How much is too much $ for a high mileage M-Sport?
 

Hey everyone, recently stumbled across the 318ti when on my search for a unique, fun rallyX car. I found a '98 black 5-speed M-sport with 220k miles 1.5 hours away from home with almost no rust that's been sitting on the marketplace for a while.

More details: AC works, heat works, aftermarket stereo deck, bad window tint (ugh), M-sport wheels (claimed to be worth $750+), new front tires, new valve cover gasket, both windows work

My Dilemma: A buddy of mine came with to check it out and I really liked it. HOWEVER it left a large oil spot (about a foot in diameter) after the seller arrived while the engine was cold. I drove it a bit and it performed well - clutch felt good, no trans grinding, pulled well through the RPMs and once warmed up, it seemed the oil leak decreased but was still significant. Seller said he puts in a quart every 2 weeks. From what I've read and my experience with my E46, it sounds like it could be the oil filter housing gasket. Unfortunately no shops were open and I was unable to get the vehicle inspected so passed on the deal. I was worried that the oil leak was from something worse and if such a big issue exists, that there may be more unseen issues in the car. I offered $1200 but seller said he was firm at $2k.

My question is: how much is too much for a high mileage ti with a bad oil leak? Would it be a mistake to buy a car in such shape as this? I may contact the seller again if you folks can convince me - I really did like the car.

Sorry for the wall of text but I don't want to miss out on a unique car. :confused:

Oil filter housing is pretty common. The hardest part of the DIY for me was removing the alternator to gain access. It's also very easy to spot.

If it's just the oil filter housing, the headliner is in good shape, the door panels don't bulge inwards when lowering the windows, I'd be OK with $2K.

The wheels may have been worth $750 20 years ago. :)

Do it! If it is clean enough (body/interior - and rust, I am not familiar with dealing with rust though so someone else needs to answer that) and only has the oil leaking, then go for it. The 318ti is a fun car and with it being an M-sport it IMO is definitely worth the 2k. I payed $2850 for my non-MSport that had 118xxx miles with records and one owner 8yrs ago (just as a comparison). Besides the motor -M44- if properly maintained can last a good while.

Thanks for the responses! Your arguments were convincing enough that I paid $1900 and drove 'Black Betti' home last night. Needs a little TLC (deep clean, replacement roundel, etc) but nonetheless, even just driving the hour and a half home, I really enjoyed how well it handles (at least compared to my RSX). I'll be posting pictures and plans for it in the introduction forum as soon as I can!

Congratulations! :biggrin::biggrin: It also looks like you got another $100 off his "firm" price of $2k, nice! We look forward to seeing what you do with her.

1500-2000, pending actually seeing the car on a lift, for a complete inspection.

Happy for u, but wish u hadnt bought it. Mines for sale now, a 99 m tech with 190k miles and every gasket and coolant component replaced. Coulda gave you a badass deal

best of luck to you ....

Sold today for 3k