EVEN in its lowliest form the BMW 3-Series is huge fun to drive and there are few others that come close to its range of abilities.
It doesn’t matter which of the last four models to bear the name you buy they all drive brilliantly.
Never buy without service history and, if possible, a small number of owners and a lower than average mileage for the year.
Best buys for fun and economy are probably the 318 petrol and the 320d four cylinder turbo diesel.
But the range of engines since 2005 includes 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0-litre petrol units in a variety of power outputs and 2.0 and 3.0-litre diesels also in a range of outputs.
There are saloons, estates, coupes and convertibles to choose from with a bewildering range of models, so it’s worth checking prices thoroughly to make sure you’re not paying too much.
All have the same marvellous handling and road-holding, superb steering and excellent brakes, combined with a comfortable ride.
Interior
Equipment is good even in basic models and original owners often enhanced that from the optons list to individualise their cars.
The seats are beautifully supportive and the driving position has plenty of adjustment for all sizes, but leg and knee room in the back is on the small size.
FAST FACTS
BMW 3-Series
Price: Pay about £6,250 for an ’06 06-reg 318i, or £11,300 for an ’09 09-reg ES
Mechanical: 127bhp, 1,995cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox.
Max speed: 129mph
0-62mph: 9.7 seconds
Combined mpg: 38
Insurance group: 23
CO2 emissions: 175g/km
Marks: 8/10
Main rivals: Mazda6, Audi A4