BMW 3-Series Saloon (2005 - 2011) 320si 4d (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I think it says I'm really into motorsport and that I appreciate safe, swift driving and engineering excellence. But I fear the rest of the world looks at it and thinks I'm a boy racer who needs to grow up and get a diesel Audi liker everyone else.

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

They love it, particularly the lovely Dakota black leather interior, the good condition of the car and the decent stereo.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I think so, though I would like more power and another two cylinders...

What are you likely to buy next?

A 325 or 330 E90, either saloon or Touring. I might not go M-Sport this time either, just for the improved ride quality.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£10,000

When did you buy the car?

September 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Not particularly – I never do. I think you need to be happy to walk away to stand any chance of haggling, and by the time I found this car, with all the right options, colour and mileage, I wasn't about to let it go...

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I had been looking for an E46 330 M-Sport Touring, but good (manual) ones are so expensive the E90 SIs started popping up in my searches. I love the look homologation special feel of the car.

What was the dealer like?

Sweetness itself, but then I would be if you'd just popped £10k into my account.

What's it like to drive?

Really lovely. The ride quality is very firm and unforgiving but the pay-off is exceptional grip and composure, almost regardless of the weather (I've never drive anything with so much sheer grip, even in the rain). The only disappointment is that it feels like the car barely needs you. With all that grip and pretty modest power, my cat could drive it quickly, no problem.

What's it like to park?

Easy, especially with the PDC my car has.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not yet, touch wood.

What's most practical about your car?

At the end of the day, despite the carbon fibre everywhere and the BMW Motorsport wheels, it's a four-door 3-Series, so it's incredible practical; easy to get in and out of, good rear legroom, decent boot, fast-ish, comfortable, quiet...

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Bluetooth connectivity and cruise control weirdly - I wasn't particularly looking for either. Being able to make and receive calls makes longer journeys fly by, and the cruise is brilliant for sticking to 30, 40 and 50mph speed limits - roll into town, hit the button and cruise through taking on the fine Georgian architecture.