I just bought an 318 and I happy with it, plus I getting ready to do the disc brake swap, and if you know the right people, then you can get the stuff cheap and its not all that hard to do. Plus converting over to the 6 cylin. isn't that much change, but its all in how much you wat to spend. Your choice, either way you will be happy with what you get. Bmw is the car that out last them all. THIS IS JUST MY OPINION BUT I would much rather have a 325 than a 318 first of all the engine has 2 more cylinders how can you compete with that? also 325's come stock with rear disc brakes which will save you a lot of money on the conversion if you can find a cheap enough 325 i highly recommend it i think if you buy a 318 youll just end up wishing you had a 325