BMW 3-Series Compact (2001 - 2004) 325ti Sport 3d (02) (2002/02) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It is in the pale gold colour with the semi yellow leather (if you look at the Parkers review it is the interior shown) - and basically it is a bit "bling". I think it says "I want a race" to anyone in a 1 litre hatchback as several young lads have tried it on at the lights! (if that is you - I am not interested).

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They think I am an 18 year old boy racer trapped in a 31 year old woman's body - they have actually threatened to stage an intervention and get me help.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No - ride is too hard, engine is too revvy, clutch is too heavy and as my kids get older I may have to sell out and get something bigger and more boring.

What are you likely to buy next?

If I have to get something "practical" and admit that maybe I am now at a point in my life for a sensible car then the vehicle of choice is a Suburu Legacy 3.2 Estate. If I stick to a fierce little hatchback then maybe the Audi A3 3.2 Quattro (basically something with a big engine and 4 wheel drive).

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,995

When did you buy the car?

February 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

I wouldn't be so arrogant as to assume I got a "good deal". It cost about the same as all the others listed on Autotrader and Ebay (for spec and age etc) and they gave a fair part ex on my knackered old Astra - I would say it was a fair deal, but all dealers have to make a living.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

My old car was about to start costing a lot of money!

What was the dealer like?

Nothing special, but he was very good when the clutch started slipping on the way home! Changed it without a quibble and have had no problems since.

What's it like to drive?

Lovely to drive fast and begs to be thrashed around, but it is not a pleasent car to drive sedately as the ride is hard and the engine revs high even in fifth - that is my argument and I am sticking to it officer!

What's it like to park?

It is small and has parking sensors - even Stevie Wonder could do a decent job of parking it.

Have you had any problems with the car?

As mentioned already, the clutch started slipping after collection, but it was on approx 67K miles so not unexpected and the dealer changed it free of charge. Being a punchy rear wheel drive it can chomp through the back tyres, but this is to be expected. It has a few too many electrical gizmos which are prone to failure - rain sensor for wipers failed so no intermitent wipe, rear washer failed etc. The 6CD changer is in the boot so whenever you give the engine the beans and the car squats a CD or 2 jumps out of place and you have to pull over and go to the boot to replace them. A few other minor bits, but all expected with the age of the car.

What's most practical about your car?

The same as all other cars - it gets me where I want to go. It is big enough for 2 child seats, pushchairs and a weekly shop so it serves my purpose.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

They are all vulnerable to failure and electrical gremlins so not really keen on any of them as at any point one could cost me a chunk of hard earned dosh.