Used BMW 3 Series Coupe 1999 - 2006 review

What's the used BMW 3 Series like?

You won't be disappointed in the BMW 3 Series Coupe if you enjoy driving. The handling is sharp, involving and addictive, but there's plenty of grip and some useful electronic driver aids that stop it getting out of control. Even with the firm sports suspension, though, it rides all but the worst bumps in comfort.

It's also a terrific motorway cruiser. The excellent driving position and logical controls come into their own on long hauls and the cabin effectively shuts out external noise, apart from tyre rumble.

Overview

The BMW 3 Series Coupe is quiet, solid, rewarding to drive and very desirable.

Pros

• The 3 Series Coupe handles superbly and has some fantastic engines

Cons

• It just doesn't look special enough, especially for a coupe

Used cars available now

In partnership with

BMW 3 Series

2.0 320d SE Highline Steptronic Euro 5 2dr

£995

BMW 3 Series

2.0 320d M Sport Euro 4 2dr

£1,500

BMW 3 Series

3.0 330i SE Steptronic Euro 4 2dr

£1,999

BMW 3 Series

2.5 325i SE Euro 4 2dr

£2,000

BMW 3 Series

2.0 320i SE Steptronic Euro 4 2dr

£2,150

BMW 3 Series

2.0 320d M Sport Euro 4 2dr

£2,295

BMW 3 Series

2.0 320i SE Euro 4 2dr

£2,295

BMW 3 Series

2.0 320i SE Highline Euro 5 2dr

£2,500

BMW 3 Series

2.0 320d SE Euro 4 2dr

£2,895

See all available cars

Whichever engine and gearbox you pick, you'll have plenty of power at your command, all delivered very smoothly. Drive more sensibly, and the engines are surprisingly frugal, too.

Inside and out, the styling is bland - too close to the 1998-2005 3 Series saloon's – but the quality of materials and rock-solid build are beyond reproach. So is the amount of space in the front.

However, this isn't the most practical of machines. Adults in the back will complain about the shortage of headroom, and the boot is no more than average, either.

Our recommendations

Which used BMW 3 Series should I buy?

They're all good, but go for a post-September 2001 car. That's when the BMW 3 Series Coupe gained an uprated chassis, better security and standard air-con across the range.

However, even from its launch in May 1999, it was well equipped: alloy wheels, alarm, anti-lock brakes, traction control and electric windows were standard. Nonetheless, many were stacked with options, so hunt down an SE car with tasty extras. Look especially for leather, sat-nav and xenon headlights, which will improve resale value.

Early 318Ci models had a 1.9 engine, which was replaced by a better 2.0-litre 318Ci in 2001. Our favourite is the 2.5-litre six-cylinder engine - either the 170bhp 323Ci or, on later cars, the 192bhp 325Ci - which gives the best mix of performance, refinement and economy.

The 330Ci petrol and 330Cd are swift, but you'll need deep pockets to buy one. The 320Cd diesel is smooth, quick and economical.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here