Faults:

Nothing aside from while getting an oil change at a local jiffy lube, they recommended I flush the coolant, so I had them do it. They somehow screwed that up, costing me $300 to replace the thermostat and fan clutch (which was weak, and had to come off to get at the thermostat, so I had that replaced while in there).

Driver's seat frame is broken, so the back leans to the right. No problem, just prop it up with something.

General Comments:

I picked the car up for $500 at a local auction with 182,000 miles on it. When I got it, performance wasn't great, so I bought a chip for the ECU from Turner Motorsports. I HIGHLY recommend the chip for better power and mpg's. Great year round car, just make sure to have good tires and keep traction control on in the winter.

Engine is strong, and with the chip will rev to 7000rpm, where it still pulls! 5 speed is very smooth and easy to drive, clutch feels great. Gets around 23mpg city, and 28 highway.

I've been driving this car hard for several months and about 13,000 miles without a problem. Whether you're just cruising around or racing all night, the car is just great. Very impressive for a 2.5L.

Faults:

Needed a thermostat 1 week after purchase @ 91000 miles and took the car to a BMW Dealer for Inspection 2. The bill was over £700 and including some other minor works. I have never been back since.

The driver's electric window kept sticking and eventually stopped working @ 110000 miles. Fixed by a BMW Specialist. I don't think I could afford to own a BMW if it was not for them.

The central locking kept making a buzzing noise when operated @ 115000 miles. I worked out the noise was coming from the petrol filler cap housing and disconnected it from the central locking circuit. No more buzzing sound.

There is a knocking noise coming from the fan when operated at low setting. The BMW specialist told me it is probably in need of a new fan which will no cost a lot to put right.

General Comments:

The performance and handling from this car is shocking for an estate car. The 150 horses scream when pushed and really pump up the adrenalin. The steering is spot on. The car goes where you point it. The Z chassis performs well in the wet and I have never lost the tail end. I have taken on newer sports cars and thrashed them at the lights and round bends. Forget about listed performance tables, drive one to know one.

The leather seats are very comfortable and supportive.

Space in the car is a premium. Legroom in the front and the back is compromised, but the boot is reasonable for a small BMW. If you and your family are tall, the 5 Series would be better suited for you.

No rattles except for the sunroof which occasionally rattles, but is put right by pressing it firmly and releasing it.

I advise anyone intending on buying this car to make sure it has a creditable service history and has been well maintained regardless of cost.

The fuel economy may not be as good as newer models, but it still returns 34 mpg combined if driven sensibly.