This 1998 BMW E36 328i Sport is Proof Older Beemers Were Just Better.

[@MrRoyck10]

This e36 is from the era when M meant motorsports, today BMW “M” sports means marketing. Nice review!

[@dagnut]

the e36 m3 was the heaviest of the range. There has only ever been one regular M car which was built with track work in mind. they have all been full of toys and relatively heavy. its a stupid romantic thrope which hold no water.

[@user-qq2mo1ek2r]

Couldn't agree more. The last several years have shown the marketing aspect is far more lucrative meaning the M badge exclusivity has been watered down so much that now it doesn't even mean you are getting a true sporting car. Most of the BMW range of cars can be spec'd to M spec meaning rock hard ride and that's about it. A true M car to me are the older versions.

[@dagnut]

@@user-qq2mo1ek2r how mamy m cars have you owned over the years? isn't it fairer to say that m cars have shifted due to the shift in the car industry as a whole? which m car was a true sporting car in your opinion?

[@user-qq2mo1ek2r]

@@dagnut 1, company car, never again. Also owned an M badged 5 series but not true M division car more a spec. Both harsh crash ride, M3 quick but the original and later models in updated form. Driven lots of them though over the years. Modern BMW are all marketing.... Yes quick... And...... Now yawn inducing driven by cap wearing yobs for the most part. Now drive a DB9 as a toy and a boring Japanese hybrid box that's cheap on company car tax

[@dagnut]

@@user-qq2mo1ek2r I just interested why you think old m cars where more focused?

[@allosaurusfragilis7782]

Another reminder that crazy power and top speed is just daft. Neat handling, a pleasant exhaust note and nice controls is so much more useful.

[@Christian---]

It's not that top speed is 'daft', it's just that our method of reaching it is BMWAMGKYS29363O74MSERIÉ 50000HP SUPRA-R HYPEBEAST AVENTADOR. People should watch Wangan Midnight, the show taught me the value of top speed where it is achieved by sleek aero, correctly delivered power and being humbled by the fact top speed could take you any moment on the road. And maybe by a spirit in a Z but that's entirely besides the point.

[@olik136]

I drive a VW bus from the 80s with 77 hp and the Cw factor of a family home... German traffic almost never lets you drive faster than I can manage with that (it will do slighly more than 120kmh) - the car I had before would do 225kmh- but my travel time was the same- well as long you don't drive at night on roads with no restrictions.

[@sparky4878]

John Mitchell with you there, especially sitting low. I must be strange but I feel safer the lower I am. Whenever I sit in an SUV I hate it, don’t feel safe high up. Yet that’s why people buy them. Oh forgot to add, maybe take away the power steering. I have a couple of cars without it and the feedback is brilliant. Only really need it for low speed manoeuvres.

[@ReplicantBattyman]

v true, but that isnt what the majority of beemer drivers want. they want ridiculous acceleration, loads of gadgets, and a insulated driving experience. i think as the performance car world is evolving us enthusiasts will have to start looking into the past for thrills and forget about the future.

[@seasidegalaxystreet]

Who needs super fast cars as you can’t drive at those speeds anyway. Acceleration is good and some degree of power but that’s about it. The rest we might as well forget.

[@larrychan3984]

I owned this 328 for 7 years at the early 2000's ... it was my 1st car , it taught me how to grip, drive efficiently, it taught me how to recover in rainy roads right after switching lanes to avoid accident... it taught me whether I should grip or lose grip ... It gave me a lot of lessons .... its more than 10 years away and I'm now on a subaru with everything assisted, I still missed that feeling of being a real driver... being able to communicate.. I really did thought it was a living thing. if not some stupid bastard rear ended me , I think I would be still living and enjoying every ride on my e36 unmodified, I had 200k miles on it....

[@gameboyterrorysta6307]

As much as I love old BMWs, (also we we used to have e30 coupe in family, so I had chance to fell in love with these machines), I also love older Subies. Now I drive '05 Impreza Wagon as a daily and I have to say that this car feels "analog" and just fun both on track and on gravel roads. But it's still car without TC, cameras, assists etc. Just ABS and AWD. And powersliding with full control over the car is remarkable experience.

[@dswizzle4838]

I think you can get a aftermarket ecu that takes off all the driving assist

[@larrychan3984]

@@dswizzle4838 however, those are illegal in my country......

