Faults:

The most serious problem I had was wear on the timing chain guides and a failed tensioner. I had to replace the entire chain at 180,000 km.

Other minor problems I recall from all the years I owned the car included occasional failures in the electric fuel pump, which would overheat the engine, although I never needed to replace it.

There were also occasional turbocharger failures, particularly with the electronic wastegate.

Minor issues such as faults with sensors, ignition coils, and control modules.

General Comments:

The 328 is a car with details typical of a higher-end model, maintaining its familiar feel while adding luxury and sportiness.

The design exudes strength and style, while preserving the elegant characteristics of all the brand's cars.

Just by looking out the windows, without even getting in the car, you can appreciate the superlative level of comfort. As soon as you open the driver's door, you notice that the seat has electric adjustment controls and memory settings for three different users, such as "mom, dad, and child."

The space for the front passengers is extremely comfortable; however, the back can only comfortably accommodate two, as the middle rear seat is hard and uncomfortable, hampered by the bulky tunnel through which the driveshaft passes, which reduces legroom.

The 2.8-liter, 193-hp engine moves the car with agility, and while the figures aren't astounding, they are certainly respectable. You can comfortably cruise at speeds over 170-180 km/h. The engine is barely noticeable at idle, and when you accelerate, it feels like you're taking off in a spaceship.

Fuel consumption is quite satisfactory, averaging 11/9.9 km/L in city/highway driving; however, range could be improved if the 63-liter fuel tank had a larger capacity. Under sporty driving conditions, the inline-six engine becomes quite thirsty.

Among the 328's strengths are the precision of its speedometer (with an error of less than 2%) and the instant response of the steering wheel-mounted controls for adjusting the audio system volume or cruise control.

Its key features (of which there are many) include ASC+T traction control, ABS brakes, six standard airbags (with the option of two more), a cassette and 6-CD audio system, a trip computer, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

For those who enjoy a comfortable driving experience with a touch of sportiness, the 328 is the perfect car. Its independent suspension on both axles, along with numerous aluminum components, results in a somewhat firm ride in the city, but an extremely safe and comfortable experience on the open road.

This BMW lives up to its original slogan, "more and better in everything."

A brilliant synthesis of reliability, high quality, sportiness, and safety.

Faults:

New camshaft sensor.

Interior electrical drain traced to faulty interior reading bulb fuses/relays, caused many a flat battery, was glad when that was finally sorted out by auto-electrician.

Many suspension and exhaust parts replaced at MOT tests during the last couple of years.

General servicing, oil changes, etc.

General Comments:

A brilliant car which I believe is the last of its kind, the older shape, not the 1998 newer one, but the shape they had through the mid 90s, although this is a 2000 model. Many commented the Compact was not a good car due to very old rear suspension design, however I found the ride quality and handling of this car to be fine and up to BMW standards.

The car was about 5 years old when I bought it, but had a low mileage and history (essential on these cars) showing all green lights on the dash. The couple of irritating faults listed above happened a few years down the line as the miles rose; I find this acceptable as the car did have a good history, but I think the previous owner drove it hard and did not take general care of it much. Dark Blue with updated 17 alloy wheels, this one really stood out, looked like a "stubby" 3 series coupe.

The 1.9 petrol engine updated from the previous 1.6 unit gives adequate performance and economy even when coupled with the auto box. I rarely used sport mode, and found it quick enough and a relaxing cruiser, averaging 32 + MPG. So overall a great little car that was an entry level BMW back in the year 2000, however I think it was worth every penny I spent on running it through the years I had it; only scrapped recently due to needing more work for the MOT test and it wasn't getting any younger or economical to justify. I think maybe an enthusiast could have gotten another couple of years out of it though, there was life left in it; even approaching 200K it was only using a tiny bit of oil between services, and still drove smoothly.

BMW dealers are generally OK, however they can be expensive - your best bet with any older BMW is find a trusted independent that knows these cars well to take care of them at reasonable prices.