BMW 3-Series Coupe (1992 - 1999) 318i s 2d (1996/N) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

This car says the driver values reliability and practicality whilst still enjoying the benefits of performance and style.

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

My family have occasionally borrowed the car and love how it drives.

Would you buy this car again and why?

At 108k miles and still going strong, I would buy this car again in a heartbeat.

What are you likely to buy next?

Hopefully, I've got a few years left in this car yet.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£0

When did you buy the car?

January 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

We bought the car privately. The car was low mileage and previous owner had obviously taken good care of her. We used the prices we had found in Parkers Guide to bring the price down by £300 from the asking price, so we think we got a great deal.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

We bought this car as my husband likes BMWs. He had been driving a 535i, but, as petrol prices rose it was extortionate to run, so, rather than take out a second mortgage to fill the car, we decided to buy another BMW but with a smaller engine.

What was the dealer like?

Friendly.

What's it like to drive?

The car drives like a dream and sticks to the road in the worst of weather. We live at sea level then drive over a mountain road to get to work. Despite the age of the car, it tackles the climb with ease. Even in the heavy snow we had this year the car started every time.

What's it like to park?

The car has power steering and good visibility, so it is easy to park.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The car, nicknamed BeRyL (Big Red Lipstick), has been really reliable and other than the usual minor complaints during servicing she has not given us any problems.

What's most practical about your car?

The boot and the fold down seats in this car are fabulous. It converts quickly from a comfortable 5 seater with plenty of space for shopping to a van with enough space to fit a myriad of 'treasures'. During the time we have owned Beryl, we have dragged back many, many things, including: wooden pallets (for fire wood), my daughter's bicycle, six dining room chairs, a dining table and even a treadmill.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

This car really isn't about gadgets. It is simply a good little run around. The only real optional extra is the sunroof, but, with the good British weather we have been experiencing over the last few years, we don't really get to use it very often.