Buying advice for an E36 323 coupe

[willE36]

Hello all,

I've used PH a lot over the last 10 months or so, but have only just registered.
I'm buying an E36 323 coupe in August, and so am looking into maintenance / running costs.
I know about the Nikasil issue, but how can I tell (by looking at the car), whether it has had a replacement block? (I know BMW recalled Nikasil models, and replaced them with either Alusil or Steel liners, and models made after Week 10 1998 have steel liners, and so are not affected)

Also, at what sort of mileage can replacement parts be needed? Don't know if this helps, but I'm looking to spend up to £2500 on it, with a further £800 for upgrades. I have been monitoring prices of these cars on here and also Autotrader, and they vary A LOT over the months.

Anything you guys can tell me will help. I've been trying to get hold of info, but limited access to the web (bloody virgin!) and uni work make it increasingly difficult.

Does anyone know what figures I can expect for MPG?

Thanks in advance for your help / suggestions.

Will

= )

[David87M3]

Have a look at the engine block just above the starter motor. if there is a hole its Nikasil block. If its the later there will be a bolt in the threaded hole (hex type) and a brass plate nearby the size of a 5p coil.
There use to be some pics describing what i am saying but I cant find any.
Also if the car is a post week 10 1998 it should be later type.
Or ring BMW with vin number and they should tell you.

Found link with pics
http://forum.bmwcarmagazine.com/viewtopic.php?t=40...

Edited by David87M3 on Tuesday 12th May 20:15

[willE36]

Thanks for this mate.
Did you have one?
What can I expect in terms of fuel consumption? I'm guessing high 20s / low 30s?

Cheers,

Will = )

[JimexPL]

willE36 said:

Thanks for this mate.
Did you have one?
What can I expect in terms of fuel consumption? I'm guessing high 20s / low 30s?
Cheers,
Will = )

Ours gets anywhere between 25 and 38mpg depending on how it has been driven.
A remap livens the 323 up quite a bit without having to resort to the manifold and throttle body mod that will suck up a chunk of your budget.
Expect the suspension to be tired unless it has been renewed recently.
The water pump and radiator will also be on their way out unless recently replaced.
Other than that, they are good all round motors. Good ones without accident damage shouldn't have any visible body rust, other than perhaps on the rear arches, which can be prevented by cleaning the area behind where the inner arch meets the body.