[@dswizzle4838]

@@larrychan3984 damn that sucks bro

[@larrychan3984]

@@dswizzle4838 no worries , my next ride would have autopilot ... sigh.... golden days were gone

[@afiqfaisal8631]

Still running my 95' E36 328i sedan. Just clocked 500k+ KM on her and still running strong. She's a blast to drive 😍

[@Biosynchro]

500,000 kms! Hot diggity.

[@zaraak323i]

The same with my wife's 318i sedan, with over 545k km. I love her car so much I've bought an E36 coupe for myself.

[@matty6848]

Got to be honest Jay I much prefer when you review the more normal, adorable cars rather than these super cars that most people when never even drive, never mind own. Yes the old 328i were awesome cars!

[@narcleptik]

328i is definitely not adorable?

[@techyd8411]

Read the title and clicked like!! You’re 100% right, the 90s and early 2000’s was a pinnacle for BMW for them, and their current design trend is not great. Had a 320i 6 cylinder in white, it was great! It became a track car and is still going well !

[@jongalt6837]

Me too, 320i manual in white, not fast but a great car. Went to a 335xi which was great, sold it for a e36 M3, my favorite so far.

[@andrewstones2921]

Yes I had 3 of those 2 litre sixes and they are great engines, with maintenance they are very reliable also.

[@E36_keoo]

Hey there I run a e36 channel and would appreciate a your support for some bimmer goodness haha🤞🏽🖤

[@onkesigenu6243]

Such an emotional episode... this is why I love your content so much, you are always yourself and quite a genuine man

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thankyou Onke

[@jakep5451]

I feel like E36s are criminally underrated! When I say that my favorite 3 series chassis is the E36, people give me weird looks since I also have an E30 coupe and an E92. There's just something about it that feels so right.

[@person.X.]

Are they underrated? Back in the day they were very highly rated and regarded as fantastic drivers cars. A legend in their own lifetimes so to speak.

[@gui18bif]

I think its still highly rated and wanted

[@ybetz02]

In the car community it’s hugely underrated in my opinion, everybody love’s the E30 M3’s, E46..but E36 is under the radar but i can’t understant why because they are awesome machines.

[@Karl_Kampfwagen]

Best car ever made, no doubt... And I'll get in a drag race or fist fight to defend that.

[@joe718gt4]

I would choose this one over the others for that very reason, even with the neutered engine we got in the US

[@JANTHONYCHANNEL]

Thank you for speaking what has been in my mind for years, BMW has lost their way since the 90s. Owned an E36 for years and to this day it is the only car I regret selling and miss dearly. Old BMWs become a part of you.

[@tonymontana897]

I feel your pain mate. I once sold a motorcycle that I wished I hadn't. I didn't even need the money either. So lesson learned, I bought my E36 M3 in 2007 and still have it to this day. I don't think I could ever sell it. It's too good and I'll never find another one as good.

[@stu4181]

Loads of BMW fans feel this way, 6/8 cars i owned were bmws last one being a 2008 Z4, the modern ones have lost that connected feel that made even the boggo models feel special to drive. Always aspired to own an M3 got to the point I can, and ended up in A porsche Gayman, as thats the only car i could find with the feel `i was looking for....

[@hassankhan384]

That's the thing those 90s and old cars were things that you adored and you loved, and never wanted to give up, now days that craisma and that love thing is gone now days people hardly own a car more then 5 years some can't even own for 3 years back then people owned cars for more then 5 years easily some even owned for 15, 20 years and even after that many years people loved their cars they might didn't have all that crappy tech stuff as today cars have, maybe that's the reason cars tend to feel old quickly due to the entertainment suff that goes out of date just like your phones do withen 2 years its old, back then this want the case which is sad now days cars are just for show off and pop bangs, and cars are just throw away now days just like your phones quilty isn't there anymore nor the fun. Also desighns those designs never get old.

[@peterelmer9114]

I bought my 95 E36 328 7 years ago not really knowing much about them ; it just “grabbed” me when I saw it - it’s just passed another mot needing only an inner sill repair - not bad for 26 years old ! Why are E36’s so good ? just drive one and then you’ll know - definitely a classic from BMW.

[@hassankhan384]

@@peterelmer9114 they are lovely and desirable cars and still can look good in todays day for me the design will never get old.

[@McCarthyism_by_Youtube]

This was so pimp when it came out. Zee germans really knew how to make a frameless window feel solid when you slam the coupe door. I'm talking to you, buick T-type!

