First, I know nothing about BMW's !! I have two trucks and my wife was tired of driving/parking either one . I got her a cherry '99 323is coupe at Christmas. I assume it is an E36 but nothing anywhere on vehicle/booklet tells me. I saw on a forum on this web-site a discussion on oil and can not relocate it. I did jot down some info and wish to confirm. I should use either of the following ratings : "ACEA" A3 or BMW LL-98 or LL-01 ..... Mobil 1 Syn 0w40 was highly recommended and is "A3" as well as the M Syn 15w50. The 0w40 is also BMW LL-01 approved. Also is the filter a paper fiber type? Is changing the oil any more difficult than a "normal" car/truck? I understand that the maintenance "counter" must be reset which I likely can't do but plan to change at 7500 mile intervals.......don't drive on dirt/gravel roads and all trips are sufficent to warm engine. Any help is appreciated..........

Yes, the car is an E36. The filter is paper, and it fits into a filter holder. Changing the oil is easy. You just need a 17mm socket for the drain plug and a 36mm socket for the oil filter housing.

Most people use Mobil 1 0W40 or Castrol 0W30 (aka German Castrol).