HELP!!! BMW E36 - 325 OR 323 - WHATS THE DIFFERENCE?

[The V8]

I am looking to buy an E36 3 series convertible, i was looking for a 325 or a 328.

I noticed that they made a 323, in both the 323 and 325 they have 2.5 L engines.

What is the difference between these two cars?

Which is better?

Also if anyone has a 323, 325 or 328 Cabriolet for sale let me know.

All help will be hugely appreciated.

Kindest Regards

Luke

[missing the VR6]

I think from doing a little research last month into e36's the 323 has 170 bhp the 325 180 bhp and the 328 190bhp. There was also a difference in the 0-60 times. Really nice cars, a guy I know in the gym has a 323 and thinks it's pretty good. I bought myself an e30 325 vert in the end, but kind of wish I'd gone for an e36.

[The V8]

Hi

Many thanks for your help!

If you get a good E30 they are phenomenal cars!

[missing the VR6]

No probs mare, yeah the e30 has been good so far bar a rather problematic immobiliser!

[Fox-]

325i = M50B25

323i = M52B25
328i = M52B28

The M52 series of engines replaced the M50 in 1994. The 325 vanished at this point.

[bazking69]

To put it simply, a 323 is a 325 with a 320 inlet manifold.

[Fox-]

bazking69 said:

To put it simply, a 323 is a 325 with a 320 inlet manifold.

No it's not, the 323 is an M52 and the 325 is an M50.

[Mingo]

The 323 has an aluminium block, restricted inlet manifold, and single exhaust system(from the manifold back) which results in 170bhp and 180lb/ft of torque.

The 325 has an iron block and a twin exhaust system resulting in 192bhp and 180lb/ft of torque.

As to which is better, the 325 is the more rev hungry motor which pulls all the way to the redline, compared to the 323 which starts to tail off at around 5500rpm . The 323 is more frugal though, and changing the inlet manifold for a modified 325 one is a simple way of releasing more power.

[D5ACT]

Luke

I have never driven a 325 but have driven both the 323 and the 328.

The 323 was a fine drive but did feel a little off the pace especially when you try the 328 engine.

Though if you do go for either the 323 or the 328 make sure it doesn't suffer from Nikasil bore wear.

I ended up plumping for a 328 Convertible (with the double Vanos engine) 2 years ago and have enjoyed every minute of it. Even though the car is a 9 years old now it still turns heads and feels great to drive.

My mum bought an E46 and although loves it she prefers the responsive drive of the E36.

I am going to put it up for sale week after next so if you are interested then give me a message. I'm located in Bournemouth.

[bazking69]

Fox- said:

bazking69 said:

To put it simply, a 323 is a 325 with a 320 inlet manifold.

No it's not, the 323 is an M52 and the 325 is an M50.

Both are 2.5 straight six engines. Both are fine engines. Both are reliable (providing you haven't got an engine with Nikasil bores)
The M50 is simply the previous generation of engine.
So again, and engine codes/details aside, a 323 is a restricted 325 (2.5)
Seriously, don't get hung up on engine codes and what comes down to minor power output and delivery differences when choosing, either will be a fine choice and the most important thing is finding a decent car with either engine IMO as lets face it, the E36 is getting on and there are plenty of dogs about out there.