I've had my eye on a BMW ever since driving my mom's 86 325i convertible when I was 16. I clearly recall getting into second gear and just taking off like a rocket in that thing.

Im test driving a 99 323is with a 5 spd this afternoon. Its got 114k miles on it, but the price is right for me ($12k).

Was wondering if this model, year, has any red flags you guys might know about? The owner has taken excellent care of it, and Im guessing since it hasnt had any problems to date, then its prolly not a lemon.

I guess Im mostly worried because I know my 2000 honda civic is gonna last for years...but I just dont have any experience with German cars as far as maintainance, repairs, etc.

Anyone care to encourage, discourage, or otherwise comment on my inclination to buy?

Thanks, Happy motoring and whatnot.
-Alpha

BMWs maintained at regular service intervals will last a very long time. Even if they are driven hard, proper maintenance does work. A car that has been abused, though, will probably need repairs quite often, and in most cases, they're not cheap. The biggest problem that I know of with this particular model is that it may make you to never want to drive your civic again. :iceslolan

Well after the test drive, Ironman is right...the civic has got to go. :smile:

Overall the car was in really good shape...the guy needs to get the interior cleaned and detailed, but there were no holes or major abrasions to the leather interior. One ding on the exterior on the drivers side. The engine was completely clean... I mean it looked brand new like he polished it with a toothbrush. It felt very tight for a car with over 100k miles on it...he put in a new clutch recently and it was very reponsive.

It dooes need new rear brakes, a fixed brake light and some detailing, but I think if he takes care of that, and my mechanic signs off on it... Ill offer the guy $11.5 for it...think thats reasonable for a 99 323is with 114k miles?

Mileage-wise, it's awfully high for a 5-year old car. Make sure to check it's history from carfax, making sure it hasn't gone thru some major accident or even as a salvage car.

Goodluck! Later, I'm sure you'll want to do mods, as it is underpowered, compared to the 328 or the 330.