opinions on these two bmws?

zweton

Hello,

Are the below bmws worth a look do you think? Which is the more reliable?

https://cars.donedeal.ie/cars-for-sale/bmw-e90-318i/10230365

https://cars.donedeal.ie/cars-for-sale/bmw-318-m-sport/9384904

Cheers:)

L1011

The second one seems to have the nicer radio head unit, anyway... (look at the forum)

bazz26

The first one is a basic ES model, the second one is a higher spec M Sport. I still would not pay nearly twice for the second one though. 160k miles is a bit high for that asking price imo.

Idbatterim

I agree with bazz, in a year or two, you will be giving the thing away... Id possibly go for a 5 series, what are you requirements OP?

T.Sparkie

I have one similar to the 2nd (07 318i Msport). They are a good car albeit a little underpowered for my liking but that being said I came from a 2.5 litre 5 Series. I really like how it drives, the msport as a stiffer suspension so it handles the road a little better.
I did a lot of research before buying it and I am well aware that these engines can be quite troublesome and there are a few things to look out for:
1. Blue smoke coming from the exhaust after long periods of idling or on start-up.
This could mean valve stem oil seal trouble which is just what happened mine. The car was still under warranty with Joe Duffy BMW and was done foc but they calculated the cost to be over €2,500
2. The Coil packs can give issues also which will cause starting problems or misfiring
These aren't the worst things to go wrong in the grand scheme of things but will still cost approx 200+ to put right
3. The door lock on mine had to be changed as the mechanism broke so keep an eye for that also

This wouldn't put me off buying one as all car types have horror stories but its worth keeping a vigilant eye on these things.

In terms of the 2 cars you mentioned, first one is a very basic model and the interior will be impossible to keep clean. The mileage would worry me a little bit these have timing chains and at that mileage for peace of mind I would get checked. These cars also have plastic water pumps which would definitely need checking at that mileage also wear items such as clutches would need to be checked,

The 2nd is on the opposite end of the spectrum in terms of spec in a nice colour with a lovely interior but the mileage would be a butt clencher on this aswell for the reasons stated above.

Shameless to say, I will be selling mine soon as I am due a company car next month if you are interested.
07 318i Msport in Crimson Red 85,000 Kilometres FSH and 18 Month BMW Select warranty left. Pm me if you are interested (mod please tell me if this is not allowed and I will remove).

Best of luck with the search OP, they are nice cars if kept right!