best year to buy

[ramrc1]

I am new to 318ti and would like some imput as to what year is the best year to buy?

[cev12]

I own a 96 and so far I haven't come across many problems. Very reliable, very good car.

[aceyx]

Best is a subjective standard. What objective traits are you looking for?

I'd take a well-maintained '95 base with high mileage over a poorly maintained but loaded '99 with only a few thousand miles.

[ramrc1]

Thanks , I woud like one with the m package , with low miles , if you know of any cars for sale let me know. Ramrc1@comcast.net

[96cali]

Look for a 1994 or 2000 model year. They are the best.

[tiFreak]

Originally Posted by 96cali

Look for a 1994 or 2000 model year. They are the best.

The problem with that joke is that there are 2000 318ti's (I know, I'm being too literal but I'm just saying)

[96cali]

Yes but unless they're searching in Europe they won't be confused.

To answer the original question (which has been asked before, search) no one year has more problems than the other but features changed slightly.

1995: OBDI, 1.8L M42 motor w/forged engine internals, only year for true Club Sport, no traction control but LSD optional
1996+: OBDII, 1.9L M44 w/cast internals, traction control, open air roof, some slight trouble with manual transmission popping out of first gear
1999: last year of importation (only 550 or so), M 3spoke steering wheel.

There are other changes by year documented in this site but those are the highlights IMO. If it were me I'd get a southern, under 100k sport model with a good maintenance history or blown motor to swap a 6cyl into.

[wasabinuki]

If I had to pick just based on year to get I'd pick a 99. It has the most features/factory upgrades, will probably have less mileage/cosmetic damage, and is pretty rare. If I can find a silver on black 99 ti with M package, 5-speed tranny, and Cali roof I'd sell my 97 base in a heartbeat.

[BobbyDigital]

I have a 95, with 286k miles on the original motor, transmission, and clutch.

I think 95s are best because of the m42, its bulletproof.

[S10mafia50]

M42 is most likely the better engine, but don't quote me there.....


also, wasn't 95 the only year for factory lsd in the ti???
Andrew

[DustenT]

A low mileage, well cared for 1999 would be the best year to get.

[M3_KILL3R]

im selling my car by next May if your still looking for one you can pick mine up

[kingoftraffic]

I bought this car a couple of years ago...it had around 190,000 kilometers on it.

Paid around 3000 canadian....Did the brakes and the front end steering ...

The car has around 200,000 on it now and runs like a brand new car. I love this little car and am taking it off the road and plan to keep it forever.

Do you guys think the 1995 318ti could become a collector one day??

Brent in Canada