Advice on what to look for on an e36 328i coupe.

[JohnnyThunders]

For a few weeks i have been looking for a new motor, particularly a local e30, but with work commitments growing i cannot keep turning up at customers houses and businesses in a tatty 320i (sig). I don't have much budget, as i am sinking everything into the business, but i am not the sensible type, so im never going to buy a Golf diesel. Anyways ive decided to buy an e36 - i know its not an e30 but im looking at a 328i coupe for very little money, just would like any info on what to look out for. The car has 160k on the clock.

[E30BeemerLad]

first thing is to ask questions about the engine as they are known for problems with the nikasil bore linings on the block. Some were replaced under warranty with more nikasil ones I believe (may be wrong) others were replaced with an alusil block. Although sometimes if the car has done mileage and not used for lots of short journeys they can be ok.

If the car has history then worth looking for this or givng a dealer the VIN number and asking about it.

Otherwise it's just the usual stuff I guess, some with experience of them may tell more

I admire your attitude to avoiding the diesel golf etc