[@futurecat]

Thanks! I daily drove one of these, and it was the best car I ever had, overall.

[@bigalxyz]

I had one of these. Fairly basic spec but still the best driver’s car I’ve ever had. By a mile.

[@matty6848]

I had the 320i six cylinder and it was a great car. Fast, handled well and full spec. Shame BMW have lost their way now and just make boring looking cars.

[@bigalxyz]

Matt Y Also I can’t imagine buying a BMW that doesn’t have a straight 6 engine. It’s just not right!

[@X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X8X]

You make a great point on this being a special car, BMW and Mercedes are everyman's cars now that people don't have to save for them. Back then they were special.

[@johanburger4096]

Awesome car, the E36 328i. My first car was a red one and now, in my 40s and after many other very upmarket cars, my daily for the last 4 years has been a manual 328i again. I won't swop it for anything else. It's BMW doing what BMW does best. I cherish it immensely, since I don't think I'll ever be able to replace it...

[@kinada7372]

Couldn't agree more. I have driven MANY cars from steam powered, tiller guided examples to modern hybrid supercars and everything in between. But an essex/suffolk back road hoon on a summers eve in an E36 328is is most memorable indeed. Sublime, smooth, comfortable, well poised and such a rewarding drive. Great cars for sure and a good, honest review. SUBSCRIBED.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Welcome to the channel

[@OneMadBeanGaming]

i have one of these in avus blue, i absolutely love it

[@johnpearson492]

I have an e36 328is and an US spec M3. They are sublime cars. You control everything, it talks you, you talk to it. The NA 6 cylinder engine with a cable actuated throttle is a gem. The size of the car is perfect. I understand fully why people love them.

[@Biosynchro]

I agree with you about the 1990s. It's my favourite decade ever, for everything. I wish we could do it all over again.

[@DonBMW]

13 year owner of an E36 M3/4/5 (US Spec). 240 HP (230 ft lbs torque). Beautiful and amazingly reliable. Ultra comfortable and enough room for daily life. I love it so much I also bought a coupe. All around wonderful car.

[@themanipulator1]

Driven modern bmws, the m4 in particular. Yes they are fast, but my e46 clubsport was more fun in every way.

[@Ze-Germanzuk]

Same here, I test drove a 2008 and 2018 M3 and drove the M4 on track and all of them were so dull. I'll keep my E46 all day long :)

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I miss my Clubsport

[@themanipulator1]

@@JayEmmOnCars the dream would be to see my car on the channel one day. Going through some much needed tlc right now.

[@ApothecaryTerry]

This. They've given up on fun in favour of numbers which is a real shame. I used to be a BMW fan but from my 3rd car onwards I've looked at buying BMWs and turned them down every time. The only one I actually liked was the M135i, those are a lot of fun. Tried an M4 and M6 and pretty much forgot about them within 30 seconds of the test drive.

[@edtheduck6219]

The first BMW I ever drove was an E30 320i in the 80s. It was light, sharply styled and a little frisky around the rear end but that engine was a revelation compared to the Fords, Vauxhalls, Volvos, etc. I’d been in up to then. So smooth and revvy, with only nice noises: almost turbine-like. Everything about the car felt solidly engineered to last. It did show me what opposite lock was for after crossing a cattle grid with some power on...

[@MilkTea101]

This era of BMW was and still is amazing. I am loving my E39 daily driver

[@drumsmoker731]

The best cars for having fun, are the ones you can push to its limits the most. It doesn't matter how many HP you have or which make the best lap times, what matters is how much you can squeeze out every drop of the cars potential.

[@johntandy6830]

I have a 328i vert and love it so much fun to drive and 1 of best looking cars with its straight lines

[@Birmingham_racing]

Man that 6 cylinder still sounds soo good!

[@Lar308]

I dreamed of owning a BMW for years but obviously could not afford one. But in 1998 I splashed out a fortune - IR£27,000 (Irish pounds) on a brand new 318iS coupe m sport. I know this car was only a 4 cylinder 1.9 but that did not matter to me. It had that magical BMW black swartz metallic paint and those beautiful alloys / factory lowered suspension and those great fabric/ suede sports seats. That was really a dream come true car for me.

