BMW 1996 3-Series Saloon

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  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Waited until after the crash to buy this car. Three years ago it was worth £10k; I paid £3k.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Found aftermarket and secondhand parts cheap. Dealers a plain rip-off on most things.

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Fantastic ride with 50/50 weight distribution. Engine could do with more power.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    You need the 6-cylinder 325i to push a 3-Series to its limit.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    No problems.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Getting on but still has the edge and respect.

    Comfort

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Very firm supportive seats, quite comfortable ride. Cruise at 90 mph all day easily and return 38 mpg.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Alarmed and immobilised.

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Can't comment, as dealer prices put me off! Loads of ex-BMW people have set up as independent specialists and charge half the price.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Excellent, loads of service history that shows no neglect. Runs like new.

    Other

    See my website at www.geocities.com/ashleysbmw for more repairs info.

    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