home. BMWs are like eating chocolate cake with fresh cream and cherries as opposed to the Mr Kiplings apple pie with custard available from the rest. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 22:14 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Pugugly ...and the intoxicating, fruity engine note. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 22:22 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Focus_Driver Thanks, I will give the BMW a try based on the recommendations here. Is £1400 alright for a 323i 100k miles? Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 22:27 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Pugugly Condition and service history is key - if these motors have been regularly serviced they go forever, have a look at HJ's CbyC - is it an E46 or E38 ? Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 22:30 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Humph Backbridge Cheaper than a week's skiing at a half reasonable resort, not quite as much fun but hopefully will last quite a bit longer ! Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 22:37 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Focus_Driver Its an 1998 E36 170bhp 2.5L (is there an e38?). Parkers says its 7.7 sec 0-60 but is that a bit optimistic? Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 22:41 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Pugugly Might be ! E38 was the seven series. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 22:42 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - gordonbennet Regardless of whatever figures Parkers give, if it's running well you will find the acceleration quite addictive, imo they are just getting going when other cars are running out of steam. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 22:49 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - bell boy wouldnt fancy a 100,000 mile 1600 focus lots of these expire and engines are rocking poo hard to find the bmw needs a full new mot or you will spend a fortune on suspension bits and tyres before it will drive right (check the advisories too before you hand the money over in case it just scraped through and the exhaust is patched up personally i would find a nice 2.0 litre focus in a nice colour and from a nice source Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 22:53 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Focus_Driver This was my full reply, don't know what happened: Its an 1998 E36 170bhp 2.5L (is there an e38?). Parkers says its 7.7 sec 0-60 but is that a bit optimistic? Yes they look very solid, I'm sure they are well built cars. Unlike my current mk1 megane! I took it for a free brake check. When they took off one of the rear wheels the bearings fell apart, brake pads where crumbling, engine mount was loose, alternator belt was squealing due to oil leaking on to it. Garage said I had to get it fixed as they would not allow me to drive it off there their premises because of potential liability. They wanted £80 to put in a new wheel bearing which was ridulous. I eventually paid £60 which they accepted. I was told not to buy French or Italian cars as although they look good, are not well built! Edited by Focus1.8TDCi on 29/12/2009 at 22:55 Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 23:03 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - corax My 323i SE touring has done 150,000 miles and shows no signs of wear yet, if you're looking at the beemer make sure it has a decent history with no overheating problems or rough running. A good one will be a lovely thing to drive but a neglected one could become a moneypit. I keep wondering what I would replace mine with, but I would miss various things if I bought another car. Sublime engine, handling, pure steering, independent temperature air to feet and face e.t.c e.t.c I'm hooked! Have seen one touring with 238,000 miles for sale, though not sure what condition it was in. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 23:05 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Pugugly We have no connection with BMW ! What colour is it ? Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 23:16 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Focus_Driver Its dark metallic blue, my favourite colour for that car. Normally I prefer black Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 23:56 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - LikedDrivingOnce corax I keep wondering what I would replace mine with ..... Naturally another BMW must be on your shortlist - but also consider a Mercedes C-class Estate. By all accounts the handling is very much improved (only a little behind a BMW), and it also can boast that it has greater carrying capacity, much superior comfy ride, more kit and a superior image (Are there any Mercedes driver jokes?). Of course the BMW has a better manual gearbox, better engine, and I feel that the build quality is also better. I wouldn't have either of them myself, but maybe that makes me more independent in pointing out the strengths of each. