Faults:

Not owned long enough for any major faults - fine piece of engineering most of the time.

General Comments:

Previous car was a 316i saloon - the estate handled as well as the saloon even when loaded, but the extra weight used up the extra 200cc of engine.

Great driver's car, economical and zippy enough for most uses.

The three series is the benchmark for small executive cars and the estate is the starter-car for serious load carrying - good for a weekend away.

Faults:

Replacement clutch fitted at 39,000 miles. BMW told me this was not uncommon.

General Comments:

This car is everything I could ever want from a car, the build quality is superb.

Don't doubt the performance of these cars either. I upset my friend after his 40k Porsche Boxster 2.7L could not pass me, he-he.

Faults:

Automatic alarm/key fob battery leaked, I had to buy a new one for £70.00.

General Comments:

This car is really good looking, stands out in a crowd.

Handles well, Michelin tyres go on forever & stick to the road.

Acceleration is a bit disappointing, but it cruises well on the motorway.

Faults:

Nothing that is a cause for concern. Bulb that illuminates the air conditioning screen blew. Replaced by the dealer at a cost of £24!!! That is the only gripe I have with this car.

Otherwise superb in every other respect. Overall the dealers are also helpful and good.

General Comments:

This is the best car I have ever owned. The BMW 'thing' definitely exists.

Mine is one of the very last E36 3 Series. It was an ex-demonstrator, passed then onto its first owner then me.

The attention to detail and little silly things bring this above any car I have ever owned. It's fantastic to drive at night, the orange glow of the computer, instruments, and climate control makes you feel like you are flying a plane. Also the engine is very smooth and powerful.

The leather is still very fresh and soft, and the paint is still in great shape. So it should be for a £28000 car!!

If you have never driving a BMW it is recommended. Recently test drove a new shape 325ci, that was out of this world. Next year maybe mmmmmm...!

To sum it up, a great ride, driver satisfied, powerful refined superb car.

Faults:

Steering rack completely replaced after 8 months.

General Comments:

Well, to pay £20k for this when you can currently pick up a Mondeo new for half the price seems a poor deal. Whilst feeling very solidly put together and with good handling, it still seems as though you're paying 25% for the badge. Still, we all continue to do so (Must keep those Bavarians happy).

Faults:

Vibration at the back under hard acceleration (later found to be bad rear supension), puncture, boot lock failed to lock with central locking. Replaced motor under warranty quickly.

General Comments:

First thoughts were disappointing, a little sluggish considering the engine size and fuel consumption. Nice leather interior and build quality. Not as individual as a Jaguar.

Faults:

Front fidney grills loose on purchase - had to be replaced. Analog clock faulty - replaced - all under warranty.

General Comments:

The best value for money BMW - especially with all the (M3 type) S Pack extras. Fitted Schnitzer lowered suspension - did not make any great improvement in handling but car now looks even sleeker. Black metallic paint hard to keep clean - bird droppings need removing quickly or will damage surface. Car a magnet for vandals - has been scratched once but otherwise is a pleasure to own.