1996 BMW 318 Review (continued)
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Summary

Although the BMW 328 line has some worthy competitors--the new Audi A4 comes to mind--it's still the standard by which other cars in this class will be judged.

Its styling is compelling, its quality almost flawless, its list of standard features generous and its handling exceptional, particularly with the sport suspension.

The new engine puts extra power right where it's most likely to provide the most benefit--in the low and middle part of the engine speed range--and the well-appointed interior strikes a near-perfect balance between sport and luxury.

The price of entry isn't cheap. But the rewards that go with ownership of this car make it well worth the money.

(Source: New Cars Test Drive)

Model Line Overview

Model Lineup:
Engines:	2.8-liter dohc 16v inline 6-cyl.
Transmissions:	5-speed manual
Saftey Equipment (standard):	ABS, dual airbags
Saftey Equipment (optional):
Basic Warranty:	4 years/50,000 miles
Assembled In:	Germany

Specifications As Tested

Model Tested (MSRP):	328i sedan
Standard Equipment:	Automatic climate control, power sunroof, AM/FM/cassette sound system, power windows, power mirrors, 8-way power seats, power locks, cruise control, tilt steering
Options As Tested (MSRP):	Leather seating, sport suspension, 16-in. alloy wheels, trip computer, sport seats, P225/50ZR-16 performance tires
Destination Charge:
Gas Guzzler Tax:
Price As Tested (MSRP):	35525
Layout:
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):	190 @ 5300
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):	207 @ 3950
Transmission:	5-speed manual
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:	20/29
Wheelbase:	106.3
Length/width/height:	174.5/66.9/54.6
Track, f/r:	55.4/55.9
Turning circle:	34.1
Seating capacity:	5
Head/hip/leg room, f:	37.1/NA/41.4
Head/hip/leg room, m:
Head/hip/leg room, r:	36.7/NA/34.0
Cargo volume:	10.3
Payload:
Towing capacity:
Suspension, f:	Independent
Suspension, r:	Independent
Ground clearance:
Curb weight:	3120
Tires:	P205/60R-15
Brakes, f/r:	disc/disc
Fuel capacity:	16.4