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BMW 3 SERIES Used Car Review

The 3 Series is German car maker BMW's signature model - a compact luxury passenger car that has existed in multiple generations since its 1975 debut. Since 2014, the 3 Series name has applied to sedan and wagon body styles only, with coupe and convertible models adopting the 4 Series nomenclature. The 3 Series has long been considered one of the most entertaining cars to drive in its class, and the flagship M3 performance variant is especially famous.

Pros

Cons

  • Entertaining to drive with beautiful handling
  • Fuel efficiency consistently excellent, and often class-leading
  • Superb performance of six-cylinder engines
  • Good build quality
  • Run-flat tyres (introduced in 2007 in lieu of a spare wheel) bring a firmer ride
  • Four-cylinder turbos replaced brand's famous six-cylinders in performance but not sound
  • Adaptive suspension (optional on many models) needed for best ride quality
  • Interior presentation has generally lagged behind rival Audi A4
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
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Top2007 BMW 335i E93 Blue 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Convertible

  • 193177 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIAN WHOLESALE OUTLET. 6102. TRADE-INS WELCOME. WARRANTY OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO ENQUIRE ON THIS VEHICLE CALL FOR FINANCE OPTIONS CONTACT AARON ON CLICK HERE TO REGIESTER YOUR FINANCE ENQUIRY used cars, cheap cars, automatic, manual, fuel efficient, cheap, reliable, private, dealer, ute, sedan, hatch, diesel, petrol, small, service history,

$14,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
30/04/2024

Top2013 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0813 328i M Sport Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 99796 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$18,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
29/04/2024

Top2009 BMW 3 Series E93 MY10 320d Steptronic Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Convertible

  • 112528 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

The BMW 320d gives you the best of both worlds. With a hard convertible top to shield you from the elements. Easily converted into a drop top for those warm days to let your hair out. Features Include: Brake By Wire, Brake Emergency Display - Hazard/Stoplights, CD Player, Central Locking - Remote/Keyless, , Disc Brakes Front Ventilated, Disc Brakes Rear Ventilated, Door Pockets - 1st row (Front), EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) and Low KM's!! All vehicles come with min 12 Months War

$16,990 Drive Away^
Aspley, QLD

Dealer used
30/04/2024

Top2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Sport Collection Blue Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1500 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Factory Options fitted Glass roof, electrical Packages fitted M Sport package Sport seats for driver and front passenger Interior trim finishers Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M headliner anthracite Equipment package Professional Interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function BMW Live Cockpit Professional We are located in Rushcutters Bay, only 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. Our ultra-luxe and state-of-the-art showroom showca

$94,312 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
Yesterday

Top2007 BMW 320i E90 Blue 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 181866 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** 2007 BMW 320i E90 MPFI 2.0L 6 SPEED AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC Only $10,990 Or Finance From Only $55P/w ** This Vehicle Is Absolutely Immaculate! Come Down And Test Drive Today!** Economical But Powerful 2.0 Petrol Engine With a Sporty 6 Speed Automatic Steptronic Transmission This is Highly Sought After Combination** **Comes with Owners Manuals & Log Book** **Only travelled a super low 181,000 Ks!!** Credit to the previous owner!**Don't miss out on this one!** -Leather Trim -Sun Roof -Dual

$10,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

Top2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Sport Collection Blue Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1500 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Factory Options fitted Glass roof, electrical Packages fitted M Sport package Sport seats for driver and front passenger Interior trim finishers Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M headliner anthracite Equipment package Professional Interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function BMW Live Cockpit Professional We are located in Rushcutters Bay, only 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. Our ultra-luxe and state-of-the-art showroom showca

$86,200 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
29/04/2024

2019 BMW 3 Series G20 320i Steptronic M Sport Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 59168 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Experience the epitome of luxury and performance with the 2019 BMW 3 Series G20 320i M Sport Sedan.... This sleek and stylish sedan combines cutting-edgetechnology with exhilarating driving dynamics, making every journey a thrilling experience. Equipped with a smooth and responsive 8-speed Steptronictransmission and a powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine, the 320i M Sport delivers impressive acceleration and precise handling. Its sophisticated interior features premium materials and advanced ameni

$43,990 Drive Away^
Eagle Farm, QLD

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2020 BMW 3 Series G20 330i Steptronic M Sport Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 53057 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

***ONE PREVIOUS OWNER with FULL BMW SERVICE HISTORY*** *SUNROOF *LEATHER SEATS with HEATED SEATS *IMMACULATE CONDITION AND MUCH MORE, INQUIRE NOW TO TEST DRIVE THIS 2020 BMW 330i M SPORT TODAY. Our Volkswagen dealership is located in South Western Sydney just off the M5 exit. All our vehicles have undergone full workshop & safety checks. It will come with a free 2 year or 175,000 km customer care plan (conditions apply). Get the benefits of one-stop shopping with financ

