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BMW 325 TDS (1997-04)

Production Total: The total production of the BMW 325 TDS (1997-2004) is not readily available. However, it is known that the BMW 325 TDS was part of the E46 series and was produced during that period.
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Price New: In 1997, the new price of a BMW 325 TDS in the UK was approximately £25,000.
The new price of a BMW 325 TDS in 1997 was approximately **£25,000**. Adjusted for inflation to 2025, this would roughly equate to **£48,385**.
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Rivals: In 1997, the new prices of some of the main rivals of the BMW 325 TDS in the UK were approximately:

1. **Mercedes-Benz C250 Turbodiesel**: £27,000
2. **Audi A4 2.5 TDI**: £26,000
3. **Volkswagen Passat 2.5 TDI**: £24,000
4. **Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi**: £20,000

These prices reflect the competitive landscape of the diesel car market during that era.
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of the latest data, there is currently **1 BMW 325 TDS** from the 1997-2004 production period still on the road in the UK.
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PLEASE NOTE: The information provided below is given in averages across Northern Ireland at the date specified. Petrol reflect average prices for four star fuel in litres.

Road Tax: In 1997, the cost of road tax for a BMW 325 TDS in the UK was approximately **£345 per year** road tax - Parkers](https://www.parkers.co.uk/bmw/3-series/saloon-1991/car-tax/).
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Petrol: In 1997, the price of four-star petrol in the UK was approximately **77.14 pence per litre**.
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BMW 325 TDS (1997-04)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

1. **Fuel Leaks and Starting Woes**:
- **Symptoms**: If your car is hard to start when cold and smells of fuel, you might be dealing with a fuel leak or poor starting.
- **Possible Culprits**: One common culprit is a little white plastic grommet-like thing (technical term, I promise!) in the fuel pipe. This grommet should allow fuel through but not back. If it's faulty, it can cause starting problems and fuel leakage.
- **Fix**: Replacing this grommet usually does the trick. However, if you're experiencing the issue again, it's essential to check for leaks around the back of the engine, especially near the fuel rail. Leaking injectors, fuel rails, or fuel pipes could also be at play¹.

2. **Hot Start Problems**:
- **Symptoms**: Your **325tds** might start fine when warm but give you grief when cold.
- **Possible Cause**: The mechanical fuel pump's fuel cut-off pin can misbehave. It's supposed to pull out when you start the car, but sometimes it decides to play hide-and-seek.
- **Quick Fix**: Some folks have had success using a little squirt of easy-start (carefully!) into the airbox during cranking. Just a second burst at a time, though—don't go overboard! And remember, easy-start isn't a daily breakfast for your engine; use it sparingly.
- **Fun Fact**: This "hot start" issue isn't unique to BMW; even Land Rovers have been known to grumble about it¹.

3. **Glow Plug Upgrade**:
- **Symptoms**: If your **325tds** feels sluggish during cold starts, consider upgrading the glow plugs.
- **Fix**: Changing the glow plugs can make a world of difference. They're like little heaters that help your diesel engine wake up on frosty mornings. You can find suitable replacements at auto parts stores.

4. **Cooling System Concerns**:
- **Symptoms**: Keep an eye on your water pump, radiator, and thermostat. Overheating can be a headache.
- **Fix**: Regular maintenance and timely replacements are key. A well-behaved cooling system keeps your engine happy.

5. **Electrical Gremlins**:
- **Symptoms**: Electrical issues can crop up—faulty sensors, wonky wiring, or temperamental modules.
- **Fix**: Diagnosing electrical problems can be like solving a puzzle. If you're not a wiring wizard, a good auto electrician can save the day.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.

The BMW 325 TDS was part of the **E36 generation** of the BMW 3 Series, which was produced from 1990 to 2000. Here are the trim levels available for the E36 3 Series:

1. **SE**: The standard trim level with essential features.
2. **Sport**: Added sportier features and enhancements.
3. **M Sport**: The top trim level with performance-oriented features and styling.

