Don't underestimate 2 cyl! (archive)

: I just started looking at E36s. So far, I've driven a 97 318ic, a 95 325i, and a 96 328i. All were 5 speeds. As expected, the 328i had the best acceleration. The 318 did not excite me much. But then again, I don't need a rocket ship to carry me to and from work everyday, just something with a little fun factor. I'm about to take a look at a 94 318ic with 41K miles offered at $17K. Seems like a good price if really in the condition described to me.
: My question is, besides the engine, is there any significant difference between a 318 and 325? I don't care so much about interior stuff like leather, computer, etc.. More concerned with things like suspension, brakes, body construction, etc.?
: Also, can anything be done to make the 318 quicker off the line? Chip? Intake ala ECIS?
: One final question. When did the profile gasket problem in the 318 get resolved? Would a 94 suffer from this potential problem?
: Thankyou very much to all you gurus out there.

The engine is the only significant difference between the 325/328 and an 318. I beleive they use the same suspension/spring rates. Don't try to get 325/328 performace out of the 318-buy the 325/328. I have a 93 325is and love the turbine smooooth 6cyl-I use it as a daily driver and ave 27mpg combined! Go with the 6.

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