BMW 3-Series Touring (1999 - 2005) 316i SE 16v 5d (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It probably says I'm a mid-level businessman (which I'm not).

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

My daughter (five feet eight) finds it a bit too cramped in the front passenger seat. My wife thinks it uses too much petrol. Our family think we should get a Mercedes. The neighbours couldn't care less if we drove a horse and cart.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No. It's been too unreliable. The quality seems okay, but BMWs really aren't very sturdy compared to Mercedes.

What are you likely to buy next?

We're thinking about getting a Mercedes C-Class Avantgarde stationwagon.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£18,000

When did you buy the car?

August 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Fair deal. Nothing special.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I wanted something faster than my old Mercedes.

What was the dealer like?

He seemed on the ball, experienced with BMWs, he knew his job and he seemed honest.

What's it like to drive?

It is great to drive both on small country roads and motorways. It has good acceleration and I particularly like that it goes fast and comfortably on small, winding roads -- for that it can't be beaten. I wish it had sports seats, it's not fantastically comfortable on long trips.

What's it like to park?

It's not hard to park since it's fairly small.

Have you had any problems with the car?

It has broken down several times because of obscure electrical problems. It may be an aerodynamic consequence of the shape, but after it's washed the back is almost immediately dusty again or covered with salt in winter. The rear wiper is tiny and its washer never works.

What's most practical about your car?

That it's smallish.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Heated front seats.