1991 BMW 3-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.73/5 Average
40 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

In an effort to make 3 Series ownership more affordable, BMW adds four-cylinder versions of the sedan, coupe and convertible to the lineup -- these models take the name "318." Output is rated at 134 horsepower, and a five-speed manual is the only transmission choice. Standard equipment on these cars includes antilock brakes, a driver-side front airbag, air conditioning, a cassette player and power windows, mirrors and locks. A limited-slip differential is optional, as is a sunroof on the coupe and sedan. Meanwhile, the 325i convertible now comes with a power-operated top and cross-spoke alloy wheels; additionally, it gets integrated body-color bumpers and new headlights. Note that this is your last year to get your hands on a coupe or sedan of the E30 generation, as both body styles will get a full redesign for 1992.

Pros:
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 40.00
  • Great Car - 1991 BMW 3-Series
    By -

  • Amazing car - 1991 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Bought mine a month ago with 178,000 miles on it. Other then missing a few trim pieces the car is perfect. After market performance suspension is the only thing that has been done. I have owned some very fun cars in the past (2006 gto) and those cars are great in a straight line. But i have learned to appreciate corners with this little car. What the 1.8 ltr m42 lacks in off the line power it makes up for in high rpms and the ability to take corners at rediculous speeds. And still feel in control.

  • LOVE my Bimmer! - 1991 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    My first one was carried away by katrina. I loved it so much, I bought another just like it. It had 189k miles on it when I got it and now Ive owned it for 4 years. Fuel mileage is around 30+ as long as ac is not running. Extremely fun to drive! Ive only had to do maintenance on it (shocks, brake pads, etc). And of course new wheels and tires. I also had a turbine exhaust installed which made it quite a bit peppier and increased my gas mileage slightly. Now I have over 200k on it and am about to finally replace the timing chain, water pump, and fan clutch. Most expensive part was the top, which was around 2k installed. My new Acura sits in the driveway undriven. =)

  • My New Baby - 1991 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I just bought this car, and in doing so I have learned a hard lifes lesson. Have you car inspected before buying. I have not received the bill on repairs yet, but my trusty mechanic is ringing up some numbers and I dont expect them to be cheap. I have to over haul the entire suspension front and rear and then replace the clutch and fix a crazy amount of leaks that began after the 3 hour drive home after purchasing plus many many more items. After all this though, I freaking LOVE this car and no amount of money will force me to part from the sexy style and classic feel. Even on bad suspension she drove like a dream. Its my first classic BMW and definitely wont be my last.

  • love my red - 1991 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Almost didnt buy this sweet little car, then the dealer dropped the price, so I took a closer look. Car had no working ac, was dripping oil like crazy, and had steering wheel wobble. I took a leap of faith and went for it. I went to work on the ac problem first preparing myself for the first big bimmer bill. It was missing a 12 buck belt. Then I tackled the oil leak. Loose bolts attaching the oil pan. Tightened them up and it hasnt leaked a drop since. Steering wheel vibration was caused by someone adding aftermarket momo wheels and not using hub centric spacer rings with the rotor extensions. This car currently has 198k miles and just flat out drives and corners like a dream. Love it.

  • Artie, my fiery red beamer - 1991 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I just purchased my 1991 BMW 318is coupe. I was looking for a car to replace my 1994 Volvo 850 I loved my Volvo but it was literally falling apart. I wanted to purchase a Land Rover Discovery Series SUV, but read so many bad reviews on this vehicle. My son and I were looking at cars at my favorite car lot my son spotted the BMW at the back of the lot. It caught our eye. It was a one owner car in excellent condition one look and we were hooked. I made an offer and the car was mine. My son and I waxed Artie and scented him with air freshener. Everywhere we go people ask where did you get that car. It is definitely an eye capturer. My son says, arent you glad I made you give up the Volvo.

  • Great car! - 1991 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I just recently got a 318is and it is a fun little car to drive. It has almost 200,000 miles on it and needs some things like new struts, rack and pinion, timing chain. It handles pretty good and I get pretty good mpgs when I dont drive it hard.

  • Love this car - 1991 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I have had many cars in my life but this is my favorite. I just love this car. The timeless classic style and she handles great. This is my first BMW. I bought it on a whim for $1800 and instantly fell in love with her. She runs great but needs some minor fixes. My new passion and hobby will be to provide all the TLC she needs and restore her to the ultimate driving machine she was meant to be.

  • Love driving it - 1991 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    This car replaced my old Honda CRX, itself a marvelous car. My 318i is truly an amazing car, looks gorgeous and drives like a race car. VERY stable at high speeds, outsanding on turns. Repairs can be high, but there is no new car out there that compares, so it is worth the cost. Never thought I would "miss" a car like I do this one when Im in another car. Looks, handling and fun to drive, although rather unrefined by todays standards. I plan to update the suspension and brakes soon, have replaced water pump, radiator and all hoses. At 200,000 miles, this car runs great!

  • Will buy another great car! - 1991 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Ive owned this car for just over two years now. I have looked into selling it to buy a new, nicer BMW 5 series and was unable to sell this old 3 series! It is a great driver, one of the funnest on the road that I have been in. 17 years old and its still put together well. This car is so small it can park anywhere, and with great gas mileage it is the perfect city car. I have recently put in over $7,000 to restore this car to like-new condition - ITS THAT GOOD. :)

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