+Christopher Widick awesome man! It is a blast and definitely a different feel than other cars. BMW does a good job on making the drivetrain feel solid and connected
Spot on man! I own a 2000 323CI as well & love everything that you mentioned about it! Really fun car to drive! Lots of power for it's size & it hugs the road while cornering like no other! BMW technology is 2nd to none! Great video! Thanks
Okay so for everyone who is a first time BMW owner thinking about buying this car PLEASE read this whole comment. I recently got a 2000 (I think thats the only year they were made, when I took mine to BMW for repairs the mechanics would always comment on how much they loved it because they only made so many and their fairly rare) because my 2011 Hyundai Sonata was totaled out; I was hit at a dead stop by a kid texting going 40 mph. My case was settled out at 8,750 and I got my 323 with 123,xxx miles for 6,750(price includes a year long/12,000 mile warranty). Right off the bat I was told I over paid and that I could get a much better deal on a way better BMW, however I didnt care much at the time because I really liked the car. All white leather interior, tinted windows a kickin' system, as a 19 year old girl I was very happy. However I quickly began to notice small, annoying things start to happen. The back windshield sometimes leaks, the motor for the two back windows only work when they feel like it and for some fucking reason the sun roof will only close if cover is in the exact right place (ive had to reach inside the car and pull it out myself a few times which is fucking insane when trying to drive on the high way and god is just like 'LOL FUCK YOU ALEAH HERES SOME RAIN GOOD LUCK). But the biggest and I MEAN BIGGEST issue I have with this car is that EVERY FUCKING TIME A SPARK PLUG FOULS OUT, THE CAR WILL NOT START AND NOT ONLY WILL IT NOT START BUT IT'S DIED ON ME WHILE DRIVING BECAUSE OF THIS. When taken to the mechanic they just say 'its a sports edition BMW so it was built on a different standard that some of the other ones, a 5 or 7 series could run with 3 spark plugs out because their not sports cars'. That being said its about $100 doing it yourself from home with parts from auto zone (that you have to wait a few days on because most have to order them because its a special model BMW and most parts are not kept in stalk) BUT that all being said, I dont think I would trade my 323 for except a better BMW sports car. Its fun as hell to drive, looks fucking amazing and the only real problem i've had with it was needing a new fuel pump. Old cars are a lot to handle and are EXPENSIVE even for most well paid adults, you have to take care if your car in order for it to take care of you. I get complements everywhere I go and its always nice to have someone say 'WOW, thats a 2000?!? Its nicer than my brand new *insert generic car here!!" These cars are great but there still old cars that need love, if you're sure you can afford than I say go for it. I think it means something that people still love and seek to buy what is almost a 17 year old car, you dont see that often.
Aleah, I can definitely relate to a lot of this comment, especially how people thought that the car was much newer than it actually was. Unfortunately, I sold the car and purchased something newer (2016 VW Golf) because of the little things that kept coming up that needed to be continually replaced. In all, the platform of a BMW has a special, balanced, premium feel to it that is very hard to replace.
aleah marie You over payed by a lot. I got a 150k Mile one for $2000. Everything works, and aside from a belt and tensioner I replaced (which I got the tensioner off of my old e30) I haven't had any issues in 7 months. I take good care of it, and keep it well. You had special issues and obviously got ripped off. Seriously, you could've gotten an e90 and better condition
True, the styling of the car doesn’t make it appear as a 2000 model year car. How was the car regarding reliability, bmws usually are notorious for expensive repairs and maintenance. Ever have any serious issues? And how many miles were on it when it u sold it off? Was yours the 5speed manual or automatic?
The car was great fun at first, then the wave of problems came for me. First was the power steering rack which whould occasionally bind up on me. Not a common problem but a complete PITA. Other issues were associated with sensors and electronics. The main components of the car were in great shape, but surface rust started to creep which was one of the main reasons I didn't fix other things and sold the car. Car was a 5 speed which was fantastic. I sold it with about 170k miles.
I got a black and chrome sports package one about a year ago, paid a little under 6,000. Tbh this is one of the best cars Ive ever had. Its had a few big problems but that would happen to ANY old car, fuel pump and a wheel bearing. Other than that its been all dumb little shit, some fuses, some spark plugs and patching up a few leaks during the rainy season. The only thing I dislike is that its to old for an AUX port and to new for a tape deck. But these 323s are rare and still in high demand, I plan on keeping mine totally stock until I can get vintage plates, according to the people at the BMW store if its in perfect condition when it hits 20 years there going to skyrocket in value but odds are ill keep it anyway.
