Images
1 / 2
Thinking of buying an ordinary family saloon? You might be surprised to learn that for the same price, a curvy third generation BMW 3 Series could be residing in your driveway.
Your neighbours will mistake it for a new car and you'll be taken for someone of taste, rather than a photocopier salesperson. At least, that's according to BMW...
+ More
What you get
German bite, pure and simple. A 3 Series is smaller than a Mondeo, but you won't care about that. For the driver, this was the most rewarding compact car of its era - bar none.
+ More
What to look for
The new-shape 3 series has established an impressive reputation in the trade - and not only because its digital odometer is nearly impossible to clock. High demand has meant that second and third-year depreciation levels are still considerably lower than more 'ordinary' models from mainstream makers. In other words, when resale time comes, you should get a lot more for your part exchange than you might expect.
Watch for loose or ill-fitting interior trim and cold starting problems on earlier models and there have also been reports of water leaks through window seals, and coolant seepage from radiators. Be careful when considering South African-built cars (all 318iS saloons and some 316i/318i saloons) as the trade talks of sub-standard build quality and reliability with some of these.
Watch for cars which have had many owners (this could be a sign of ongoing problems). Insist on a full service history, ideally with BMW dealer stamps. If you really want piece of mind, buy from a franchised dealer - but be prepared to pay a premium.
+ More
Replacement parts
(approx based on a 318i) A clutch assembly is around £130. Front brakepads are around £38, a full exhaust about £360, an alternator just under £225 and a tyre around £40. A starter motor is about £120. A headlamp is about £165.
+ More
On the road
Settle behind the wheel and it will feel good to be at the helm of a Three series thanks to the solid, quality feel of the controls and the silky-smooth performance. One of the advantages of buying a well cared for example is that the engine should be nicely run-in, so you can enjoy all the performance right from the start.
In the six-cylinder petrol-powered 325i for example, there's plenty on offer. Rest to 60 takes just 7.3 seconds on the way to a maximum of over 140mph. Add a set of personalised plates and even the most eagle-eyed enthusiast would struggle to recognise the car from new.
+ More
Overall
It's small inside, but if you can afford the 3 Series and you're in the market for this kind of car, you'll want one - and rightly so.
+ More
Have you considered these alternative models...
Find a Review
We have over 500 new and used car reviews to help you find your next car.
Browse reviews and model guides for all makes
