BMW 3-Series Compact 318ti Sport Edition 3d (1999/V) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Bought 2nd hand from BMW dealer - was a little pricey but I think it's worth every penny as you will be very satisfied - I promise!
Costs
Very economical - essentially costs same money to run / tax / insure as an Astra of similar age.
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On the road
Driving
Feels very lively (especially in the wet!) - very much a driver's car.
Performance
Might not have a V6, but this 1.9l 4 cylinder engine churns out plenty of driveable torque and you must drive it hard to get the most pleasure out of it - excellent!
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Living with it
Reliability
Honestly had no trouble with this car, except it can start a little rough from cold but this clears after a few revs, known issue with engine design - not a problem!
Image
The base models looked awful but this Sport version, with the full M-pack on it looks great, lowered suspension, great alloys, old skool BMW shark-nose looks great as BMW's should look, not the softer, curvier models that followed.
Comfort
BMW quality so it feels plush inside - sports seats hold well and ride quality is superb, especially motorway driving.
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Security and Service
Security
No alarm fitted as standard, but has built-in immobiliser & central locking.
Service
Get it done 3rd party as values for these cars continue to fall so no point spending excessive cash on BMW servicing.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Except rough cold start issue - down to engine design so not a problem.
Other
Ensure you pop a little WD40 in the door key barrels come winter if you don't have remote central locking! Other than that, no problems whatsoever!
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes