Looking to buy a 2003 BMW 1-Series car? Used Car Expert has thousands of 2003 BMW cars for sale from 2003 BMW car dealers and private sellers across the UK.
There is something about the styling of the 1-Series hatchback that doesn't quite work in comparison to its closest competitors, the Golf and Audi A3. But once in the drivers seat it feels like a 3-Series, so that explains the firm used prices.
Because the 1-Series feels like a 3-Series to drive but costs less people overlook the small boot and that it is also hard to load. The rear legroom is pretty poor too, but not much worse than any other hatchback of this size, or indeed the 3-Series.
The 1.6 petrol is the cheapest model. 3 year old versions are around £2,000 less than the 2.0 diesels. Depreciation stays low for the first 3 years, so it's only after 4 or 5 years that they become good value.
The 2.0 petrol engine's MPG is similar to the 1.6 petrol's of around 38. So if you can afford the insurance, it's hard to see why you wouldn't take the more refined engine. But if fuel economy is the key factor, the 2.0 diesel manages around 15 MPG more.
If buying nearly new, then you should be aiming for under £17,000 for the 2.0P and under £16,000 for 1.6P. The 2.0D is more like £18,000. Depreciation stays low for the first three years, but after the first MOT, you can pick up a 1.6P for under £12,000.
The 1.6P has an average mileage almost as high as the 2.0D which suggests they have been company or commuter cars. As a result, the 5 and 6 year old cars all have mileages in the 40 and 50,000s and are £7,500-£9,500 no matter which fuel they take.
Used Car Expert recommends that you try to buy after a big drop in depreciation and before the next one, so with the current BMW 1-Series you would aim to buy a 3 year old and sell it before it is 4 years old.
Diesel BMW 1-Series cars lose most over the first year (from new to 1 year old), so that is the best ‘nearly new’ buy in terms of car for money.
Petrol BMW 1-Series cars lose least between years 1 and 3, so this is the best buy if you want to keep the car for a while.
Diesel BMW 1-Series cars lose least between years 2 and 4, so that is the best buy on older cars.
For advice on what to pay, see below and for more detailed depreciation and mileage & spec adjusted prices & graphs visit our price guide.