[@adamrimsky]

It is nice to have one of these in garage :)

[@TechTokOffical]

I'll second that. Mines also Boston Green but is a sedan #sedanstanceisbetter

[@idonjohnson6999]

E36 has stand the test of time so well.

[@MrTopgearnerd]

I wholeheartedly agree, the 90's is the high point in automobiles for enjoyment, fun and useful technology. Maby we could include the late 80's and early 00's too. 90% of my dream/want cars come from that time span.

[@Nero200]

The 90’s where definitely the best era for cars👍

[@ApothecaryTerry]

I can definitely name more cars from the 90s that I love than from any other era ☺ F1, Diablo and the great Peugeot 306 are all in my top 5 of all time as it stands.

[@mro9466]

M20s and M50s engine sounds ... just perfect

[@olik136]

for me it is the exact opposite... 60-80s car are most interesting to me... design in the 90s is the worst- obviously with some exceptions- stuff after that has the problem of being all very similar and uninspiring...

[@Rollin8.0]

@John Mitchell as opposed to McLaren F1 Ferrari F40 Ferrari 512TR Lamborghini Diablo VT Dodge Viper RT/10 and GTS Toyota Supra Nissan R32 GT-R S7 Mazda RX7 OG E36 M3 ... I reckon the 1990's have your 2000's list licked.

[@robinskeppstam]

This is one of my favourite episodes, I can sense the passion. "and then you realise that what you're doing... is driving" High light moment.

[@lihisluikku]

e46 and e39 were the last BMW cars with the BMW spirit intact. At least when it comes to the 3 and 5 series. They were the last BMW's that had aggressive visual styling, sporty suspension that doesn't make you feel like you're driving a cargo ship, steering that feels sharp and responsive. And there is just that BMW feel in those cars and the ones prior, everything is precise, defined, aggressive, almost violent, but still with elegance almost equal to old Mercedes. Everything feels satisfying. You feel connected as the driver, like the car is an instrument connecting you with the road.

[@umamidaddy7243]

Could agree more about the 1990s cars being the pinnacle and speed comments. You are the best automotive content since top gear in my opinion. You rock.

[@clayp.e30_v86]

Wedged a few of those m52b28 engines into a few e30s over the years. My last one was supercharged before I ripped it all out to wedge a v8 in 👀 Had many years of fun with my 328 swapped e30s though 😎

[@TheMadTatter]

My first RWD car was an E36 318i saloon, about the least desirable model with the 4 pot engine, but it was SO much fun. I ran it for about 2 or 3 years and, although it was not by any means a powerful car, the fun I had with it was immeasurable.

[@wetlettuce4768]

I had a E36 318i too I bought it for £350 in 2011 survived a year of abuse and a dodgey car dealer gave me £200 for it with no mot I checked on it and it passed its mot with no advisories...... And was scrapped a year later.

[@person.X.]

Agree. I had a 318i in the early 00s and it was a fantastic drivers car and not actually being very fast was no problem as you could drive it really hard without going insanely illegal.

[@DenfMotorsports]

Used to own a 328i Individual as daily. Had it for 10 years, and never let me down. Absolute brilliant car, wish they would still make cars like it (ok, maybe with xenon headlights instead of candles).

[@lbeckons304]

I'm shocked how that you don't get more views! Soothing reviews sometime I put them on at bedtime, not to say they are boring, just relaxing.

[@SimonConder]

Sir you are ABSOLUTELY bang on target with your comments about "new/modern BMW's" versus the E36 and E46 cars as well as later models. Thank you for voicing what many, many of us feel.

[@wightangel]

I totally agree with that comment you say at the beginning of the video about older BMW"s. This shape will always be synonymous with me for their place in Touring Cars. I still think the early 90's M5 will never be equalled for agressive looks.

[@edwardkarran4963]

I just had mine wrote off last week. This review was bitter sweet. I just collected my E38 and I hope it can give me the same feeling. Great review James.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Sorry to heard that Ed. Good luck with the 7!

[@edwardkarran4963]

@@JayEmmOnCars Thanks James appreciate that!

[@edwardkarran4963]

@RichJW I will do mate!!

[@AdamAus85]

I have an E39 and a E36. E38 has always been of interest to me, along with 7 series prior to it. I hope it goes well for you. Handsome tanks they are.

[@AdamAus85]

@RichJW thanks mate. I'm sure you do too.

[@danfisher1821]

I loved my E36 328i coupe sooooo much. It was absolutely heart breaking when I had to sell it.

[@lollypop9580]

Clio williams and e36 = dream garage back then in the 90's AND now. 👍

[@janstaes2172]

the most relaible cars where made in the 90's. still love the e 36, a classic e 21 alpina is till the dream for me

[@320iSTWEdition]

I've driven one for over 15 years...... these old ones are anything BUT reliable...... it's costly keeping them running, but when you do it's a lot of fun.

[@TVsez]

Back when a drug dealer could walk into a car garage with a holdall full of money and no questions asked....

[@matty6848]

RichJW they can now with that bloody covic😩

[@ThomasJones02]

They don’t like cash these days anyway as they can’t get their commission on the finance 🤣

[@rossvegas7]

@RichJW they wouldn't except £6.500 cash from us in hull mate

[@danjackson2014]

2500euro limit here where I live in Spain

[@E_tiBEAMERBOY]

RichJW lol they wanna make new world order wit this shit and have a single currency dunno when this will be over supposedly this will be the “age of pandemics”

[@smilepermile888]

I'm sure James would hate my Dad's runaround E36 though - M44 1.9 powered 318ti with M sport package, yup the 'rear-ended, ugly' E36 with 'primitive' rear suspension design that happens to not have the infamous straight 6, and has a different dashboard design (more like the Z3). But doesn't stop me from loving it as it has been serving the family since 1999, full of sentimental value!

[@steffenkawa8374]

It a fun little car and also useful. A friend of mine also has e36 compact m44 with H&r suspension. I myself drive an e36 318is, better suspension, brakes, full stainless exhaust + Semi slicks. I wanted to swap the engine for a M52b28. But I quite like the m44. Just keep it above 4500U and it will run.

[@smilepermile888]

@@steffenkawa8374 Nice one. Yes, your 318is shares the same M42/M44 engine as some of the E36 Compacts and Z3s. Compacts are practical as you say and they're pretty popular for drifting now because of how undesirably cheap they've become. Just have to be careful as they have snappy handling characteristics! Unlike the straight 6 engines, our 4 cylinders are lighter and mounted mostly behind the front axle, so the handling is pretty good. But I don't blame you if you end up swapping the engine for a M52B28 - you'll get more torque down low, smooth power delivery and a signature BMW sound!

[@steffenkawa8374]

@@smilepermile888 I can confirm the good handling.👍 I drive - 2 degree camber all around. The rear axle of the e36 compact doesn't feel as planted as my e36 coupe. But both are a good bang for the buck. I personally didn't like the looks of the compact, because of that I bought the coupe.

[@smilepermile888]

@@steffenkawa8374 I agree with you, thats the disadvantage of the semi-trailing arm design that the Compacts, Z3s and E30s used. I respect your opinion on the marmite looks of the E36 compact - in some ways, i'm glad that BMW now makes FWD 1 series, X2 and M235i GranCoupe xdrive, so that the E36 Compact is no longer the car that people refer to as the 'ugliest BMW ever made' hahaha

[@steffenkawa8374]

@@smilepermile888but the semi trailing design also has an advantage it's more fun😁. My coupe is easier to drive and the rear almost never breaks out with semi slicks. I also have an e30 and it is definitely harder to drive it fast, but also more rewarding. And at the end of day a BMW should be fun to drive. And both my e36 and e30 achieve that, but in a different way.

[@antiochiaadtaurum3786]

Call it a cigarette lighter - Price: £x Rename it a cigar lighter - Price: £3x

[@cornishrider]

What a lovely spec, video is beautifully filmed the scenery and sunlight is fantastic worth watching again in mid winter as a reminder of summer!

[@FlyasaDiamond]

I went from a 440i to an M2 competition, and I have to say they both drive really nicely, but the M2c is a riot. Lovely to drive and I love smaller cars

[@550LMS]

Love this era of BMW. My old E34 (1995 so one of the last) was great...never should've got rid of it. 200K miles on the clock and was still going strong. Same gearbox as this one, 4th to 5th was nasty, my only complaint! Mine was standard except for the exhaust manifold was from E36 M3 (rest exhaust completely stock), made a fantastic noise!

[@E36_keoo]

Hey there I run a e36 channel and would appreciate a your support for some bimmer goodness haha🤞🏽🖤

[@e36328isport]

Loved my old Boston 328sport. 10 year owned. This has just brought it all back 👍

[@liberalniautokrata7697]

You've absolutely deserved my subscription for love of these old iconic BMWs!

