BMW 1998 3-Series Compact

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  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Good sturdy motor... holds value well...

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Pay high and you get a car that will last... watch out for the high milers and pure crap that's glammed up at the dealers, though.

  • On the road

    Driving

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Really nice drive, but don't push it in the wet - I nearly wrote mine off recently!

    Performance

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Dead sluggish. If you want performance, buy the 318ti - it's 40 brake more and you can tell! Great for the badge freaks, but not when you struggle to get away from a metro at the lights! Honest!

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Starts every time!

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    As before, great for anyone who likes to flash at those who cannot afford BMW, but then who can't these days... loans etc, ha!

    Comfort

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Very comfortable. I have the sports seats, as it's a compact sport slightly stiffer suspension and better interior.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Average standard BMW immobilisor. That's all...

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Bought privately.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Blocked radiator after 2 months... thought it was the head gasket and nearly s**t myself... if head gasket, you're talking £500+.

    Other

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes