19 Jan 07
Less conservative than the E36, and considerably sharper to drive, the E46 received the full armoury of BMW's latest technological aids: standard ABS, traction control, stability control, etc and options such as sat nav, Steptronic clutchless transmission and xenon headlights. The 3-Series was, once again, the benchmark for its class.
Coupe models joined the line-up in 1999, with a sleeker, sportier edge than before; the Touring came late that year, the Convertible in time for summer 2000 and the Compact (2001) was much-improved. So, too, the more aggressive-looking M3, now with 343bhp and in Coupe and Convertible formats only. Lighter-weight limited-run M3 CSL models were the ultimate versions.
For many, though, the diesels are the true stars of this range: the 330d's engine is actually torquier than the M3's, the 330Cd coupe faster point-to-point than the M3 and the 320d an excellent choice. Now that estates are lifestyle accessories, the alternative top-dog 3-Series is probably the 330d Touring: speed, practicality, roominess and refinement. Many would opt for one of these over an M3.
Sold in huge numbers, this 3-Series was consistently in the Top 10 UK best-sellers. This means that there are at least plenty around for second-hand buyers to choose from - so you can afford to be picky.
Four-door saloon; Touring estate; Coupe and Convertible; Compact three-door hatchback.
330d; 320d; M3; 330i; any Touring will look good on the school run
316i and 318i (except Compact); basic-spec models; 328i looks pointless; diesel Compacts less appealing.
A less-than-perfect service history. Owners have reported electric fan failure; head gasket problems; noisy suspension; air mass sensor faults in diesels causing acceleration 'flat spots'; misfiring; diesel fuel pump failures; over-boosted turbos; wiring problems signalled by warning lights; failed electrics in leaking rear light clusters; corroded brake pipes.
Coming down now that more E90-series models are hitting the road. Cheapest low-spec, high-mileage saloons from £3,500, six-cylinder models £6,000-plus, end-of-line 330i up to £20,000; Touring from £5,000; Compact and Coupe from £6,000; Convertible from £10,000; M3 Coupe from £17,000, M3 Convertible at least £18,000.
