The BMW 323 strikes a fine balance between driving enjoyment and everyday comfort. With dashes of executive refinement and luxury, it’s a smart choice for drivers who want practicality without losing the pleasure of the drive.
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Overall rating 4/5
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Space Practicality
Few cars have left their mark on British roads quite like the BMW 3 Series, and the 323 is a prime example of what makes this badge special. The 323 has been available in various model years, most notably throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s – part of the E36 and E46 generations. Compared to rivals like the Audi A4 or Mercedes C-Class from the same eras, the 323 comes up trumps for its rewarding drive and upmarket image. Owners appreciate the 323’s smooth inline-six petrol engine, sharp steering and well-built interior. Practical touches include good boot space, plenty of adjustment in the seats and high-level standard equipment. Later models began to offer more up-to-date tech and better safety features. While the 323 can be more expensive to run than some four-cylinder competitors, it a proper driver’s car.
Smooth, powerful six-cylinder engineRewarding rear-wheel-drive handlingQuality interior finish
Fuel use higher than four-cylinder rivalsFirm ride on sportier versionsRunning costs above average for classConnect with us
