Other BMW 3-Series (1998 - 2006) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I don't have young children and don't take older people out very often.

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

    They like it too.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Actually, yes. I'd like to try a 330d though.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    I'd entertain a 3 series tourer if we did need more space.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchise

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £18,995

    When did you buy the car?

    February 2006

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Paid the market value.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    We needed something more suitable than my wifes Corsa for her 600 mile a week commute. We looked at a new Passat (too big) and an A3 Sportback (the spec was rubbish without heading down the options list). We ended up with this as it seemed unsensible (3 door coupe) yet fairly economical.

    What was the dealer like?

    Nice place, name chap. His dad's a surgeon. The sort of well brought up indiviual you don't mind giving lots of money to.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    The ride's not that good on 205/55R16 so I hate to think what the 18's on the M Sport must be like. It used to tramline like mad although tyres without big radial channels have helped that a bit. Despite these gripes, I do actually quite like it.

    What's it like to park?

    With the parking sensor, no problem.

  • Living with it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Silencer bracket broke and was replaced under warranty.

    What's most practical about your car?

    If you're nire to it, it'll do 60 mpg.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    A toss up between the cruise control and the parking sensor.