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 09:15 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - corax Of course the BMW has a better manual gearbox, better engine, and I feel the build >> quality is also better... You've just answered your own question. But actually I was one of those people who looked down on BMW's because of their percieved image. In the 80's they were driven by red braced hooligans with a bad attitude, and nowadays the X5 drivers always seem to be tailgating people which I find annoying. But I chose mine based on parts availability, durability and reliability, and when you look at BMW's in that light, you find it makes sense to buy one. Also, I don't think many people who drive older BMW's like me are particularly concerned with their image, they are just driving them because they keep going! If mine got written off, I would think about a 98-03 Honda Accord as they are cars that look bland on the outside, but actually have a great engine and chassis. Also I like the Volvo v70 estates because of their amazing durability, although I have a nagging doubt that they would be expensive to run. I also like mondeos, although I like something a bit different, if only to find it in the car park! Every other car parked along my road is a ford focus. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 23:20 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Focus_Driver I find the focus has that rigid feel when driving on the straight which is unique to that car. But isn't that a good thing and one of its virtues? I haven't driven many types of cars but to me it feels superior to meganes, astras etc. Edited by Focus1.8TDCi on 29/12/2009 at 23:21 Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Tue 29 Dec 2009 23:22 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Pugugly I didn't like it - but that's me :-) I like a live wheel ! Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 10:43 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - M.M No doubt about it if just comparing cars... the BMW is way better... the Mk.1 Focus is pretty dated now. But it's all down to your pocket. The Focus is a pretty safe bet if running well at time of purchase... but the BMW could cost the purchase price again in repairs over a year. When we were young it never stopped us though... rarely an Escort on the drive... ususally some V8, V6, Audi, Alfa, BMW, big Citroen etc. Cost a fortune in running costs to be honest but great fun. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 10:49 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - yorkiebar With the cars mentioned its a choice betwen 2 totally different types of car! Neither would be my choice, but 1 is intersting and 1 is boring. If you want something a little different there are other choices. But between the 2 listed, cost of running = focus. fun of running = bmw Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 11:12 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Pugugly There's no reason on earth why the Beemer should cost much more to run if you pick your repair place well. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 11:34 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - corax They are actually cheaper to repair than a lot of more modern cars due to their traditional rear wheel drive set-up. As has been said before, you must choose a car that has been looked after properly and not patched up to save money. If it doesn't feel any less than great to drive, walk away. Consumables aren't too bad to replace, but that engine must be right, otherwise you could be looking at corroded waterways, overheating, vanos valve timing problems e.t.c. The oil needs to have been changed regularly and the coolant changed at least every 2 years. It only needs to overheat badly once, and you could be looking at a new cylinder head, the alloy is very soft. Well maintained, and they are no problem. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 11:37 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Pugugly Even servicing them through the dealers isn't horrendous - BMW used to have a 5 year plus scheme. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 14:03 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - yorkiebar You cant seriously convince people a bmw of that age and type is as cheap to run as a focus ! Can you ? Eve a routine service bill is a big difference, let alone repairs as and when needed! Not saying its not the car I would choose out of the 2 but cost is an important factor to consider (I think) in this case! Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 14:15 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - corax The OP said that what he was more interested in was which one was better to drive. No contest! Although I'm sure a ford focus will be cheaper to run :-) But the E36 costs are reasonable, given its performance. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 15:51 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Pugugly They aren't as expensive as you might think. Certainly my most recent BMW wasn't that more expensive to service than an equivalent Vauxhall/Ford/Honda Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 17:04 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - cheddar The BMW is an E36 that first saw the light of day in 1990, if it were an E46 then it might be a different story though assuming condition wise etc the cars compare then the much more contemporary Focus would be the one to go for, very sweet engine if no ball of fire and great fun on the twisties. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 19:55 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Focus_Driver Yes, but surely it was improved by 1998 which is the model year I'm looking at. I did try a 1996 316 compact once and it felt like a tank but solid. Focus was miles better. But the bmw compact was based on the previous chasis (e30) though called an e36. And of course a 1.6 (1.8) in a BMW doesn't help. As for servicing, OK parts are more expensive but not by loads. I also do servicing myself so a beemer would use say 0.5 litre extra oil and filter is an extra £1 - nothing in it. Are they easy to drive (light steering etc) or do they require hard work and input from the driver? I don't want it to be like an imprezza with great performance and handling etc only for it to have a harsh ride and heavy steering. Edited by Focus1.8TDCi on 30/12/2009 at 19:56 Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 20:05 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Focus_Driver How does rear wheel drive differ to front drive apart from handling, such as ride comfort, reliability etc? To me it seems more logical for the rear wheels to power the car like it is on a bike. Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 20:39 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - corax I don't want it to be like an Impreza only for it to have a harsh ride and heavy steering. They do have heavier steering than front wheel drive cars, but the advantage is that you feel what is going on through the front wheels. Also the ride is on the firm side, but it depends on the condition of the one you're looking at. If the shocks and bushes are knackered its going to feel a bit woolly. I had my shocks replaced with standard Bilstein B4's which many people reckon are as firm as the standard M Tech shocks on the sport. Also I have powerflex polyurethane bushes on the rear trailing arms and wishbone bushes. This increases harshness very slightly at the back, but only when you are driving over some shocking pieces of british tarmac. The advantage is that it steers very precisely, feels really planted and is rock steady on the motorway, even in a crosswind. They also last much longer. I certainly wouldn't go back to rubber bushes. I've had my car almost 5 years so I've had the time to replace the bits that wear out with uprated items in an economical fashion. In the end its down to personal choice, you'll just have to test drive both cars and find out for yourself. If you choose the beemer and only keep it for a year, you're not going to be bothered about the above. But it will cost more than a focus, assuming they are both without problems. 0.5 litre extra oil Not sure about that. the straight six takes close to 7 litres! Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 21:29 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Blue {P} I've owned both and can assure you that the E36 will not handle as well as the Focus which is simply a much more chuckable car. Basically the situation is this:- Focus:- More modern Safer in an accident Cheaper to run Has much sharper handling than the E36 Will probably have fewer faults BMW:- The engine Looks nicer IMO (if it's i good nick) The engine Possibly more comfortable The engine Just so that you can judge what I'm basing my decision on, I have owned:- E36 316i (about 55K on the clock) E46 323i (over 100K on the clock) Focus MK1 TDCi (about 35K on the clock) and have spent all day driving a Focus MK1 1.6 petrol. (less than 20K on the clock) Overall, it's a tough call and will largely depend on the type of driving that you do, if it's all city stuff then you will find the Focus a better companion, if you spend anytime at all on motorways then the delightful BMW will start to edge ahead. On the condition front, my E46 had done just over 100K when I bought it so was a little vague, I think if I had replaced the suspension bushes then it would have improved quite dramatically. Don't expect miracles from any 100K E36, unless it's just had a full suspension overhaul it is not going to be very sharp! If you were comparing a Focus 2.0 to the BMW then it would be a slightly tougher call but on balance, I think the rule of there being no replacement for displacement will take effect here! Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Wed 30 Dec 2009 22:35 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - Focus_Driver Interesting. I've owned a mk1 tdci and driven a 1.6 petrol focus so I know how good they are - around town and on the motorway. But the bmw engine should be far superior (6 cyl, 24v)? I will try the BMW and let everyone know what I think (without bias!) Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Fri 1 Jan 2010 01:25 2000 focus 1.6 zetec vs 1998 BMW 323i se - CraigP I will try the BMW >> Unless it's a rotter you've picked up, probably safe to say: welcome to the BMW enthusiasts club :-) Reply to this message | Report message as offensive | Link Related News & Road Tests Review: Ford Focus 1998 Superb to drive, roomy cabin has been beautifully thought through, massive choice of used Focus at sensible prices, better car than a similar aged Volkswagen Golf. Road Test: Ford Focus II 2005 The old Focus was Britain's best selling car and clearly the class leader. Even VW admitted that Focus qualities were its goal when it designed... 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Review: Ford Focus 2004 Superb blend of keen handling and ride comfort, a feeling of rock-solid quality inside, seats five in comfort, five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating, excellent TDCI diesels. Review: Volkswagen Golf IV 1998 Comfortable ride, good quality interior, feels solid and durable, very cheap to run TDI diesels, strong image means it will always be sought after. Honest John's Car Buying Advice Get the low-down on how to buy and sell cars the hassle-free way • Terms and Conditions • Advertise on this site • Contact Honest John