Dave Smith if you plan on doing to work yourself, it’s not all that bad. I found that there are good websites to get quality non-bmw but OEM quality parts as well. If I was to purchase another I would be sure the previous owner did the proper maintenance. The car in this video had annoying electronic problems and a power steering issue which is why I sold it. Other than that, it was a very fun car to own.
Hey Mike good night Bimmer!! Congrats friend! I also have Bmw,but are E36; Love Bmw sice I was 15 years,now,my first bmw E36 have with me 17 years and make a swap to 318is hehehe I live in Barcelona,born to Barcelona,concretly,Vilassar de Mar,nice nice to met you! I love Bmw and history man,really :) A hug Bimmer from Spain!
Hey Mike. I'm thinking of buying one of these as a first car. Would you think it's suitable? I'm also looking at a Peugeot 206 GTi, however the iconic 6 cylinder BMW engine and RWD make me want the BMW more. They both have similar fuel economy, but the BMW is more expensive and has a few more kilometres on it. Not to mention the badge. Would you think it's worth it? Thanks.
Hi there! I don't know much about Peugeot's so I won't be able to offer much there. As far as BMW's go, the BMW platform is really something special. Finding a BMW that has been taken care of and that wont need more work than you are expecting, however, is very difficult. I would highly recommend bringing the car to a reliable mechanic that knows BMW's well to take a thorough inspection of the car. Here in the United States, this usually costs $50-$200 depending on how thorough the inspection is. I found mine to be mechanically sound, but the sensors and electronics drove me crazy! Good luck on the search!
+Mike VT the sensors and electronics go our often and are expensive? I'm looking at 2000 323ci for $1990. other than that, if it was well maintained and taken care of... I should be fine?
The Lost French Fries Iv repaired mine a few times, however, it has spend more time on the road, than in the shop! German Enginering is quality work! Maintain your vehical & it can pass the 250k mark!
Definitely on the road more. I would strongly encourage a pre purchase inspection from a reputable shop to get an idea of what may or may not need work. Well worth the money.
I'm looking at buying one of these or a Impreza. They are both around the same mileage and price but damn the BMW looks nicer and the guy took real good care of it except for the two missing small grills in the front. I've only worked on Japanese and American cars and the BMW is around 195,000KM and I know parts are going to be expensive if anything needs fixing but insurance is probably going to be way higher right, rather than an Subaru Impreza? Question does anyone drive one of these in the winter with rear wheel drive and how is it? I live in Canada so its not like a sprinkle of snow, it's going to be lots of snow and ice.
Parts ARE going to be more in every way for the BMW. As for driving in the snow, as long as you have quality winter tires and are more aware of hills and have the ability to control a "drift", you will be fine. I'm in Vermont and had no problems coming from driving subarus. What year impreza?
It's a 2002 Impreza. Needs some work like timing belt, front stab links, a few codes I can take care of before the E-Test. Old lady driven so it's in good shape for the year. I only need it for a year then I'll upgrade. I worked on a lot of Subarus and imports and can get parts for that a bit cheaper. I got her worked down to $500 since it would cost her $1000 for a belt, $500 for a CAT, $100 for links, $150 for her evap problem not including labour. Subaru was going to give her $100 for a trade in when she bought a new car so I told her $500 and I'll do all the work myself. The BMW guy wants $2000 with no E-test or safety and any problems come up with that thing is going to cost abit more coin but it looks nice. Saw another one but 4 door for $3000 with E-test and safety included so I'm kind of juggling my hands. They are all around 190,000KM so high mileage euro cars are probably going to have electrical problems which cost the most. Winters hitting soon to and you know how subarus drive through snow, like butter. It's more fun than dangerous with all wheel drives you know? Long comment sorry bro
"probably going to have electrical problems which cost the most" - This 100%. if the Subaru isn't too rusty, it might be the better choice out of the two.
I am 26 years old and this is my first (stateside) car. I absolutely love it, nothing I've ever driven beats it.
+Christopher Widick awesome man! It is a blast and definitely a different feel than other cars. BMW does a good job on making the drivetrain feel solid and connected
Spot on man! I own a 2000 323CI as well & love everything that you mentioned about it! Really fun car to drive! Lots of power for it's size & it hugs the road while cornering like no other! BMW technology is 2nd to none! Great video! Thanks
Are they worth anything? If someone took care of it and kept it low mileage, would it be worth anything in 15 years from now?
I have got 323ci Year 2000, silver with Grey leather, 87000 m now , Magic Cruiser, I love it
Awesome!
Are they worth anything? If someone took care of it and kept it low mileage, would it be worth anything in 15 years from now?
I have a 2001 330ci, 160,000 miles, runs like shit, love it.
