Faults:

Heater stuck on heat (middle of summer of course); replaced electronic dash heater control unit - $800.

Jumping out of 1st gear - from normal driving only. Clutch & O/haul Gearbox - $2200.

Radiator tank exploded in driveway - common I am told. 2nd unit - $300.

New windscreen - damn that flying stone - $400.

Small annoying electrical problems fuses, parking lights and brake lights - cheap to fix, but annoying.

Several front disc brake rotors - again normal driving. Is this common?

General Comments:

We bought this car from a doctor with only 27,000 Km after 4 years ownership. We have had it ever since. It was like new when we got it and it's still has that new feeling some 7 years later.

First thing that hit us was the dealer servicing costs - Ouch! Shopped around for a BMW specialist and the cost reduced dramatically. These cars need to be maintained, and we have always serviced it as required.

It's been a very reliable car, and given us much joy. Once we started using premium unleaded, it performed much better. Handling is superb, interior is great, sound system is fantastic. We have added original factory options over the years, making it an even better car:

- Boot CD stacker - 2nd hand $375

- Driving lights - $175

- Tinted windows - $400

- Leather interior - cloth seats wore out - $2000

- 328 brakes - 2nd hand - $700 - this is because we were going through front disc almost every time we replaced the standard pads; ventilated disc seems to have helped - is this a common problem?

- M3 17" wheels - these look great, and the handling is even better; but unless you drive it on a silky smooth road, it feels every bump, pebble, ant, you name it. Not sure if I would do that again, given the sore arms I now have hanging onto the steering wheel around town.

But overall we have been extremely happy, and will be upgrading to a newer model soon. We have our eye on a later model touring at the moment.

If you are after one of these models, make sure that it has a full documented service and maintenance history; otherwise keep looking.

Faults:

Headlight blew, replaced all bulbs in rear lights as they looked abit corroded.

Haven't taken car for full service yet, as only have owned for 2 months. Needs tyres.

General Comments:

This is my second BMW. My previous car was an e30 325i convertible, and after much deliberation I traded in on this 328i Coupe. I have nothing, but praise for the car. Admittedly, it has a full bmw service history, and one previous owner, but it is just fabulous.

The acceleration for a stock car is amazing, rivalling many V8's a turbo cars. The vanos system is brilliant for providing low down torque, and then it just keeps pulling to the redline...! It handles quite well, with a good blend of softer comfort and stiffness for the twisty stuff. Interior perfectly designed for me, with good seat positioning (could do with more tilt/reach adjustment on steering wheel), and good access into rear seats. Boot/trunk is very big. Fantastic fuel economy, which continues to stun especially with rising fuel costs, and reliable electrics inside the cabin - despite remote locking I use the key as when you hold in lock position, it automatically closes windows and sunroof! which is a nifty feature...

Leather on drivers seat is beginning to wear, but other seats the leather is like new, completely unblemished.

Overall, this is the most satisfying of cars I have ever owned (this is my 6th car in my relatively short driving history), and surprisingly affordable to run for a University/College student's budget. I would highly recommend this model, if you can find a good straight version with a full service history.

Faults:

Dash Lights semi faulty. (needs a whack every now and again)

Indicator can be faulty.

Power steering pump leaking/needs replacing.

General Comments:

I previously owned a modified turbo Mzda Familia.

This is a much more rewarding drive.

You must like over steer and have at least a basic understanding of car physics to get the most out of this car.

Performance in the wet is fun, but don't expect to keep up with anything 4wd.

Still looks the business after 17 years.

Expensive service/parts is a downside.

Like to skull premium fuel.

Faults:

Creak from the passenger seat - fixed under warranty.

Expansion valve for the A/C just replaced, also under warranty.

BMW radio failed twice, which was also replaced with a new one under warranty.

General Comments:

A very nice car, although it is not really the ultimate driving machine. It drives a lot better than anything else I've ever owned.

Quality and build a little bit disappointing for a car that has such a reputation. Feels fast too. And people look at the car!