- 146,566
- La Porte, TX
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- autoshopper.com
1996 bmw 3 series review this car review is specific to this model, not the actual vehicle for sale. Although it's a modest update on its predecessor, the 325i, modest doesn't mean that updates aren't substantial. Bmw doesn't do things just for show. we had a chance to drive the 328i sedan and 328is coupe in the wide open spaces of nevada and california, a trek that wound its way from death valley--at 282 ft. Below sea level, the lowest point in the country--to the mammoth mountain ski area, some 8000 ft. The combination of trim dimensions, wide track and limited front overhang--the portion of the car that extends beyond the front wheels--gives the 3-series family an exceptionally purposeful appearance, lean, mean and action-ready. this is a large family. In addition to the 328i sedan and 328is coupe, coupe, it includes the 318ti hatchback coupe 20,560), 318i sedan and 318is coupe 25,950 and $27,700, respectively), the 318i convertible 32,750), 328i convertible 41,390) and, a close cousin, the 2-seat z3 roadster 28,750). an update on the 240-hp hot rod m3 coupe will be along later this year. the biggest news in the new 328s lies under the hood, where a 2. 8-liter inline 6-cyl. Engine replaces the previous 2. 5-liter version. The new engine generates 190 hp at 5300 rpm, compared to 189 at 5900 for the 325i, and it will propel the car up to 128 mph, which is where the electronic speed limiter kicks in. Getting from zero to 60 mph is a matter of about 7 seconds. but the improvement in torque--207 lb.-ft. At 3950 rpm vs. 181 at 4200--is what's really noticeable. The 328i provides impressive pulling power, even at high altitudes in 5th gear, and the inline 6-cyl. Is smoother than ever. transmission choices are the usual--5-speed manual standard, 4-speed automatic optional 975). Wheelbase is proportionately quite long, a key factor in its ride quality and good looks. By epa classification, it's actually a subcompact, but it's actually more spacious than that. interiorlike other bmws, the 328s provide a driver command center that conjures up images of light aircraft--businesslike analog dials placed for optimum visibility, key controls placed within easy reach, everything illuminated in a reddish glow by night, to reduce driver eyestrain. audio and climate controls are mounted well up in the center of the dash, and in a car this size nothing is hard to reach. the seats are typical bmw, which is to say sporty, supportive and long-haul comfortable. The snug feeling augments the sporty character of the car, and 8-way power adjustability makes the car tailorable for virtually any body type. the basic upholstery material is a high-grade leatherette. Aluminum alloy wheels with zr-rated tires, plus a sportier seat configuration, with more pronounced thigh and torso bolstering. front seat leg and headroom is ample, which is typical of most small sedans and coupes. In fact, it's more than consistent. Major comfort/convenience features like automatic climate control, an am/fm/cassette sound system, power windows and mirrors, keyless remote entry, cruise control and even a power sunroof. passive safety features are current with the automotive mainstream--dual airbags, side impact protection and height-adjustable upper seatbelt anchors. Bmw has begun introducing side airbags in its more expensive models, but that technology hasn't trickled down to this level yet. Traction control is available as an $1100 option. active safety is a stronger suit at bmw. The power rack and pinion steering, which varies the level of assist according to engine--rather than vehicle--speed is on the light side in terms of across-the-board effort, but it's bmw-precise and enhances the car's excellent sense of control. bmw has been making ride-quality improvements in all its recent cars, and that applies to the new 328i. The basic 328i sedan has enough suspension compliance to sop up small bumps and potholes without transmitting the shocks to the occupants. P205/60r) mounted on 16-in. Wheels on the basic sedan. Ride quality is firmer, and it's easier to feel those small bumps, but we prefer the enhanced crisper handling response. the new 2. 8-liter engine is a joy to live with. Bmw has been building inline 6-cyl. Engines for a long time, a corporate powertrain priority based on the inherently low vibration traits of this configuration. This latest update is as smooth as any that bmw has produced, and as we noted earlier it's got plenty of grunt in the lower rpm ranges, something that's not true of all small-displacement multi-valve powerplants. in addition to the near-absence of vibration and impressive power, the 2. 8-liter six is also exceptionally quiet at most operating speeds. Allied with good aerodynamic traits and extra sound insulation, this adds up to a quieter passenger cabin. the 328's braking performance is world-class. All models have large brake rotors at both ends of the car--11. 3-in. Rear--and all the rotors are ventilated for improved cooling. Stops are quick, sure and repeatable. But the rewards that go with ownership of this car make it well worth the money. assembled ingermany. options as testedleather seating, sport suspension, 16-in. Alloy wheels, trip computer, sport seats, p225/50zr-16 performance tires. model tested328i sedan. AM/FM✔ Power Windows✔ Climate Control✔ Cruise Control✔ Sunroof/Moonroof✔ Alloy Wheels
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