BMW 3-Series M3 Convertible (2001-2006) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 2.5 out of 52.5

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 20 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

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Residuals are strong, but the running costs in terms of fuel, insurance, tyres and servicing are very high but then this is supercar performance – it doesn’t come cheap.

3-Series’ 3.2-litre petrol unit returns just 20mpg, so it’s no surprise that it gets a terrible eco score. It emits 328 g/km CO2 which is high compared to an average family car, but fairly standard compared to similar medium-sized convertibles. Thankfully, these sorts of cars tend to be less prevalent on the roads than greener, average family cars.

M3 is a car people take for granted as being able to take a thrashing without any special treatment. Fortunately it can stand it – engineering is impressive and that engine just keeps coming back for more.