At first glance, the E46 BMW 3-series is just another compact sedan. But there are a multitude of small details that truly set it apart from the competition. It’s clear from the styling that this car is sporty. A low roofline, long hood, and purposeful curves give the car a profile that suggests speed. The entry level 3-ers (318i and 325i) may not live up to their image, but the 328i, equipped with a 193hp straight-6, is indeed fast. There is ample torque from low RPM in the first three gears, and once you get the revs above 3500 in any gear, there’s enough to press you firmly against the backrest. Inside, the atmosphere is one of warmth and comfort. The soft leather and shiny wood trim provide the ambiance of a cozy living room. Standard equipment includes automatic two-zone climate control, memory power seats, one-touch windows all around, and steering wheel audio controls—small conveniences that become hard to live without once one has become accustomed to them. Options include a sport package that upgrades the already nimble suspension, and a premium Harmon Kardon stereo that is specifically tuned to fill the car with well-balanced sound. Unlike most new cars, your available options are not limited by selecting a manual transmission. And you’ll certainly want to go for the stickshift if you want to properly appreciate the driving experience this car can provide.

Basics: RWD, straight six, naturally aspirated, 20 year old chassis design. Engine: a masterpiece. Sounds great, goes incredibly well, easy to maintain, surprisingly easy on fuel. 24 valves as opposed to the older 12v units. Handling: steering is quite remote, but reassuringly weighted and accurate. Chassis is FUN, but can bite if you are heavy handed. Very tractable, easy to drift, and a great kick on twisty roads. Suspension more suited to cruising than sports driving, but more than acceptable. Brakes aren't great, but do the job. Acceleration/speed: fast. Pulls eagerly from 800rpm, once it hits 4,500 it'll howl all the way to 6,400 in a delightfully addictive fashion. Powerband is full all the way round the rev range. From 20mph, you can use 5th all the time. Power can be increased easily with new intake manifold & remap. Practicality: better than most BMWs, but not amazing compared to many family hatches due to RWD layout and contemporary engineering. Boot can fit plenty in it- I've had four suitcases in there- but it's not a typical square loading bay. Rear seats are best for shorter people, or short people in the front so the seats can go forward. Quality: very good. The car is 13 years old and feels tight, strong & solid. Interior is very dated, but well built and comfortable. Very little rust outside, shutlines are great. Je ne sais quoi: it's a personable car, this one. They get under your skin. It may not be incredibly economical, but 30mpg combined is not to be sniffed at from a large straight six with no turbos going on. It feels loyal, enjoyable and fun. I'm very attached to mine.

Great car. Best ive ever owned! I love my BMW. it performs quite well for its age. I clocked 0-60 at 6.8 seconds. It is a blast to drive. Its quick and gets great MPG's. The only downfall of the car is that its a pain to work on and replacement/aftermarket parts are pretty expensive. All in all though its a great car. Ill never own another car that is not a BMW.

IT' S FAST and has a good engine Performance – good acceleration, braking, handling Build Quality – has not needed repairs Appearance – both interior and exterior styling Cost of Ownership – gas mileage, maintenance pretty low Fun Factor – car fun to drive

Good car, loved having it. I was very sad to have to take it back in after only 4 months.