$49,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Liverpool, NSW

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2013 BMW 320i F30 Luxury Line Blue 8 Speed Automatic Sedan

  • 121278 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2013 BMW 320i F30 Luxury Line Blue 8 Speed Automatic Sedan

$17,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Mayfield West, NSW

Dealer used
6 hours ago

2014 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0813 328i Sport Line Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 84488 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

LOW KM MSPORT SEDAN, STUNNING BLUE WITH BLACK LEATHER MSPORT SEATS, SUNROOF, GOOD HISTORY, EASY ONSITE FINANCE INC NO DEPOSIT OPTIONS AND SAME DAY APPROVALS, ALL TRADE INS WELCOMED

$25,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Palmyra, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2003 BMW 3 30Ci

  • 155700 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

2003 BMW 330i convertible Only 155,000klms, automatic and leather trim An excellent example, super smooth and powerful 171KW 3.0L 6cyl. Has all books from new and near new Pirelli tyres. Fully operating electric convertible roof. Be different and stand out in this sporty and luxurious coupe! Our Service Menu Includes: ✅ Top trade in valuations (even if you don't buy from us). ✅ Finance to suit all budgets. ✅ Great range of Warranty. ✅ Lunch time test drives (we come to you in yo

$11,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Derwent Park, TAS

Dealer used
Yesterday

2013 BMW 3 Series F31 328i M Sport Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 102986 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto

Dive into the epitome of luxury and performance with our meticulously maintained 2013 BMW 3 Series. This automatic gem showcases the perfect blend of elegance and power that BMW is renowned for, making it an ideal choice for both enthusiasts and discerning drivers alike. Its sleek exterior is matched by an interior that promises comfort and style, ensuring every journey is as enjoyable as the destination. With a robust service history and a commitment to excellence, this BMW 3 Series stands rea

$23,900 Excl. Gov. Charges
Burswood, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2013 BMW 3 Series 320I F30 MY13.5 Blue Sedan

  • 93643 km
  • Other

This immaculate 2013 BMW 3 Series 320i F30 MY13.5 Sedan offers a fantastic driving experience and its Key Features: - Parking sensor front & rear - Dual Zone Climate AC. - Leather Seats - Bluetooth - Satellite Navigation - Electric Sunroof - Two Keys - Odometer of 93,643 km - 3 Months Registration We are a family owned and operated dealership specialising in price range, value for money, and pre-owned vehicles. - Roadworthy Certificate - Full-Service History - Extended W

$17,979 Excl. Gov. Charges
Altona, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2022 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Steptronic M Sport Portimao Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 7008 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Buy from an Authorised BMW Dealer - We are a family-owned business located on Sydney's Northern Beaches that has been in operation for over 50 years. ** BALANCE OF BMW 5 YEAR WARRANTY & 3 YR BMW SERVICE PACKAGE - HIGHLY OPTIONED ** January 2023 registered BMW 330i Sedan finished in M Portimao Blue metallic with Leather Vernasca Cognac. Key features include: - M Sport Package with 19" M Lt/Aly wheels Double-spoke 791 M Bicolour - Equipment Package Professional - Visibility Package - Comfort P

$76,990 Drive Away^
Brookvale, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Sport Collection Blue Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1500 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Factory Options fitted Glass roof, electrical Packages fitted M Sport package Sport seats for driver and front passenger Interior trim finishers Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M headliner anthracite Equipment package Professional Interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function BMW Live Cockpit Professional We are located in Rushcutters Bay, only 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. Our ultra-luxe and state-of-the-art showroom showca

$94,312 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
Yesterday

2007 BMW 320i E90 Blue 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Sedan

  • 181866 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** 2007 BMW 320i E90 MPFI 2.0L 6 SPEED AUTOMATIC STEPTRONIC Only $10,990 Or Finance From Only $55P/w ** This Vehicle Is Absolutely Immaculate! Come Down And Test Drive Today!** Economical But Powerful 2.0 Petrol Engine With a Sporty 6 Speed Automatic Steptronic Transmission This is Highly Sought After Combination** **Comes with Owners Manuals & Log Book** **Only travelled a super low 181,000 Ks!!** Credit to the previous owner!**Don't miss out on this one!** -Leather Trim -Sun Roof -Dual

