[Socmel]

Hi all. I am a newbie here and am looking for some advice. I am looking at buying 2000/01 316 or 318. Please excuse my ignorance, but the engine size for both is 1.9 and so I am trying to figure out where the differences are. I know that the BHP is different, slightly. People have mentioned the 'underpower' issue of both cars, but I have to be honest and say that I dont really notice the power issue in cars, and I mainly do city driving.

I drove a 316 and it seemed nice enough and had enough power (for a 10 mintue test drive!). The Facelift 2002 model E46 is a bit out of my budget. Ideally i would go for the 318, but i have been offered a 316 in great shape, 55k miles and one owner, from a good dealer. Its the SE spec also. So I am a bit torn. I would buy it, but want to be sure that there is not anything that I am missing. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Mant thanks

 

[badj]

A 2001 316 is a 1.9 as you mentioned, have 105bhp, 0-60 is 12secs, 35mpg claimed
The 98-2001 318s are 1895cc (1.9) as you say, 0-60 is around 11secs and have 118bhp, 30mpg claimed
The 2001 onwards 318s are 1995cc (2.0 litre) and have 140bhp, 0-60 is about 9 seconds, about 38mpg claimed


That may help you out..

 

[Ronnie]

Also have a look here http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/carbycar/index.htm?md=36&

 

[Socmel]

Thanks for you advice so far. Does anyone have a 316 and can give some tips on what its like/what to look for?

Thanks