These trim levels offered a range of options and features to suit different preferences and needs.
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Engine
The BMW 325 TDS (1997-2004) was equipped with a **2.5L inline-6 turbocharged diesel engine**. This engine, known as the **M51D25**, produced **141 hp (143 PS)** and **191 lb-ft (260 Nm)** of torque specs: speed, power ...](https://bmwguide.net/bmw-3-series-e36-325tds-kat-exclusiv-edition-1997-1998-specs/).
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Performance
The BMW 325 TDS (1997-2004) offered solid performance for a diesel car of its time. Here are the key performance figures:

- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 12.0 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 123 mph (198 km/h)
- **Power Output**: 141 hp (143 PS) from its 2.5L inline-6 turbocharged diesel engine.

These figures made the 325 TDS a respectable performer in the diesel car market of the late 1990s and early 2000s.
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Rivals
Here are the performance figures for some of the main rivals of the BMW 325 TDS in 1997:

1. **Mercedes-Benz C250 Turbodiesel**:
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 11.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 118 mph (190 km/h)
- **Power Output**: 150 hp

2. **Audi A4 2.5 TDI**:
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 9.9 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 130 mph (209 km/h)
- **Power Output**: 150 hp

3. **Volkswagen Passat 2.5 TDI**:
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 10.0 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 125 mph (201 km/h)
- **Power Output**: 150 hp

4. **Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi**:
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 10.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: Around 120 mph (193 km/h)
- **Power Output**: 115 hp

These performance figures highlight the competitive nature of the diesel car market during that era, with each model offering a unique blend of power and efficiency.
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Designer/Dimensions
The BMW 325 TDS was part of the E36 generation, which was designed by **Claus Luthe**.

Here are the dimensions of the BMW 325 TDS:
- **Length**: 4,433 mm (174.5 inches)
- **Width**: 1,698 mm (66.9 inches)
- **Height**: 1,393 mm (54.8 inches)
- **Wheelbase**: 2,700 mm (106.3 inches)
- **Curb Weight**: 1,440 kg (3,175 lbs)
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Spares/Specialists NI
Here are some options for locating spares for your BMW 325 TDS in the UK and Ireland:

1. **[eBay](https://www.ebay.ie/sch/i.html?_nkw=bmw+325tds)**: A wide range of new and used parts for the BMW 325 TDS.
2. **[Autodoc](https://www.autodoc.co.uk/spares/bmw/3er-reihe/3-e36/63-325-tds)**: Offers a comprehensive parts catalogue for the BMW 325 TDS.
3. **[EU-Spares](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/bmw/3er-reihe/3-e36)**: Another option for finding original parts for your BMW 325 TDS.

These sources should help you find the spares you need to keep your BMW 325 TDS in top condition. If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask!
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Specialists NI
There are several specialist garages in Northern Ireland that can service and repair your BMW 325 TDS. Here are a few options:

1. **[PJS Auto Engineering](http://www.pjsautoengineering.co.uk/bmw-specialist-northern-ireland.html)**: Located in Bellaghy, they offer a wide range of services for BMWs, including diagnostics, servicing, and repairs.
2. **[McEvoy Motors](https://www.mcevoymotors.com/index.php/31/)**: Based in Carryduff, near Belfast, they are a German car specialist equipped to work on all types of BMWs, including the 325 TDS.
3. **[The BMW Specialist Register](https://the-bmw-specialist-register.com/independent-bmw-specialists/)**: This website allows you to search for independent BMW specialists in your area, including Northern Ireland.

These garages should be able to provide the specialist services you need for your BMW 325 TDS. If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask!
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Racing
The BMW 325 TDS did not have a significant presence in racing. However, its petrol counterpart, the BMW 325i, was more actively involved in motorsport. The 325i competed in various racing series, including the **European Touring Car Championship (ETCC)** and the **Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM)**.
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Valuation
The value of a BMW 325 TDS (1997-2004) in the UK today can vary based on its condition, mileage, and originality. On average, you can expect to pay between **£6,000 and £10,000** for a well-maintained example.
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Clubs
BMW owners in Northern Ireland can find clubs to join and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Here are a couple of options:

1. **BMW Club Ulster Section**: This club is part of the official BMW Club, which encompasses the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. They organize a variety of events throughout the year, including meet-ups, ride-outs, and tours. You can find more information on their [website](https://www.bmwclubulstersection.com/).

2. **BMW Car Club GB - Irish Region**: This club covers both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. They host fun drives, local meetings, shows, and exhibitions. More details can be found on their [website](https://bmwcarclubgb.uk/regions/ireland/).

These clubs offer great opportunities to meet other BMW enthusiasts, participate in events, and share your passion for BMWs.
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