Much difference between BMW 318i and 320i?

Hi,

I have €15-17k and want to buy a BMW, either 318 or 320. Is there much of a difference between the two? Or has either had more problems? Hoping to get a 2009.

Vinnie Mc (Dublin)

Feb 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Vinnie,

If we’re talking about petrol 318i and 320i then there’s not an enormous difference — it’s the same 2.0-litre petrol engine, with either 130hp or 150hp on offer. Obviously the 320i’s a bit quicker, but not by all that much, and the 318i is economical if you drive it gently. Reliability is decent, and you don’t have to worry about he timing chain issues that afflicted diesel models, but at that age make absolutely sure that you’re buying a car with full service history. 

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Advisor
@neilmbriscoe