The 1998-2000 BMW 328i Sedan (E46) is a segment benchmark known for balancing performance and luxury. Enthusiasts and reviewers praise its communicative hydraulic steering and confident chassis control, often citing it as one of the best-driving 3 Series models. Famous for its timeless design and solid engineering, it remains a popular, affordable entry point for RWD sport sedan ownership. It is well suited as a reliable daily driver or a platform for tuning and track use for those who appreciate a pure, connected driving experience.
Annual maintenance for the 1998-2000 BMW 328i averages $773, but be ready for large repairs (~$1000). Common reliability concerns include oil leaks (valve cover/oil filter housing gaskets), cooling system failures (water pump, hoses, expansion tank), and VANOS issues.
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