Faults:

I haven't been able to find any major mechanical flaws. The only thing I have noticed is the clock on the on board computer looks dim. I brought this to the attention of the dealer and they didn't know what the problem was, because everything was connected/plugged in appropriately.

General Comments:

BMW's are the greatest car in the world. I would reccomend them for any person, as they drive handle and feel great.

Faults:

Not owned long enough for any major faults - fine piece of engineering most of the time.

General Comments:

Previous car was a 316i saloon - the estate handled as well as the saloon even when loaded, but the extra weight used up the extra 200cc of engine.

Great driver's car, economical and zippy enough for most uses.

The three series is the benchmark for small executive cars and the estate is the starter-car for serious load carrying - good for a weekend away.

Faults:

Replacement clutch fitted at 39,000 miles. BMW told me this was not uncommon.

General Comments:

This car is everything I could ever want from a car, the build quality is superb.

Don't doubt the performance of these cars either. I upset my friend after his 40k Porsche Boxster 2.7L could not pass me, he-he.

Faults:

- Lambda-Sondd produced errors (replaced under warranty).

- Windscreen wiper electrics and motor (replaced by warranty).

- Damper shield of the left exhaust went loose (when driving in snow). Fixed by dealer at Swiss $ 0.--

General Comments:

Generally, this car is very reliable. There are some special technical things you have to get used to.

Everything is well built and solid.

Especially here in Switzerland, the M-Tech package (especially with the lowered down suspension) is not the best in snow - I lost an exhaust-shield.

Servicing is less expensive than with French cars here in Switzerland (lucky us!). In Australia and in America this seems to be "slightly" different.

The list price is high, but have a look at it after 200'000 KM... A BMW you still can sell... Try this with a Renault or a Fiat. And calculate what you've spent on a French car meanwhile. I really was surprised.

The 5-Gear automatic is OK, especially in town. You almost do not get the difference between a hand-shifted and an automatic looking to performance. Both cars are fast enough.

Overall petrol consumption is OK (about 9l Super-PLUS).

Faults:

Automatic alarm/key fob battery leaked, I had to buy a new one for £70.00.

General Comments:

This car is really good looking, stands out in a crowd.

Handles well, Michelin tyres go on forever & stick to the road.

Acceleration is a bit disappointing, but it cruises well on the motorway.

Faults:

Nothing that is a cause for concern. Bulb that illuminates the air conditioning screen blew. Replaced by the dealer at a cost of £24!!! That is the only gripe I have with this car.

Otherwise superb in every other respect. Overall the dealers are also helpful and good.

General Comments:

This is the best car I have ever owned. The BMW 'thing' definitely exists.

Mine is one of the very last E36 3 Series. It was an ex-demonstrator, passed then onto its first owner then me.

The attention to detail and little silly things bring this above any car I have ever owned. It's fantastic to drive at night, the orange glow of the computer, instruments, and climate control makes you feel like you are flying a plane. Also the engine is very smooth and powerful.

The leather is still very fresh and soft, and the paint is still in great shape. So it should be for a £28000 car!!

If you have never driving a BMW it is recommended. Recently test drove a new shape 325ci, that was out of this world. Next year maybe mmmmmm...!

To sum it up, a great ride, driver satisfied, powerful refined superb car.