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The 1998 BMW 3 Series is a medium Car. When it was new, prices in New Zealand typically ranged from $44,000 for the 316i variant and topping out at $170,000 for the M3 variant.
There are 9 variants of the 3 Series available in New Zealand and this generation went on sale in mid-1994.
The 1998 3 Series was offered with a 3 year, unlimited km warranty.
Engine options for the BMW 3 Series include 1.6L in-line 4-cylinder (75kW/150Nm), 1.6L in-line 4-cylinder (75kW/150Nm), 1.8L in-line 4-cylinder (85kW/168Nm), 1.8L in-line 4-cylinder (85kW/168Nm), 1.9L in-line 4-cylinder (103kW/180Nm), 1.9L in-line 4-cylinder (87kW/180Nm), 1.9L in-line 4-cylinder (103kW/180Nm), 2.5L in-line 6-cylinder (125kW/245Nm), 2.5L in-line 6-cylinder (125kW/245Nm), 2.8L in-line 6-cylinder (142kW/280Nm), 2.8L in-line 6-cylinder (142kW/280Nm) and 3.2L in-line 6-cylinder (236kW/350Nm). Available with 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic, 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmissions. All variants feature rear-wheel drive.

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Engine specs, power, and efficiency
Drive Feel: Steering, Suspension, Ride Quality
Strength, stability, and off-road performance
Design, size, and presence on the road
Comfort, tech, and convenience inside
Infotainment, connectivity, and smart features
Protection, prevention, and alerts
Coverage, maintenance, and peace of mind
The BMW 3 Series comes in a variety of variants with the cheapest being 316i and the most expensive being M3.
Quickly see how the BMW 3 Series stacks up against its competition.
Select any benchmark to see more details.
2023
$89,900
2025
$139,400
2024
$193,200
2023
$268,900
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | 4,210 mm |
| Overall Width | 1,698 mm |
| Overall Height | 1,393 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,700 mm |
| Turning Circle | 10,400 mm |
| Load Capacity | 405 mm |
Dimensions in this table show the minimum and maximum values of all variants for this vehicle.
Our BMW 3 Series Exterior and Dimensions Page has every measurement you need to know exactly how this vehicle will fit your driving, garage, or work needs.
1998 BMW 3 Series
The cheapest BMW 3 Series is the 316i variant that starts from $44,000.
See all BMW 3 Series PricingThe most expensive BMW 3 Series is the M3 variant that starts from $170,000.
See all BMW 3 Series PricingThe best towing capacity of a BMW 3 Series is 1675 kg offered by the following variants: 328i and S3.
See all BMW 3 Series towing capacityThe largest BMW 3 Series is the base variant which measures 1739mm wide, 4471mm in length and sits 1415mm tall.
The most powerful BMW 3 Series is the M3 variant which has 236kW of power and 350nm of torque.
The BMW 3 Series is manufactured in different countries, depending on the variant, then shipped to New Zealand. The BMW 3 Series may be manufactured in Germany or South Africa.
The heaviest BMW 3 Series is the M3 variant which has a gross vehicle weight of 1980 kg.
The BMW 3 Series may use different fuel/energy types based on the variant which includes Premium Unleaded or Unleaded.
† Displayed prices exclude on-road costs such as delivery charges, registration fees, number plates, insurance and applicable road taxes. These prices are subject to change without notice and may not reflect current market pricing or dealer offers.