BMW 318i

The 1987 BMW 318i. You see, there are cars, and then there are BMWs. And this one, the 318i, is the sort of car that makes you realize why people still put up with the autobahns of yore, the strudel, and the occasional bout of lederhosen. It’s a quintessentially 80s machine, dripping in that distinct German engineering ethos of the time.

First, let’s talk about the engine. Under the bonnet, you get a 1.8-liter four-cylinder petrol engine. Now, 103 horsepower might not sound like much. In fact, it sounds like something you’d expect from a hairdryer. But, let’s be fair. This was 1987, and back then, 103 horses galloping together was enough to cause a stir, especially when paired with BMW’s masterful engineering.

The power is sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox. This is the classic BMW setup: rear-wheel drive, manual transmission. It’s what purists dream of. And it’s all beautifully balanced, giving you the kind of drive that makes you think, “Yes, this is what life is all about.” It’s the kind of car that whispers sweet nothings to your inner petrolhead as you navigate twisty roads.

Performance? Well, let’s manage our expectations here. The 0-60 mph time is 10.6 seconds. That’s not exactly blistering. A modern diesel hatchback would leave it for dead at the lights. But speed isn’t everything. Top speed is 116 mph, which in those days, was enough to make you feel like Michael Schumacher, especially on an unrestricted autobahn.

Handling is where the 318i shines. The steering is precise, and there’s an agility to its movements that makes you forget about the lack of brute force. It’s a car that communicates with you, giving you feedback through the seat of your pants and the tips of your fingers. It’s pure driving pleasure, and that’s the real charm of this Bimmer.

Dimensions-wise, it’s compact by today’s standards: 4325 mm in length and 1645 mm

in width. But this just means it’s perfect for those tight European streets. It weighs in at a svelte 1010 kg, which is lighter than most modern compacts. This lack of weight contributes to its nimbleness and surprisingly good fuel economy – 7.8 liters per 100 km. That’s about 30 mpg in US terms, which is commendable for a car of its age.

Inside, the cabin is a lesson in German functionalism. It’s not luxurious by any means, but everything is where it should be, and it all works with a satisfying click. There’s a spartan charm to it, a reminder of a time when cars were about driving rather than being rolling tech gadgets.

In conclusion, the 1987 BMW 318i is a car that embodies what made BMW the ultimate driving machine. It’s not about raw power or outright speed. It’s about balance, precision, and the joy of driving. It’s a car for those who appreciate the journey as much as the destination. So, if you ever find one, cherish it. Because they don’t make them like this anymore.