I know this is the E30zone but...

[Ranchero]

I might have the opportunity to buy an E36 320i touring.

Had a go in one today and I have to say it felt pretty good. In terms of styling/looks there is no question, E30 all day long, but I have been looking for a while for one in the right , ahem..price range and this E36 came along. What are the pitfalls I should be looking out for, or is it just general, rust etc?

[pacerpete]

E36 320s are like E30 320s, all the fuel, all the aggro, none of the go. 318 or 328 are the models of choice.

[bss325i]

A 323i is a good E36 to have as well.

325i's are M reg or older so most are nails now.

Look out for rusty rear arches, worn suspension components, cooling system issues, headgasket issues and general nastiness and bodgery as the cars are now right at the bottom of their life cycle now, firmly in banger teritory.

A nice E36 is still a good car though and can still feel modern unlike rival scrap from the '90s.

[B7]

Yeah, I'll go with that. The 323 is a nice daily. A good compromise. Never going to set the world alight but way ahead of the 320 and more "civilised" than the 328. Thats not to say the 328 is an animal, far from it but those that know will know what I mean

[capri_rob]

+1 323 Tourings are great cars - get an SE if possible - they are a lot of car for not much cash.

[Rich_W]

E36 Touring can look brillant!

[Cook318IS]

After picking up a 328i e36 touring last week i can safely say look out for rust... everywhere! The only completely safe panel on the car i bought is the sunroof