Travis Scott that sounds about right!
Yeah dude I just got this car and I love it!!!! By far my favorite
+Jonathan Daughenbaugh Definitely a fun ride!
Okay so for everyone who is a first time BMW owner thinking about buying this car PLEASE read this whole comment.
I recently got a 2000 (I think thats the only year they were made, when I took mine to BMW for repairs the mechanics would always comment on how much they loved it because they only made so many and their fairly rare) because my 2011 Hyundai Sonata was totaled out; I was hit at a dead stop by a kid texting going 40 mph. My case was settled out at 8,750 and I got my 323 with 123,xxx miles for 6,750(price includes a year long/12,000 mile warranty). Right off the bat I was told I over paid and that I could get a much better deal on a way better BMW, however I didnt care much at the time because I really liked the car. All white leather interior, tinted windows a kickin' system, as a 19 year old girl I was very happy. However I quickly began to notice small, annoying things start to happen. The back windshield sometimes leaks, the motor for the two back windows only work when they feel like it and for some fucking reason the sun roof will only close if cover is in the exact right place (ive had to reach inside the car and pull it out myself a few times which is fucking insane when trying to drive on the high way and god is just like 'LOL FUCK YOU ALEAH HERES SOME RAIN GOOD LUCK). But the biggest and I MEAN BIGGEST issue I have with this car is that EVERY FUCKING TIME A SPARK PLUG FOULS OUT, THE CAR WILL NOT START AND NOT ONLY WILL IT NOT START BUT IT'S DIED ON ME WHILE DRIVING BECAUSE OF THIS.
When taken to the mechanic they just say 'its a sports edition BMW so it was built on a different standard that some of the other ones, a 5 or 7 series could run with 3 spark plugs out because their not sports cars'. That being said its about $100 doing it yourself from home with parts from auto zone (that you have to wait a few days on because most have to order them because its a special model BMW and most parts are not kept in stalk)
BUT that all being said, I dont think I would trade my 323 for except a better BMW sports car. Its fun as hell to drive, looks fucking amazing and the only real problem i've had with it was needing a new fuel pump. Old cars are a lot to handle and are EXPENSIVE even for most well paid adults, you have to take care if your car in order for it to take care of you. I get complements everywhere I go and its always nice to have someone say 'WOW, thats a 2000?!? Its nicer than my brand new *insert generic car here!!"
These cars are great but there still old cars that need love, if you're sure you can afford than I say go for it.
I think it means something that people still love and seek to buy what is almost a 17 year old car, you dont see that often.
Aleah, I can definitely relate to a lot of this comment, especially how people thought that the car was much newer than it actually was. Unfortunately, I sold the car and purchased something newer (2016 VW Golf) because of the little things that kept coming up that needed to be continually replaced. In all, the platform of a BMW has a special, balanced, premium feel to it that is very hard to replace.
so thats all you had to replace? thats not bad then
My uncle bought a manual 323ci for 2000 hope nothing happens to it
aleah marie You over payed by a lot. I got a 150k Mile one for $2000. Everything works, and aside from a belt and tensioner I replaced (which I got the tensioner off of my old e30) I haven't had any issues in 7 months. I take good care of it, and keep it well. You had special issues and obviously got ripped off. Seriously, you could've gotten an e90 and better condition
I just paid $700 for one with 209k miles
True, the styling of the car doesn’t make it appear as a 2000 model year car. How was the car regarding reliability, bmws usually are notorious for expensive repairs and maintenance. Ever have any serious issues? And how many miles were on it when it u sold it off? Was yours the 5speed manual or automatic?
The car was great fun at first, then the wave of problems came for me. First was the power steering rack which whould occasionally bind up on me. Not a common problem but a complete PITA. Other issues were associated with sensors and electronics. The main components of the car were in great shape, but surface rust started to creep which was one of the main reasons I didn't fix other things and sold the car.
Car was a 5 speed which was fantastic. I sold it with about 170k miles.
i got e46 328i for £650, spotless, no problems
I got a black and chrome sports package one about a year ago, paid a little under 6,000.
Tbh this is one of the best cars Ive ever had.
Its had a few big problems but that would happen to ANY old car, fuel pump and a wheel bearing. Other than that its been all dumb little shit, some fuses, some spark plugs and patching up a few leaks during the rainy season. The only thing I dislike is that its to old for an AUX port and to new for a tape deck.
But these 323s are rare and still in high demand, I plan on keeping mine totally stock until I can get vintage plates, according to the people at the BMW store if its in perfect condition when it hits 20 years there going to skyrocket in value but odds are ill keep it anyway.
