BMW 3-Series Saloon
  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    A lot of car for the money.

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Not bad so far and economical for the power (136bhp).

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Absolutely lovely to drive as it has the standard M-tec suspension and brake setup (discs all round).

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    It's a rare 1.8 16v twin-cam and it really shifts. Will give an 8v Golf Mk2 GTi a run for its money. Particulary impressive acceleration at higher speeds (i.e. 70-95).

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    New thermostat is the only thing I've done in five months of ownership. Not bad at 100k miles.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Personally I love the look, especially with the M-tec kit and slightly lower stance and no chrome etc.

    Comfort

    5 out of 5 5.0

    I don't sit in the back, so I don't care about legroom! Very comfy in the driver's seat!

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    I've got a tough alarm, so can't comment on the normal car.

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Haven't tried them yet!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Thermostat went at 101k miles.

    Other

    Sticking wiper motor - well known problem.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes