Wise Buyer: BMW E36
One of the most sensible and satisfying purchases on the market right now, says James Walshe
James Walshe shows you how to buy BMW’S bargain 3-Series before it’s too late.
There aren’t many modern classics that combine a rewarding driving experience with such exceptional usability as successfully as an E36 BMW. After years in the shadow of its mighty E30 predecessor, BMW’S 1990 3-Series is now finding an ever-enthusiastic band of owners who love its handsome shape, build quality and – particularly in the case of the six-cylinder models – smooth but satisfyingly brisk performance. With a genuine Q-car vibe, the ultra-subtle glamour of Munich’s range of straight-sixes has begun to spark an interest among collectors and investors, meaning prices won’t be this low for very long. Here, we take you through the process of how to buy and enjoy the best.
Why you want one
It’s worth mentioning values first and foremost, as the E36 is still quite affordable when compared to other generations of 3-Series. This particular one is a great way into classic BMW ownership. Why values have remained so low is anyone’s guess, especially since the E36 was originally seen as being far more rounded, engaging and desirable than the equivalent Audi 80/A4 and Mercedes 190E – great though they were. Buyers of any E36 model will be rewarded with a superbly engineered saloon (the company began E36 development in 1981!) and in typical BMW fashion, it’s exceptionally good to drive with its ‘Z-axle’ multi-link rear suspension and smooth engines.
Clubs and online groups will lavish you with assistance too, and parts are still readily available. As you’ll find out, the E36 is also mostly very reliable, thanks to the thorough developmemt work undertaken by Munich’s supreme band of engineers.
Which one should I buy?
There were officially five different body styles, beginning with the conventional booted models. The four-door saloon and two-door coupé were built from 1990 – both lasting until almost the end of production (1998 and ’99 respectively). There was a two-door convertible from 1993, plus a five-door ‘Touring’ and three-door ‘Compact’ hatchback, both of which arrived in 1994. All got reasonable levels of kit, including airbags (from 1993), ABS and electric front windows, but appealing period options to look for include electric sunroof, climate control and leather.
Go for an early car and you’ll find a four-cylinder engine carried over from the E30. They were later upgraded with new units (M43 in 1993 and M44 in ’96). The boot badges associated with those engines are 316i, 318i and 318is.
The six-cylinder cars are badged 320i, 323i, 325i and 328i. These were launched with BMW’S M50 unit in 1990 and got variable valve timing two years later. In 1995, the 325i was replaced by a new 328i model, with its new M52 unit. Still with us? Good, as the diesels arrived in 1994. If you want one of those, you’ll be shopping for a four-cylinder 318tds or two six-cylinder diesels: 325td or 325tds.
All E36s were rear-wheel drive and got a choice of five-speed manuals and four- or five-speed automatics, depending on the model. Only the E36 M3 got a six-speed gearbox. That car was a whole different kettle of fish, as was the Alpina E36. If you want to go for the full Alpina Q-car experience, you’ll have to choose between the subtle B6 2.8, B3 3.0, B3 3.2 and the B8 4.0 and B8 4.6 V8 monsters. For the discerning driver who couldn’t quite justify shelling out the extra for the highly strung M3 or Alpinas, the 328i Sport was absolutely the one to have. It’s our tip for future stardom, anyway. While Tourings are desirable and Convertibles command higher prices, the Compact is generally unloved. We rather like the idea of a grunty rear-wheel drive hatchback. ‘Modern day’ Lotus Sunbeam or Vauxhall Chevette, anyone?
What should I look for?
Beware of the dogs! There are still many clunkers around, many of which wear terrible boy-racer