1997 BMW 3 Series 323i SE review from UK and Ireland

Clutch failed (faulty, not wear and tear)

Dashboard replaced (dials stopped working)

Drivers side rear shock absorber failed.

Stereo stopped working.

Aircon stopped working.

BMW ask a price premium for their cars, and I was happy to pay as I expected superior quality and the legendary BMW driving experience described in the motoring press.

In fact the car had a number of faults, none especially serious, but all irritating. The climate control refusing to blowing cold air was especially annoying. The interior is tragically dull for a supposed luxury car, and the trim around the door handles was wearing through. The glove box rattled and the seats were neither comfortable like those in my rover 400, nor supportive on cornering.

The driving experience fell short of what I expected. The car is quick, but feels reluctant to accelerate, holding you back rather than goading you on. The engine noise is soulless, totally unlike the satisfying muted howl of the V6 in my current car (Mazda). It is well geared for motorway cruising, which should be quiet and relaxing, but instead there is loud tyre roar.

The levels of grip are phenomenal, the car changes direction rapidly, and is well balanced in rapid cornering. The brakes are excellent and the car handles undulations and cornering without pitching or diving. None the less the driving experience is boring, totally lacking in feeling. Competent, but extremely uninspiring.

Overall the car is good, but there is nothing that makes it worth the extra money. If you want a competent car to ferry your family around, get a Rover 600 and save a fortune. If you want a totally reliable car buy a Toyota. If you want a sports car buy a TVR.

If all you want is the BMW badge, buy a 318i coupe and for gods sake stop wearing those white socks!