how much is too much?

[Christ]

I'm new to the BMW thing... so I'm looking for either a 318 or 325... 5 speed, preferably 4dr... I was just wondering what I should be looking for as far as condition, etc., and how much exactly is too much to pay for a 92-98 3 series? I plan on slight modifications, like M3 parts, etc... turbocharging for engine, some other slight mods, nothing serious tho.

I guess maybe the 92-98 is the 2nd or 3rd gen 3 series? I'm not sure, like I said I'm new... lol

Anyway, any help would be appreciated, as well as any resources you could share to get aftermarket or OE market parts, preferably from the country of origin (Germany?)

Thanks in advance for your help. -=X=-

[Gearhead202]

I am more of an E30 guy that is 87-91 you are looking at the E36 chassis so i do not rly know how much

but for parts
Bavauto.com is fantastic

[Christ]

umm... thanks for the .. uhhh.. help?

ok, well, the site is useful at least.. thanks for that. I thought it was e36 I was lookin at, wasn't sure.

[DinanM3_S2]

Pricing depends alot on the year, whether it is a 318i/235i/328i, condition, etc. but I would say that the most you should feasably be spending on a mint condition low milage E36 328i would be about $16,000 or so (a little more for a convertable, even more for an M3) but most should be around $10,000-$12,000. www.kbb.com (Kelly Blue Book) is a great resource for pricing a car you might be interested in.

Regarding mods, here is a few links to the major aftermarket part makers that specialize in BMWs in America-

http://activeautowerke.com/
http://www.dinancars.com/
http://www.turnermotorsport.com/html/index.asp

In my experience Dinan is a bit more trustworthy and reliable, but their products are expensive and might not get the power gains you are looking for. Active Autowerke (AA) is less expensive, but you tend to get what you pay for in terms of quality.