Hello All, My name is Rob. My wife, Nataša, and I are new members, but long time BMW enthusiasts. When I had an opportunity to purchase a fairly clean, and very inexpensive E36 318is I couldn't say no. My wife agreed as long as I got rid of the old Grand Marquis to make room. So in 3 days the 176,000 mile Merc was out, and in it's place sat my new 183,000 mile toy. About a week later the AC compressor in Nataša's KIA gave up, and rather than spend $1600 on a used part, we decided to trade it while the low mile KIA still had value. She was finally able to get the car she really wanted; a MINI. We got a great deal on a certified pre-owned 2009 (R56) Cooper in Nightfire Red. It's an automatic, but man is it a blast to drive. So since we both now drive BMW products as our daily, we figured we should join the club to meet other enthusiasts locally, and around the world. We're always interested in local or relatively nearby events. As for my Schwarz II '94 M42 E36 318is 5 speed, it has some issues to sort out, but it runs and drives well, is easy to work on, and an honest joy to drive. We're glad to be part of the club! Rob Ruckus
Welcome to the club Rob! If you've joined recently, or even really recently, you may not yet have received a chapter newsletter, or Roundel - if so, you may want to be advised that the club's annual national event, O'Fest, is happening just down the road from ya'll, all next week in Columbus and at Mid-Ohio, and carrying on at Mid-Ohio thru the weekend. This event is unlikely to get this close to us again anytime soon, last time it was in Ohio was 1990, so if you all have an interest in coming down and hanging out with 750+ like-minded enthusiasts and fellow club members, check out the schedule and make a road trip! http://www.bmwccaofest.org/home.phtml
Thanks for the info! I am aware of O'Fest. Unfortunately we can't make it because of a prior engagement on Sunday, and I work on Saturdays. I've been a Mid-Ohio spectator since my childhood, and usually make it out to 2-3 race events a year, but I just can't take advantage of the opportunity. Hopefully next year.
Welcome to the asylum! I'm sorry I won't get a chance to meet you in Columbus, but there's always next year in California!