I agree with you! Be owner of a BMW its awesome! I have the same car than you, a 2000 323Ci and I love it! You can see on my channel.
+lipecardozo awesome i'll check it out
Are they worth anything? If someone took care of it and kept it low mileage, would it be worth anything in 15 years from now?
How was the car regarding reliability, were the parts as costly as people make them out to be? I was thinking of buying one?
Dave Smith if you plan on doing to work yourself, it’s not all that bad. I found that there are good websites to get quality non-bmw but OEM quality parts as well. If I was to purchase another I would be sure the previous owner did the proper maintenance. The car in this video had annoying electronic problems and a power steering issue which is why I sold it. Other than that, it was a very fun car to own.
Hey Mike good night Bimmer!! Congrats friend! I also have Bmw,but are E36;
Love Bmw sice I was 15 years,now,my first bmw E36 have with me 17 years and make a swap to 318is hehehe
I live in Barcelona,born to Barcelona,concretly,Vilassar de Mar,nice nice to met you!
I love Bmw and history man,really :)
A hug Bimmer from Spain!
+molliarti BMW's are great!
Hey Mike.
I'm thinking of buying one of these as a first car. Would you think it's suitable? I'm also looking at a Peugeot 206 GTi, however the iconic 6 cylinder BMW engine and RWD make me want the BMW more. They both have similar fuel economy, but the BMW is more expensive and has a few more kilometres on it. Not to mention the badge. Would you think it's worth it?
Thanks.
Hi there!
I don't know much about Peugeot's so I won't be able to offer much there.
As far as BMW's go, the BMW platform is really something special. Finding a BMW that has been taken care of and that wont need more work than you are expecting, however, is very difficult. I would highly recommend bringing the car to a reliable mechanic that knows BMW's well to take a thorough inspection of the car. Here in the United States, this usually costs $50-$200 depending on how thorough the inspection is.
I found mine to be mechanically sound, but the sensors and electronics drove me crazy!
Good luck on the search!
+Mike VT the sensors and electronics go our often and are expensive? I'm looking at 2000 323ci for $1990. other than that, if it was well maintained and taken care of... I should be fine?
if only gasoline wasn't the price of gold... around 1.45€ a liter...fk that lol
Imagine this comment now
He never gave the con to bmw ownership 💀
no turn signals?
+Chris Murphy LOL
What are those??? =)
How many times did you have to repair it because I don’t want a car in the shop more than I drive it
The Lost French Fries Iv repaired mine a few times, however, it has spend more time on the road, than in the shop! German Enginering is quality work! Maintain your vehical & it can pass the 250k mark!
Definitely on the road more. I would strongly encourage a pre purchase inspection from a reputable shop to get an idea of what may or may not need work. Well worth the money.
I'm looking at buying one of these or a Impreza. They are both around the same mileage and price but damn the BMW looks nicer and the guy took real good care of it except for the two missing small grills in the front. I've only worked on Japanese and American cars and the BMW is around 195,000KM and I know parts are going to be expensive if anything needs fixing but insurance is probably going to be way higher right, rather than an Subaru Impreza? Question does anyone drive one of these in the winter with rear wheel drive and how is it? I live in Canada so its not like a sprinkle of snow, it's going to be lots of snow and ice.
Parts ARE going to be more in every way for the BMW. As for driving in the snow, as long as you have quality winter tires and are more aware of hills and have the ability to control a "drift", you will be fine. I'm in Vermont and had no problems coming from driving subarus. What year impreza?
It's a 2002 Impreza. Needs some work like timing belt, front stab links, a few codes I can take care of before the E-Test. Old lady driven so it's in good shape for the year. I only need it for a year then I'll upgrade. I worked on a lot of Subarus and imports and can get parts for that a bit cheaper. I got her worked down to $500 since it would cost her $1000 for a belt, $500 for a CAT, $100 for links, $150 for her evap problem not including labour. Subaru was going to give her $100 for a trade in when she bought a new car so I told her $500 and I'll do all the work myself. The BMW guy wants $2000 with no E-test or safety and any problems come up with that thing is going to cost abit more coin but it looks nice. Saw another one but 4 door for $3000 with E-test and safety included so I'm kind of juggling my hands. They are all around 190,000KM so high mileage euro cars are probably going to have electrical problems which cost the most. Winters hitting soon to and you know how subarus drive through snow, like butter. It's more fun than dangerous with all wheel drives you know? Long comment sorry bro
"probably going to have electrical problems which cost the most" - This 100%. if the Subaru isn't too rusty, it might be the better choice out of the two.
How much dose the insurance cost?
🎉
I was promised an upload YESTERDAY. Why you slacking?