WHAT PARKERS SAY ABOUT THE BMW 3 SERIES
SUMMARY
In the closely fought compact executive market, one model stands out
from the rest: the BMW 3-Series. It has history stretching back to
the 1980s and has built a solid reputation, and is the car of choice
for every young middle manager. It's not that 3-Series lacks any serious
rivals: the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is as prestigious; the Lexus IS
will push it on reliability, while a fully loaded Ford Mondeo is better
value. But its only the 3-Series, with its purposeful yet conservative
styling, which has struck a chord with the British. Its popularity
has not weakened residuals; even with plenty of used ones about, prices
are remarkably stable.
HANDLING
Larger than the model it replaced, this 3-Series is not the out-and-out
driving machine like its forerunners. There are still kicks to be
had, but it feels safer and more refined. Competitors like IS200 offer
give it a good run for its money, but don't quite match the overall
experience. You'd be hard pushed to tell which end is driven (the
3-Series isn't as tale happy as models of old) but it's safe and well-balanced
yet still sporting, particularly the more potent or Sport spec models.
COMFORT
Lack of rear space, a problem which dogged past 3-Series, is improved,
but still not great - that rear drive layout eats into rear space.
It's a car that's comfortable for passengers, with well-supported,
sculpted seats, but dont even think of regularly carrying more
than three passengers in one. The cabin is quiet when cruising. Good
sound insulation keeps out road and engine noise, but the sporty suspension
set-up makes the ride firm.
PRACTICALITY
The saloon is perfectly suited to cruising on A-roads, comfortably
covering hundreds of motorway miles at a time. Its not quite
as nimble around town but it carries the weekly shopping with ease.
3-Series is roomier than the previous generation model, but the rear
drive does compromise boot capacity a little. Although it's a good
effort overall, with very useable space, there are bigger-bottomed
and more accommodating rivals available.
EQUIPMENT
As standard, all models get an adjustable steering column, front,
side and head airbags, an air filter, ABS, traction control, automatic
front seat belt tensioners, body coloured bumpers and side sills,
a catalytic converter, digital clock, electric front windows, electric
door mirrors, a lockable and illuminated glovebox, an immobiliser,
head restraints, front sun visors with vanity mirrors, ISOFIX child
seats, cloth upholstery, leather rim sports steering wheel, velour
carpets, air conditioning, power steering, remote alarm system, height
adjustable front seats, service interval indicator and 16-inch steel
wheels. ES adds sports suspension, body coloured door handles and
mirrors, brake force display, and a leather gear knob and steering
wheel.
BEHIND THE WHEEL
It pampers the driver, with a fully adjustable seat and a position
that puts buttons and switches within easy reach. Dials are perfectly
sited and all major controls have been positioned to deliver a sporty
ambience - ready for action. The driving position can be tailored
to suit most needs but base models feel a bit spartan.
SAFETY
Alarm and immobiliser are standard, as is remote central locking;
satellite tracking is an option. All models have six airbags, including
side airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners and ABS. Safety is assured with
a four star Euro-NCAP rating - excellent for its age, but beginning
to be left behind by the latest models.
RELIABILITY
Overall, 3-Series is well built, dependable and has excellent reliability
continuing the notion of great German build-quality. Serious
problems are rare and although we have heard reports of the occasional
niggle, these are unlikely to be anything that won't be quickly sorted
by the dealer. As ever, regular self maintenance and keeping to the
service intervals will be of long-term benefit.
ABOUT LO04 NFD
This particular BMW is a 316i ES
Saloon with the excellent 1.8 litre 16v petrol engine developing 114bhp.
LO04
NFD is a Two Owner, 04 Plate car first registered on 17th August 2004
making it just under four years old. In this time it has covered a
tiny 35,650 miles and comes with a full service history the most recent
at 27,957 miles in August 2007. The service indicator is showing a
further 7,300 miles until the next service is due.
The ES model is comes with standard features including height adjustable
steering and drivers seat, multiple air bags, stability control and
ABS, M Sport leather steering wheel and gear knob, BMW Business Radio/CD,
air conditioning, front and rear electric windows, electric mirrors,
remote central locking, onboard trip computer showing outside temp,
average speed, fuell consumption and range, an alarm/immobiliser and
more. In addition to the standard ES specification LO04 NFD is fitted
with extremely useful rear park sensors.
Condition wise LO04 NFD is virtually as new, it drives superbly as
you would expect with this kind of mileage and it looks stunning,
you will be hard pressed to find even the slightest imperfection.
For your Peace of Mind this car has been RAC Inspected (View RAC Report) and our price includes 6 MONTHS GOLD RAC Warranty (View Warranty Details)
Please contact us on 01923 773 628 or email us at info@ukcarstore.comif you would like further information or would like to arrange to view the vehicle.
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