$10,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Osborne Park, WA

Dealer used
Yesterday

2007 BMW 335i E93 Blue 6 Speed Auto Steptronic Convertible

  • 193177 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIAN WHOLESALE OUTLET. 6102. TRADE-INS WELCOME. WARRANTY OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO ENQUIRE ON THIS VEHICLE CALL FOR FINANCE OPTIONS CONTACT AARON ON CLICK HERE TO REGIESTER YOUR FINANCE ENQUIRY used cars, cheap cars, automatic, manual, fuel efficient, cheap, reliable, private, dealer, ute, sedan, hatch, diesel, petrol, small, service history,

$14,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
30/04/2024

2019 BMW 3 Series G20 320i Steptronic M Sport Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 37415 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Experience the epitome of luxury and performance with the 2019 BMW 3 Series G20 320i Steptronic M Sport Sports Automatic Sedan, where sophistication meets dynamic driving in a sleek and elegant package. Crafted to elevate every journey, this sedan seamlessly combines exquisite design with advanced technology. With its smooth sports automatic transmission and potent 320i engine, the 3 Series M Sport delivers a refined and responsive driving experience on any road. Step inside the impeccably cra

$49,500 Excl. Gov. Charges
Bibra Lake, WA

Dealer used
30/04/2024

2018 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 330i Luxury Line Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 156081 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Buying a car just got so much Easier as we offer: Great Finance Packages Over the phone approvals Top trade-in value 1-5 Years Extended Warranty Roadside Assistance Guaranteed Clear Title Australia-wide transport Bad Credit? Pensioner? Ex Bankrupt? The Bank said NO? We Can Help with Easy Finance available so give us a chance... Whether you are looking for Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 We can make it happen with a

$27,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
30/04/2024

2017 BMW 3 Series F30 LCI 330e Sport Line Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan Hybrid

  • 64220 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2017 BMW 330E M-SPORT SEDAN^^* FULL SERVICE HISTORY^* 2 SETS OF KEYS^* M-SPORT ALLOY WHEELS^* FULL LEATHER TRIM^* TRADE-INS WELCOME^* FANTASTIC FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE^^Contact our experienced team NOW to secure this SPECIAL INTERNET ONLY price!^^All our pre-owned vehicles come with a 3-year Extended Warranty*, National Roadside Assist** & a 100 Point Safety Inspection. (*Please ask for a full copy of our terms and conditions upon enquiry of this vehicle.)^^We have easy finance options availa

$36,646 Excl. Gov. Charges
Morley, WA

Dealer used
30/04/2024

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Steptronic Sport Collection Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1550 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This BMW LCI 330i M Sport Sedan presented in Portimao Blue Metallic Paint is matched with 19" M Double-spoke Wheels and Black Vernasca Leather Upholstery. The features on this vehicle include: - M Sport Package - M Sport Brake - Electrical Glass Roof - Ambient light - Telephony with Wireless Charging - M leather Steering Wheel - M High-Gloss Shadow Line - Sport Seats for Driver and Passenger - Heated Front Seats - Electric Seats with Memory Function - M High-Gloss Shadow Line with Extende

$87,900 Drive Away^
Geelong, VIC

Dealer used
30/04/2024

2004 BMW 330Ci E46 Blue 5 Speed Automatic Steptronic Convertible

  • 128966 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6 cyl 3.0L

2004 BMW 330Ci AUTOMATIC CONVERTIBLE!! $14999.00 HAS ONLY TRAVELLED A LOW 128966 KLM SINCE NEW, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, AIR CON, POWER WINDOWS, FULL LEATHER INTERIOR, CRUISE CONTROL, ABS BRAKES AND MORE!! YOU WON'T BUY BETTER!! ONLY $14999.00 WITH 12 MONTH PARTS AND LABOUR WARRANTY!! CALL (08) ****2999 NOW!! WANGARA USED CAR CENTRE 7B PEMBROKE RD, WANGARA 6065.

$14,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
30/04/2024

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Sport Collection Blue Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1500 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Factory Options fitted Glass roof, electrical Packages fitted M Sport package Sport seats for driver and front passenger Interior trim finishers Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M headliner anthracite Equipment package Professional Interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function BMW Live Cockpit Professional We are located in Rushcutters Bay, only 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. Our ultra-luxe and state-of-the-art showroom showca

$89,900 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
30/04/2024

2003 BMW 3 Series E46 MY2004 330Ci SMG Blue 6 Speed Seq Manual Auto-Clutch Convertible

  • 213100 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 6

This is an impressive vehicle that will not disappoint. Be sure to organise a test drive today! This 2003 BMW 3 Series will be enough to ignite your motoring passion. Cruise the beaches with the top down in this 2003 BMW 3 Series. Check out these safety features: - Driver airbag - Side airbags - ABS brakes - Passenger airbag FIND US; now with TWO convenient locations. * TRADE-INS welcome. * BUY with confidence; best price guarantee on new & used cars. * INSTANT finance with competitive rat

