BMW 1996 3-Series Saloon

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  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Paid £5750 in July 2001, which I thought was good value. The E36 in particular is getting cheaper by the day.

    Costs

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Quite expensive to run. Bits aren't cheap, but it pays to shop around. BMW labour is expensive! I use a specialist for repairs and main agents for servicing. Beware full exhausts at £750 a time!!

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Handles superbly with an excellent ride.

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    The engine is an 1800 8v engine. Power is adequate and it is very economical. Mid 30s mpg.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Never let me down once in 12 months.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Starting to slip a bit now with the introduction of the new 3 series.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Very comfortable. Did 400 miles in a day with no complaints.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Standard fit deadlocks only.

    Service

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Excellent. Main agent servicing is worth it and BMW send a magazine every so often too!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    Driver's seat wore through at 77k miles.

    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