BMW 3-Series Compact (2001 - 2004) 316ti ES 3d (2004/54) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
You wanted a hatch but something more quality than the mainstream.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
They like it. Everyone thinks its a much more expensive car than it is.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Definitely, though a higher-specced one would be nice.
What are you likely to buy next?
Another BMW, but something better equipped and with more power, such as a 325 or 330.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£2,100
When did you buy the car?
September 2013
Did you get a good deal and why?
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
As a quality upgrade from my fiesta.
What was the dealer like?
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Ride is firm but comfortable and refined. Seating position is perfect and controls are all where you want them. Being only a 1.8 in quite a heavy car, performance is not the best. As with most rwd cars, it's not great in snow or ice.
What's it like to park?
Easy enough as it's a hatch. It is quite wide and chunky though.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
No problems whatsoever. Only had to replace the front wishbone bushes which is not uncommon on these but not expensive. Although it's approaching 100k miles, ride and condition would never suggest this.
What's most practical about your car?
The cost of buying and running costs are no different than those of an astra or focus etc. The 4 cyl isn't the most powerful or smoothest engine BMW made, but it's been reliable and never let me down.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Standard kit isn't great, although it has got aircon and elec mirrors etc, but this is nothing special on a modern car. Best aspect is the build quality.