[@veefource]

Great review Jay! I had a '98 silver 328is with the Avus pack just like this car. Absolutely loved it and kept it for 7 years whereas I'm usually bored by 2-3 and only reluctantly sold it due to having to have a work vehicle. They're actually a lot quicker than you'd believe. It pulled a few car lengths against a 210bhp Mini Cooper Works from a 20mph start. I think the long gearing disguises this a lot when driving it. I'd be tempted by an M235i as a successor but don't think I could live with the numb steering and fake engine sounds. Such a shame BMW sold out on their heritage & core values. Nothing from their range has interested me since the hydraulic steering version of the 130i :(

[@E36_keoo]

Hey there I run a e36 channel and would appreciate a your support for some bimmer goodness haha🤞🏽🖤

[@bradleymcgifford8024]

Love how your so humble stay real

[@gosportjamie]

I used to love the instantaneous fuel economy readout on my old, ex-police E28 528i that wasn't. When you were really having fun on the twisty roads it was very easy to get that down into single figures. The person I bought it from said it was perfectly possible to get it down to 0 mpg, though I never actually managed that. I did get it down to 1.2 mpg once. It's nut hard to see why they were usually switched off or left in a standard readout mode when the police had them...

[@tomfinney4783]

Had an E30 pre-facelift chromie 325i for 26 years & loved it. great car to work on and fast too :-)

[@MrFlyingguy]

brilliant review - at 19, i managed to persuade my boss to lease me a 318is in 98, i lost the back end twice each time costing about 3k in rear end work.. loved that car

[@stevejessop6828]

Such a great car.ive been the proud owner of a 1996 318is coupe for the past seventeen years.a joy to drive and could never part with it,the build quality is as good as it gets.

[@franciscocabrerabrito5945]

Happy owner of a 328i e36 bone stock. Thanks for making me keep my car a few more years

[@thereallotharmatthae]

Why just a few more years? It’s becoming a classic

[@franciscocabrerabrito5945]

@@thereallotharmatthae sure it is. But it's been a decade with me and I don't use it as often as I should. I don't want a bunch of cars I don't use. They need to be kept on the road by people that give them love.

[@thereallotharmatthae]

@@franciscocabrerabrito5945 I see. Tough choices need to be made.

[@staggtastic9951]

Nice to find a ‘down to earth’ car review guy at last who isn’t jumped up like that Shmee150 kid!!! Cheers JayEmm.

[@4RingsRetro]

I always admire who speak clearly without fluff, and you sir, are an expert communicator. This is easily Top Gear quality presenting. Recent new subscriber and I look forward to many more videos. Thanks mate!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Richard, lots more for you to watch!

[@4RingsRetro]

@@JayEmmOnCars No worries! If you're ever looking to drive an 80's VW camper, let me know! 😂

[@Andrew4181975]

The size of the E36 was just so perfect for me. Now cars are so obnoxiously Huge and Heavy!

[@Uk45local]

I owned an e36 325i coupe for 8yrs for a reason, loved driving it. I then got an e46 330ci sport 9yrs ago - and still own it to this day - it doesn’t do many miles these days, but don’t want to ever get rid of it - as I love driving it..

[@finnmarsh396]

I've kept coming back to this video over the months since you've uploaded it. I'm finally going to take the plunge on an e36

[@kanalnamn]

Just do it. I have two. One for the summers and one for the weekends.

[@musmodtos]

I had one of these, otherwise identical except dark leather and silver paint. I purchased it about eight years ago when they were bottom money bangers for £800 out the back of a BMW franchise 'on the quiet' away from the sales manager rather than it being scrapped or sent to auction. I howl with delight whenever I see an E36 coupe and I've owned a varied selection of cars but that was by far the best day-to-day neo-classic I ever owned. I would have another in a heartbeat.

[@neilrafferty2097]

Funnily enough I saw one yesterday and thought what a nice compact machine .

[@Wallygjs]

I hope the powers that be at BMW are listening as I think this modern obsession with more and more power and stiffer handling and cars that are so large you are scared to use them on the UK B roads needs to stop and we need to get back to something like this car, just with all the modern improvements that don't interfere with what was great about this era of car. Thanks for reviewing these less famous cars, I prefer these reviews to the totally unobtainable cars that most You Tubers follow.