$12,990 Drive Away^
Strathpine, QLD

Dealer used
30/04/2024

2009 BMW 3 Series E93 MY10 320d Steptronic Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Convertible

  • 112528 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

The BMW 320d gives you the best of both worlds. With a hard convertible top to shield you from the elements. Easily converted into a drop top for those warm days to let your hair out. Features Include: Brake By Wire, Brake Emergency Display - Hazard/Stoplights, CD Player, Central Locking - Remote/Keyless, , Disc Brakes Front Ventilated, Disc Brakes Rear Ventilated, Door Pockets - 1st row (Front), EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) and Low KM's!! All vehicles come with min 12 Months War

$16,990 Drive Away^
Aspley, QLD

Dealer used
30/04/2024

2013 BMW 3 Series F30 MY0813 328i M Sport Blue 8 Speed Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 99796 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$18,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
29/04/2024

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i M Sport Blue Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1500 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Factory Options fitted Glass roof, electrical Packages fitted M Sport package Sport seats for driver and front passenger Interior trim finishers Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M headliner anthracite Equipment package Professional Interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function BMW Live Cockpit Professional We are located in Rushcutters Bay, only 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. Our ultra-luxe and state-of-the-art showroom showca

$86,200 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
29/04/2024

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Sport Collection Blue Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1500 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Factory Options fitted Glass roof, electrical Packages fitted M Sport package Sport seats for driver and front passenger Interior trim finishers Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M headliner anthracite Equipment package Professional Interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function BMW Live Cockpit Professional We are located in Rushcutters Bay, only 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. Our ultra-luxe and state-of-the-art showroom showca

$86,200 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
29/04/2024

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Sport Collection Blue Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1500 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Factory Options fitted Glass roof, electrical Packages fitted M Sport package Sport seats for driver and front passenger Interior trim finishers Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M headliner anthracite Equipment package Professional Interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function BMW Live Cockpit Professional We are located in Rushcutters Bay, only 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. Our ultra-luxe and state-of-the-art showroom showca

$86,200 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
29/04/2024

2023 BMW 3 Series G20 LCI 330i Sport Collection Blue Sports Automatic Sedan

  • 1500 km
  • Sedan
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Factory Options fitted Glass roof, electrical Packages fitted M Sport package Sport seats for driver and front passenger Interior trim finishers Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M leather steering wheel M Aerodynamics package M headliner anthracite Equipment package Professional Interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function BMW Live Cockpit Professional We are located in Rushcutters Bay, only 5 minutes from the Sydney CBD. Our ultra-luxe and state-of-the-art showroom showca

$86,200 Drive Away^
Rushcutters Bay, NSW

Dealer demo
29/04/2024

Overview of the BMW 3

Overview of the BMW 3

The 3 Series is German car maker BMW's signature model - a compact luxury passenger car that has existed in multiple generations since its 1975 debut.

Since 2014, the 3 Series name has applied to sedan and wagon body styles only, with coupe and convertible models adopting the 4 Series nomenclature.

The 3 Series has long been considered one of the most entertaining cars to drive in its class, and the flagship M3 performance variant is especially famous.

BMW 3 SERIES GENERATIONS (SINCE 1998)

1998-2006

2007-2012

2012-present

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption

2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol: 5.4-6.7 litres per 100km

2.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel: 4.4-5.3 litres per 100km

3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbo petrol: 6.8-7.2 litres per 100km

3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbo diesel: 6.2-6.4 litres per 100km

Hybrid 2.1 litres per 100km

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR MODELS TO BMW 3 SERIES

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: BMW 3 SERIES

As with any high-end European car, don't go near a 3-Series that doesn't have a fully stamped service history.

Biggest potential grief comes from variable valve-timing system (VANOS, in BMW-speak) which can fail due to internal leaks within the hydraulic circuitry. Some six-cylinder 3-Series were even recalled to fix this.

Beyond a leak, VANOS can fail through a lack of oil changes as dirt and grit blocks the tiny oilways that operate the system. If it fails, it can cost thousands to fix and the car won't be right without it.

Any 3-Series showing a 'check-engine' light on the dash is cause for concern.

Some early cars from this series had a brake booster that could fail, leaving the car with brakes but no assistance, requiring the driver to press harder on the brake pedal.

Again, this was the subject of a recall, so check that it's been done on affected cars.