Rivals: Audi A4, Mercedes C-Class, Ford Mondeo, Lexus IS
Variants: 2 Door Coupe,2 Door Convertible, 4 Door Saloon, 5 Door Touring (Estate), M3
Engines: Petrol, 1.6i, 1.8i, 2.0i, 2.3i, 2.5i, 2.8i, 3.0i, 3.2i, 4.0V8
Diesel 2.0td, 2.5td, 3.0td
Gearbox: 5 speed manual, 6 speed seq manual, 6 speed automatic
We were lucky enough to be able to test drive 2 different models from the E46 range, the 318i and the amazing 325ci! You'll find that we will mainly test drive diesel cars of this size on the blog, but for two mid range cars, they were not that heavy on petrol. Our recommended BMW 3 Series E46 to go for is with out doubt the 150bhp 320d, but lets talk about out two test models.
The 2003 318i 4 Door Saloon was no slouch pumping nearly 143bhp to the rear wheel drive system. This car is very comfortable with its handling tending a little toward understeer but not enough to scare you. I drove this car for a week around Dublin and with mixed and city driving, I was averaging approx 35-40 mpg, which was not bad as I didn't spare the throttle when ever I had a chance to stretch the legs a little. I love the dash and the cabin lay out of the E46, the dash is easy to read and understand, and the stereo and Air Conditioning Controls are all within easy reach. The E46 318i is not known for too many faults so just make sure and give the car a good going over with your mechanic before you buy.
The 2003 325ci is as BMW proclaim, the Ultimate Driving Experience!!!
Our test car came with electric leather seats, air-con, 6cd changer, auto-dim mirrors, M3 wing mirrors and 192bhp pushing you along! As with the 318i, this car is planted at speed with a slight tendency towards understeer which isn't bad for a rear wheel drive car.
When you first drive the car, make sure to keep a good eye on the speedo and this car nearly landed me an overnight stay in a welsh prison courtesy of a heavy foot and a keen eyed policeman!
The 318i should cost from €2,500 up to €6,000 or €7,000. It will cost €593 to tax and is a BMW so it will be quite expensive to service and repair.
The 325ci can be bought for as little as €4,000 and will cost €935 a year to tax.
The BMW 3 Series, E46 range has scored a 5 star rating from the Euro Ncap Crash Tests.
Although these cars are fun to drive, the rising costs of petrol compared to diesel really means they are very under valued for the sheer quality of car you get in return.
Expect to pay more for a 320d, which at approx 50mpg is definitely the car to go for!
Gary
