Other BMW 3-Series (1998 - 2006) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    It says I'm a sensible, discerning driver with a family who wants the most sporty practical drive around!

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

    My family love my car prefering it to my wife's Merc C180. Friends have also been impressed, but not with the cramped rear leg room (I have some tall friends).

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes I would buy it again. Other than the expensive turbo, it's been great, reliable and inexpensive to maintain.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Test driving an 08 320i saloon tomorrow! BMW is best for me, but am going back to petrol.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £9,600

    When did you buy the car?

    September 2007

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    I think I got a good deal. They were honest, friendly and they showed me the car before it went into the workshop for touch ups etc. Knocked £500 off list due to no PX.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    My previous car had been written off by a white van man!

    What was the dealer like?

    Blackhorse of Oldbury. Have used them twice now and been very happy on both occasions.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    It's fabulous to drive! Gearbox is easy and clear to use (although reverse can be a bit tricky until you've got the knack. Fast 'n' frugal. I love driving it, BUT it's a bit tiresome in slow traffic. Likes twisty long roads and the M6!

    What's it like to park?

    All round visibility is great. Rear parking aid has been great.

  • Living with it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Yes there have been niggles and one major issue! Turbo went at 90,000 miles Very expensive! Handbrake is rubbish (a common fault), radio speaker plays up, and BMW tells me it needs a de-coke!

    What's most practical about your car?

    It has everything! Economy (but not as good as the book says). Room for 5 and a dog, and a very sporty chassis. I love it.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    I have added a 6 disc CD changer myself. Don't let BMW tell you that they have got to do it, becausea quick visit to eBay can make BMW Business single slot player a 6+1 player.