Owner Review: Stays true to being 'Sheer Driving Pleasure' - My BMW 318i (E30)​

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Basic information about my car:

BMW 318i (E30)

Reasons why I bought this car(purpose):

When I was looking to change my car, I decided to look for a Continental rather than a Japanese one because of the safety and performance factors.

Car selection process

• I had a budget of: RM25,000 to 30,000
• Models that I have considered include: Mercedes 190e, Fiat Tempra and Citroen ZX

Reasons why I chose this car:

I looked at several models including Mercedes, Fiat and Citroen. Overall I found this car to be the most affordable in terms of maintenance. It was also the most stylish looking as well as Sporty. But the main reason I chose this car above the rest was that it was a Manual shift.

User Experience

I have done: 60,000 KM

My average fuel consumption is: 8 KM/L

The BMW e30 is a reliable daily car or as a Sports sedan. It is very agile and is very suitable for those in their early 20's as a first BMW. Parts are readily available at a low price. Overall maintenance is equivalent to a Wira with the exception of albeit certain parts. The cockpit was angled towards the driver, unlike any other car I've seen of its time.

Pros and Cons

Pros of my car

1. This model is a true Driver's car. It is fun to drive and wonderfully responsive at the throttle
2. The handling and cornering is excellent.  Even at high speeds turns and bends the car grips to the road like a leech.
3. Styling is Subtle & Sporty
4. Massive aftermarket. After 30 years, this car still fetches close to RM30,000.

Cons

1. The dashboard tends to crack as it ages. (Best to not park it directly under the sun)
2. The “idle control valve” which regulates and maintains the engine idle speed tends to give way more often than not 
3. The steering coupling gives way
4. These problems are mainly caused by the heat and road conditions here

 Total Score: 5

Performance: 5

Quality & Features: 5

Space: 4

Ride comfort: 4

Fuel Economy: 5

Price & cost: 5

Summary:

After deciding on the BMW E30, I added some body kits and changed the color to Ferrari Red. As I drove it around it turned heads and compliments from onlookers. Performance wise it was pure pleasure. The car responds immediately as you hit the accelerator. The roar of the exhaust gave you the feel of a Muscle car. There is an excitement that is created deep inside every time you drive the car. Still one of the best cars I've driven. It's true to BMW's slogan of “ Sheer Driving Pleasure”. 

Interesting Events:

Since the launch of this car, I had always dreamt of owning and driving but I was too young to drive. When the opportunity came I couldn't pass it up. Everywhere you drove, people would stare at the car.  One time, I and my friend had to go to Ipoh urgently. We left KL at 4am. The highways were empty so I could push the car to its limits (or rather my limits). Although the road was foggy and dark in certain areas, we managed to reach Ipoh in less than 90 mins. 

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