New Guy with Automatic Transmission

[bondo3]

Hi Yall. Just found this forum. I work at a body shop/used car lot. Driven BMW last 25 years. A couple years ago bought a Volvo wagon when the E30 broke time belt. Enjoyed hauling stuff in it. Volvo is now crushed. Had a trade in at the shop today of a 98 318ti. I could haul stuff in it! I can get a good deal on it as it has paint issues(no prob for me). I think it looks kinda cool, but it has an auto trans. All my E21's and E30's over the years have had 5 speed sticks. I have not driven it yet as it is getting the once over from the mechanic. The 4 cyl/auto thing bugs me though. I won't be on the track or auto crossing just around town but I have a feeling power will be an issue. Car is super clean inside no cracks or tears. Am I just being a snob to pass on this car? I am driving a 77 F100 now at 9 miles/gal. Have been looking for months for an E30 in my price range that runs decent but no luck. $2500 buys this 318 with 27000 miles. Thanks!

[BlackBMWs]

27000 miles for $2500? If in good shape and runs well? Pics?

[bondo3]

Sorry, 172000 miles. Typing while sleepy.

[Boffalora]

Depends on what you're planning to do with it. If the car is in basically good shape except for the paint, $2500 is reasonable.

I drive a completely stock automatic 4cyl 97 'ti (I previously owned a 96 same) and have been happy with both cars as daily drivers. For BMWs they're remarkably cheap to maintain. The engine happily uses synthetic blend oil and the French-built GM transmission uses Dexron ATF.

If you decide you want to upgrade anything on the 'ti there are plenty of aftermarket parts to satisfy your craving. Or, just leave it stock. Up to you. For $2500, buy it, maintain it and perhaps respray it.

[bondo3]

Got some pics of the car today and started body work on hood. If I can figure out how to transfer images from phone to computer I will post them.

[bondo3]

Working on the hood. Nice seats and dash.