BMW 3-Series Saloon (1998 - 2005) 320d ES 4d Auto (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I work in Middle Management

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

Ohh a BMW, but so far it's proved cheaper than my Vauxhall Vectra.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No, the engine brake problem really is annoying.

What are you likely to buy next?

An estate with a German badge or a Jag XF

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£14,000

When did you buy the car?

February 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

I think I bought just at the right time, I got £1000 off, new tyres, tax, collect and delivery at service time and an MOT

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I got a good deal from the dealer

What was the dealer like?

Like all dealers, desperate to sell a car

What's it like to drive?

An excellent motorway and A road cruiser, but take it on a hilly road and it drives like a dog, the Auto gearbox coupled with the diesel is seriously flawed and whenever you descend a steep hill, it puts the engine brake on which is VERY annoying

What's it like to park?

OK

Have you had any problems with the car?

Bonnet alarm sensor failed and was replaced, also occasional issues with the central locking now.

What's most practical about your car?

The ES servicing package, which meant I had no real costs apart from tyres until I passed 60,000 miles

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?