[@Fatboy4pie]

I completely agree. 👍

[@Christian---]

Dacia proves the concept of a 90s car built with modern standards right, all they need is to cut the tail of the Logan into a sedan and borrow the 86s technical stuff and you basically have a 320. Okay a fancier suspension would be nice but not necessary I'd wager.

[@wetlettuce4768]

Meanwhile at BMW "make the grills even bigger!"

[@Wallygjs]

@John Mitchell I don't get why they need to be bigger, I do wonder if that's just a response to us all becoming obese in the UK so that we fit in them better? I can understand the A B and C pillars need to be wider to accommodate stronger roll cages but I can't see size is as a result of safety standards.

[@johnbradshaw5900]

Add lightness, a light, sweet handling car doesn't need a lot of power to be great fun. It's something Mazda have stayed true to with the MX5, they've studiously avoided chasing power and bragging rights and kept to the formula of lightness, good handling and fun and the car is all the better for it.

[@Dutchy695]

Just bought 1995 e36 four door one owner 180000klm in New Zealand. Totally hooked with the chassis and feeling on the road. Superb!

[@Glee73]

i've owned my E36 328i now for nearly 15 years.. still loving it and driving it.

[@Bugumir]

Now here's a car I would own. And the review helps encourage that desire. Great job.

[@MF-jp5vp]

Superb review, and very valid points to anyone yet to drive this type of 3 series. Had a 318is from new in 1996 and yes the back end would 'significantly' break away from you, so.....always wear a seat belt...luckily I was!!!

[@soundseeker63]

He touches on a deeper truth here that applies to all cars, not just BMWs. That is: It's more fun to have 200hp that you can USE ALL OF (and a chassis that interacts with you) than 600hp you are constantly having to peg back and a buch of computers deciding everything for you. THAT is where these 90's cars hit the sweet spot - They had ENOUGH of everything (so you could actually use and enjoy everything) but not too much. In modern cars you have more power than you can really use and so much tech it renders the driver's skill and technique largely obsolete. More is not always better. Sometimes less is more.

[@tcaudiobooks737]

There's a reason motoring journalists only do drag races nowadays, instead of real races around a proper track.

[@ca9968]

I had an 1995 E36 325i back in the day in Johannesburg, that car was the complete package, many nights when I couldn`t sleep I would get in her and do a loop of the highway system that forms roughly a 120km loop around the city...that engine responsiveness and sound with the sunroof open was simply Sheer Driving Pleasure!

[@LMCWUE]

thanks for making this review.I love my e36 328i.I am on my second one .My first one was an auto gearbox.I now have a manual an immaculate example with under 100k km's on it

[@maxfrederick7703]

Unleashed on cars.... I loved that VHS from the tank and the YUGO to the race where the (lets say standard) Cerbera destroyed the competition..... It really was a part of my childhood. What a video.

[@Mouse2113]

Also the Nissan Drizzle with the catapult 😂

[@maxfrederick7703]

Steven Cross Medival Trebuchet! 😂

[@Mouse2113]

@@maxfrederick7703 goodbye sunny man! 😂😂😂

[@benbuchanan672]

Agreed the 90s were the peak. The perfect balance of sophistication and simplicity. My 96 328i Coupe was the best, cheapest track day car (and daily) I had. 👍🏻

[@juhl-racing1466]

I recently bought a 1998 Bostongrün E36 Compact after having owned a 1995 Compact 6-7 years ago. I remembered it having nice driver space and being really tail happy! When bringing the new car home i babyed it home about 160km(old tires, worn brakes and ruff idle), but the last 20 km's i kicked the throttle more and really remembered why i had missed my old Compact!

[@essexboydave]

Totally agree The 90s was the best era for cars All the best cars I've owned are from that time and the e36 is definitely one of my favourites I've had them all and still own two tourings (including the one you drove)

[@Garage12]

Had a 5 door one in hellrot red, never driven an older car that felt so well built and stable compared with other cars of that time, really do regret selling it.

[@dannyconway2612]

Another great video, your right about the 90's Vauxhall Cavalier Turbo, Calibra Turbo, great cars great time for cars.

[@chrisblay]

I had an E36 328i Coupe back around 2001 and it was great fun to drive. Had to get rid of it eventually, as the Mrs refused to travel in it following a spin on some oil. Probably should have kept it.😫

[@grahamnutt8958]

Thanks for bringing back some fond memories. Although I never owned a 3 series (used to have a 1991 H reg 520i SE 24 valve), those were back when BMW had great reliability plus a decent build quality. Having worked for a dealership that specialised in used German cars, it was generally accepted that the E36 was for the more exuberant whereas a 5 series (E39?) was for a slightly more affluent class of hooligan 😆. The 2.0 litre straight 6 was regarded as being the smoothest, the 2.8 litre was the most durable. Great cars and fun to drive 👍

[@E36_keoo]

Hey there I run a e36 channel and would appreciate a your support for some bimmer goodness haha🤞🏽🖤

[@davebarron5939]

Very enjoyable video, I understand your observations of the "pillars". I drive 320 to 400 miles a day doing E Commerce deliveries. I have had full size (American) pick ups disappear behind my A pillars, pulling out or making turns at corners. Gotta love "fool" government engineered vehicles.

[@Silverback1969MoonLandingLies]

Best review you have done, I'm loving your work!

[@d4vef81]

Had 3 of these all faultless. I once drove from Southampton to Rotherham (200miles ish) on Christmas Eve in 2 hours 15 mins. Very naughty but empty roads and the car handled it impeccably

[@saxongroove5898]

My old 328i in Boston Green had 141,000 miles on it when I sold it. One of the best cars I've ever owned, and it taught me how to drive RWD

[@Fatboy4pie]

I have an E36 convertible, it's a late 325i and is very well spect up, I absolutely love it, mine is pretty much factory apart from the tame stainless exhaust and poly bushing, have to admit the duel climate on mine works brilliantly, I also have a full tool kit and the original torch that came with it. 👍

[@brianiswrong]

Never owned or driven a BMW,but any BMW in Boston green gets my full attention while iam at work driving.

[@kebabtank]

I had a '98 plate BMW E39 528i a few years ago and the engine was just glorious. These cars will be worth their weight in gold in another twenty years or so, as 6 cylinder engines will be a thing of the past.

[@lukewaite1438]

This was the review that got me into your channel, absolutely spot on in every way.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Glad you liked it!

[@ivorproblem1332]

Fitting the 325i throttle body, inlet manifold swap and map lifts the engine up to around 220 - 230hp. The engine as standard was restricted and once the upgrade is done it revs freely like the 325 did.

[@StelioKontos-wk9km]

It was actually the 525 exhaust and inlet manifolds for the swap. 3.0 m3 cams

[@techbark2307]

I had a 328is coupe 1999 in avus blue with the bbs splits and lotus nappa leather, was an auto , superb car.

[@drews80sgarage34]

I’m kind of a late adaptor, but you have become one of my favorite You Tubers. Great video here, and I agree 100% with your thoughts on BMW. (I’ve yet to see anyone that enjoys cars to any degree admit to liking the way the new BMW’s drive.). They’ll have to pry my cold dead hands from the wheel of my E46 M3. Great job - keep up the great content!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Drew

[@GetUpFalcon]

And you realise what you're doing is, driving - so well said.

[@jonwilko6305]

I own 2 E36 convertibles a pre face lift 1995 320i and a 1999 M3 evo had them both since new both built on the individual programme they are great cars they have always been underrated but it’s fast becoming apparent what a great car they actually are great review mate thanks 👍

[@michaeldaly9473]

Awesome tape, still think of the triumphant music for each car before the drag race to this day!!

[@Anthraxegott]

That judder in the clutch is most probably the clutch release bearing. Might as well change the clutch depending on how worn it is, while taking it apart.

[@lovemussb1940]

They were just lovely cars to be in and drive. I miss my old e36 and golf gti mk2 the most out of the cars over the years

[@georgeachillea5946]

Hi Jay, I had one of these back in 1998 in Boston Green fantastic colour with all the options you mentioned in the review, loved this car but it did need a little more power but handled well and always put a big smile on my face, it looked like am M3 but much cheaper to run and maintain. Wish I still had it.

[@TheCounty90]

I had a pristine 323i M Sport in Boston Green back in 2002 and yes I watched Unleashed on cars over and over as a kid. I miss the car almost as much as I miss the VHS!

[@bigal3055]

Not much of a Beemer fan these days, but that car, in that colour and with that engine? Yes please!

[@Bilal_El-Hassan]

thank you for taking me back. great video.