New car?? Help.

[YoungCR]

Fwiw N52 328i's are great cars too. It's the evolutionary end of the NA straight six and is fun with a 6 speed behind it. Otherwise I do agree with others though, 330i's aren't really worth it plus I dislike early models in general.

[LFE36M3]

Thanks i had not looked at the 328i but i will have to check in to that more im really just looking in to a 3 series of some kind if it happens to be a fast/fun drive thats just a plus.

[LFE36M3]

2000, 323i with 85k, 1 owner. Any thoughts or opinions? It is just a DD to get me to work and the store. Any big problems i should look for when i go to look at it, (typical cooling problems excluded)

Thanks

[wasnt m3]

It it's auto, you'd probably want one that's had the transmission updated with the new reverse drum. Check the rear subframe and make sure there's no cracks on the body around where it mounts. Overall, they are great cars.

[LFE36M3]

Thanks!

[LFE36M3]

Going to look at a car tonight 2003 330i 98k miles. Any thoughts? I know to look at sub frame and cooling. Any other big things? Thanks

[patsbimmer1]

The subframe issue should be pretty apparent once you drive it.  It sounds like somebody is slamming a bowling ball in the trunk on shifts or a hard take off.  Struts and shocks are probably original and should be replaced so that's something to keep in mind with that mileage.  The DISA valve near the intake mani tends to rattle on these and can cause serious damage if not repaired so at idle I would listen for that rattle. 

edit: The DISA valve is an easy fix but if you have to replace the whole thing it is around $200.  Typically you can clean them or buy the repair kit for them.

[LFE36M3]

Ok thanks i will check for that

[LFE36M3]

Looking at a 330xi can anyone tell me how to tell if its a awd other then the trunk badge. It has 330xi, but the vin plate in the door has 330iA-4/16 10/03 build date.

Any way to tell other then the trunk badge would be awesome. Thanks

[B C]

It depends on what level you are:

Novice level: look under car for front drive axles

Expert level: bounce it off the limiter and launch it

[LFE36M3]

Lol well i dont know how the seller would feel if i was launching there car but looking for the drive axels would be a good idea.... i should have thought of that lol