One of my friends had 1996 318is and it was a nice little car. I was surprised how peppy the engine was. I think it was faster than my 1995 525i. Still, I don’t think I could ever purchase 4-cyl car, especially with an automatic. I think you should look for 325 or 328; my friend who had the 318is regretted in getting the small engine after several months. And yes, “had”. He no longer has it anymore.