I am thinking about buying a 96-98 BMW 3 series. More than likely 328 series , mainly because the 318s 1.8L engine is a little too week for me.

My question is, how reliable is your average 3 series in those years. If i bought one with about 80k miles on it, what would i be needing to replace soon. Also i know its going to be manual so how much does a clutch+ install cost.

Keep in mind I have owned a Honda in the past, which kinda spoils me on reliability.

I have a 2000 328i, and i have yet to have a problem with it. I love my car, it's great. I have 63,000 miles on mine, and it runs REALLY strong. I highly recommend the 328i, ITS A GREAT CAR!! good luck!

I have a 1996 320i(2.0l Six), which has done 171,000 km's.
Have had to do one rear wheel bearing.
Windscreen washer motor failed the other day, new one was fairly cheep though.
One electric window switch.
Apart from that just the usual things like disc pads and rotors.
Oils and filters.

Also fitted a new set of Koni Adjustable Shocks recently, as the original shocks were getting a bit sad. Improved the handling immensely!

Rossco
1996 E36 320i(Euro)