I want to do a bit of research on a 96 bimmer.....specifically a 318i convertible. What are some good sites/forums to read up on a bit? For instance, what is the engine like (good, bad, problematic – 1.9 liter 138 HP inline 4 ……….. I know, I know, it is kind of a dog, and weak compared to the 328i which has a 2.8L 190HP inline 6 – but that is not the issue here). What are some typical replacement issues? Any specific things to “watch” for? Basically, what is the good, bad, and ugly about them? It only has 34,000 miles on it (owned by an old fart who basically tooled around town in it as a “fun” car). I know that this is basically a good thing (not beat on, low mileage), but are there some drawbacks (old parts that haven’t really been used, things that need to be replaced anyways due to age, doesn’t appear to have been “let out to run”, etc.).

All I really know about them is that I heard that their electrical can be problematic at times and maintenance is expensive if not done by yourself.

If you can help me out great, otherwise if you can direct me to some good BMW forums, that would be great also.

Thanks