Hi Everyone, I am planning on purchasing a BMW soon. I am looking to buy a BMW within the R 120k region and really like the look of the e90 edition. I have considered the earlier models but I would like a newer version than the e46. I have skimmed various threads and it appears the e90 320i is a pretty bad place to start. I would like to find out by the current and previous 320i owners their experience with the 320i. My uncle has an e90 320i and he has had it for years and still loves it. I have driven it once to the local Spar in his area and it was a smooth drive. He recommends it as an excellent starting place for a young bmw owner.
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Read the WELCOME ALL BMWFANATICS post.
I think all the threads you have read have pretty much the same consensus... Avoid the 320i and go 320d, if you must have a petrol engine, then any of the 6 cylinder models would do. The N46 is not known for reliability and has a host of issues that are not worth putting up with given the performance/desirability.
The E9x models are getting on in years now and no matter which model you choose, have a slush fund available to make sure you don't fall into the older BMW trap.
The E9x models are getting on in years now and no matter which model you choose, have a slush fund available to make sure you don't fall into the older BMW trap.
TBP88
Well-known member
Short answer - yes. They're underpowered and thus heavier on gas for general driving as you need to stress the engine more to get the thing moving. Add to that the engine being less reliable than the 6cyl engines of the era make it a bit of a downer.
Rather save more till you can get a bigger and better engined car, if you're younger maybe a 130i of the older gen will work? Great power in a small car and I'd imagine they're hovering into the low 140k mark now?
Rather save more till you can get a bigger and better engined car, if you're younger maybe a 130i of the older gen will work? Great power in a small car and I'd imagine they're hovering into the low 140k mark now?
///M Individual
Well-known member
Yes it is a bad option. There are some people that love them and have had many trouble free years like your uncle but they would be even happier in either a 320d or 6 cylinder model like stated above.
Also very important to note the additional costs you may have to spend on it being an older BMW as KPM mentioned above.
You will pay R120k for it but still have to spend another R20k or more to get everything perfect if it has not been maintained meticulously prior. This is just looking at minor wear and tear maintenance assuming the engine and gearbox are perfect.
Yulz9081
Honorary ///Member
Don't do it. I got a demo model way back when and sold it soon after, I couldn't deal with 4cyl performance but 6cyl fuel consumption. This was still on motorplan at the time so can't comment on maintenance, however I did have an E46 318i with the same engine and that maintenance was eye-watering out of plan.
Yes at the time I was a sucker for punishment.
Yes at the time I was a sucker for punishment.
