BMW 3-Series Convertible (00-06) - Review

Review by Parkers on
If you're looking for a convertible that performs as well as it looks, then the drop-top 3-Series is for you. It's pricey, but it offers status, a superb range of engines and a rewarding drive. What a way to let the neighbours know that you've arrived.
5 out of 5

Other BMW reviews

3.5 out of 5

Running costs

Specify a small engine or a diesel and drive carefully and you'll get plenty of MPG. Residuals are good and servicing is variable with use. Belt about in a big petrol unit and you'll guzzle juice and scoff tyres.

* based on most recent data

Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles per year

Unleaded

£1,705 - £2,360 *

Diesel

£1,457 - £1,602 *

The estimated fuel cost figure is a guide to how much this model will cost to fuel each year, so you can compare between cars. It's calculated by using the model's average mpg (calculated from both town centre and motorway driving) and the average fuel price. It's based on the following cost-per-litre: petrol 135p and diesel 141p. Prices are updated daily.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

14,000-16,000 miles.

Warranty

Three years/60,000 miles mechanical, six years bodywork.

Road tax (12 months)

£195.00 - £460.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

2 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
    167
  • I
  • J
  • K
  • L
    254
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

3-Series performs fairly badly on the eco front. With an average of 219 g/km CO2 across the model line-up, its emissions are a touch high for a medium-sized convertible. The range is not very frugal, averaging 32 mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2