Criticising the BMW 3 Series is a bit like suggesting that Dawn French has a weight problem. After all it's the automotive equivalent of Sir Steve Redgrave having been at the top of its field for the best part of 20 years. But buying a used 3 series is not the 'no-brainer' that it may at first appear due to the bewildering array of engine and trim options that can change the cars character enormously.

The latest incarnation of the 3 Series, the E46, was introduced to the UK in September 1998 it was the most refined 3 series so far retaining its traditional rear wheel drive set up at a time when most competitors had gone the front wheel drive route. BMW claim that rear wheel drive improves a cars driving characteristics and the proof of the pudding is in the eating. The 3 series is undeniably an impressive drive, the chassis inspires real confidence and the car feels perfectly balanced, getting better the harder you push it. All models also come with BMW's Cornering Brake Control and ASC+T both of which help to flatter the driver.

At the heart of the 3 series are its engines. In terms of outright performance the 4 cylinder models have little to recommend them, the cars pace coming from its cars ability to carry speed through corners rather than accelerate out of them. These base model cars are a favourite amongst junior executives who sacrificed engine power for badge status. Many will have endured a hard life so it's better to hunt down a private owner's car with a cherished service history. Stepping up to a 6-cylinder models adds refinement and a pleasant engine note but the 2.2 litre units found in the 320 versions are no rocket ships. Less eager to rev than the 4 cylinder it really offers few advantages. It's the 170bhp 323i or 192bhp 325i that start to fulfill BMW's boast of creating the 'ultimate driving machine'. The 231bhp lump in the 330i is a peach and significantly cheaper to buy than a used M3 so it's well worth a long look if you can afford the fuel bills.

But the real revelation of the BMW 3 series is the diesel engines. The 2 litre is as fun to drive as the 6-cylinder petrol thanks to big dollops of toque and a very refined engine note. And the range topping 3.0 litre diesel is nothing short of miraculous. Powering the car to 62mph in less than 8 seconds it offers the kind of performance that only a few years ago would have been impressive for a petrol engine car, all this with fuel economy that can nudge 40mpg. Visually the 3 Series is a something of an enigma. Its simple three box design and relatively neutral styling provides the car with an almost chameleon like personality. Find one in a non metallic colour and sat on steel wheels it looks as exciting as grey day in Weston Super Mare but get a good colour combination and some nice alloys and its personality is transformed.

In this respect the BMW 3 Series is one of the most colour and specification sensitive used cars on the market so be prepared to pay extra for cars in the right colour with the right kit. Sport models with larger alloys and lowered suspension are favored over SE models but do give a slightly harsher ride. Beware of non standard over-sized alloys that can ruin the cars refinement and increase tyre noise to unacceptable levels. German build quality comes as standard despite the fact that most 3 Series start life in South Africa.

Any excessive wear or damage on used examples should be treated with extreme caution. Insist on looking at the service book and be suspicious of partial history or duplicate service books. The cars variable service interval system can mean that cars extend intervals to 15,000 miles but 10 -12,000 is more usual. Look for original invoices to confirm the cars mileage is genuine. Inside the car you may be a little surprised to discover that the 3 series doesn't provide the perfect driving position, the pedals are offset to the right. The foot well space is also a little on the tight side, one reason why the absence of a clutch pedal makes the auto's a good buy. But front seat comfort is pretty faultless and the clear dials well lit and straight ahead make this an easy car to helm. Minor switches aren't placed to everyone's taste and some are small but all become second nature within just a few hours of driving. Rear accommodation is less impressive and three in the back isn't a activity for grown ups. Boot space is also marred by the intrusion of the suspension struts and the absence of a folding rear seat facility.
So is the BMW 3 Series really the near perfect car? I'm not sure, but while I ponder that question I'm going to watch The Vicar of Dibley on Satellite, I've always found Dawn French strangely attractive.

• Air conditioning – standard on all models since September 2001 facelift
• Steering – sharper steering as lock to lock reduced from 3.2 turns to 2.9 turns from April 2001 build
• Safety – twin front, side and head air bags as standard,
• Build date – shown on the engine compartment label located on the front nearside wheel arch
• Radiator fan – check electric fan works when engine hot, over heating can seriously damage the engine block
• Turbo’s – diesel models are generally very robust but some owners have reported blown turbo units, look for smoking exhausts under hard acceleration
• Facelift – most recent facelift in January 2003 changed lights, grill and bumper profiles although all were subtle changes
• Traction control – Cornering Brake Control and ASC+T standard on all models
• Boot space – smallish boot not helped by intrusive suspension units
• Rear seat – no centre rear diagonal belt and lumpy transmission tunnel makes for less than ideal rear accommodation
• Sport models – larger alloys and lower, stiffer suspension standard on Sport
  
  

• BMW 330d Sport saloon

• 5 speed manual gearbox

• 2000 ‘W’ with 30,000 miles

• Pay £15,250 at a dealer with 12 month warranty £14,000 privately
  
  
  
  

 © Jason Dawe Productions Limited 2004