1996 BMW 3-Series Review Summary & Specs

318Ti Hatchback
A textbook example of how to improve on excellence.

Summary & Specs

reviewed by New Car Test Drive

Although the BMW 328 line has some worthy competitors--the new Audi A4 comes to

mind--it's still the standard by which other cars in this class will be judged.

Its styling is compelling, its quality almost flawless, its list of standard features

generous and its handling exceptional, particularly with the sport suspension.

The new engine puts extra power right where it's most likely to provide the most

benefit--in the low and middle part of the engine speed range--and the well-appointed

interior strikes a near-perfect balance between sport and luxury.

The price of entry isn't cheap. But the rewards that go with ownership of this car

make it well worth the money.

Specs

Vehicle Category Midsize Cars
Editor Tony Swan
Model Lineup
Engines (standard) 2.8-liter dohc 16v inline 6-cyl.
Transmissions (standard) 5-speed manual
Engines (optional) 138-hp dohc 16v 4-cyl. (318, Z3)
Transmissions (optional)
Safety Equipment (standard) ABS, dual airbags
Safety Equipment (optional)
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Assembled In Germany
Manufacturer Phone 1-800-334-4BMW
Manufacturer URL www.bmwusa.com
Base Price MSRP $32,900

Specs as Tested

Model Tested MSRP 328i sedan
Standard Equipment Automatic climate control, power sunroof, AM/FM/cassette sound system, power windows, power mirrors, 8-way power seats, power locks, cruise control, tilt steering
Destination Charge
Options as Tested (MSRP) Leather seating, sport suspension, 16-in. alloy wheels, trip computer, sport seats, P225/50ZR-16 performance tires
Gas Guzzler Tax
Layout
Price as Tested $35,525
Horse Power 190 @ 5300
Torque 207 @ 3950
Fuel Economy 20/29
Wheelbase 106.3
Length/Width/Height 174.5/66.9/54.6
Track Front/Rear 55.4/55.9
Turning Radius 34.1
Seating Capacity 5
Front Head/Hip/Leg room 37.1/NA/41.4
Middle Head/Hip/Leg room
Rear Head/Hip/Leg room 36.7/NA/34.0
Trunk Volume 10.3
Payload
Towing Capacity
Front Suspension Independent
Rear Suspension Independent
Ground Clearance
Curb Weight 3120
Stock Tires P205/60R-15
Brakes Front/Rear disc/disc
Fuel Capacity 16.4

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