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BMW Compact
For years BMW prided itself on producing the ultimate driving machines in
virtually every prestige sector — except one. It never had a model to
compete with the hot hatches from VW, Ford, Vauxhall and Renault.
That changed in September 1994 with the introduction of the 3-series Compact.
With a broad range of engines, rear-wheel drive and a prestige badge it
seemed an attractive package. But despite the hype the Compact never
fulfilled its potential. In fact with elderly underpinnings, dubious styling
and a relatively high price tag the Compact was something of a
disappointment.
BMW refused to give up, however, and in August 2001 introduced an all-new
Compact. Based on the newer E46 3-series it was larger, prettier and nicer
to drive than its predecessor, and with the introduction of more powerful
engines could now be considered a true prestige hot hatch.
Top of the pile was the 2.5 litre straight six. Producing 192bhp its
performance was superb: 0-60mph in a shade over 7sec and a top speed of
nearly 150mph. The entry-level 316i also received a boost and came with a
115bhp 1.8 litre engine while the 318ti gained an increase of 3bhp to
143bhp.
But biggest news of all was the introduction of a 2 litre diesel unit, which
blew away the 90bhp of the old 318tds with an impressive 150bhp. Not only
does it feel quick, it is also frugal, combining a 0-60mph time of 8.9sec
with an average fuel consumption that can top 50mpg.
The newer Compact also had better suspension, more interior space and a better
interior finish. Rear-seat passengers will find access no problem, thanks to
the clever sliding and tipping front seats, and once in place legroom is
easily as good as the competition’s. Only the rather miserly boot space
betrays the 8in reduction in length compared with the 3-series saloon.
Since 2001 all Compact models have had electric windows, leather steering
wheel, traction control and alarm. Pay around £500 more for a used SE model
and alloys and air-conditioning become welcome additions.
As with any prestige car you need to be fussy when buying a second-hand BMW
Compact — options, service history and condition can dramatically affect
value. The variable servicing interval can make checking a car’s history
tricky, particularly if it has low mileage as the service visits can appear
relatively infrequent. In these cases it is worth asking to see the original
invoices and even contacting the servicing dealer. Cars with a host of
expensive factory-fitted options may also look like an attractive purchase
but don’t be tempted into paying a massive premium: the money the first
owner spent on them is their loss and your gain. And be fussy about colour,
trim and wheel combinations. Classic blues, blacks, greys and silvers are
easy to resell, but those with red or green interiors are more niche.
The BMW Compact came of age when the new model was introduced in 2001, but its
time as king of the hill was brief. It was killed off in 2003 in
anticipation of the new 1-series. And while it may never have the following
of some of its competitors, there is no doubt that as a second-hand buy it
has many strengths.
Boot
The 300-litre boot is significantly smaller than the 440-litre one
found on the 3-series saloon
Servicing
Variable servicing interval is dependent on driving style but varies
between 8,000 and 10,000 miles
Wheels
Alloys are almost essential but check inside rim of 17in alloys,
which damage easily
Engine
Check diesel engines carefully as they require regular oil changes to
ensure longevity of the turbocharger
Warranty
Since November 2001 all new BMWs have come with a three-year
unlimited mileage warranty, provided they have been serviced in line with
the manufacturer’s requirements
Satellite navigation
A desirable option but do not pay more than £300 extra for a used car
fitted with the system
Security
All models come with deadlocks and an immobiliser as standard
Safety
BMW never submitted the car for a Euro NCAP test but eight airbags
together with traction and stability control should reassure buyers
Air-conditioning
Standard on SE and Sport models only
VITAL STATISTICS
Model BMW 320td SE Compact
Engine 1995cc, turbodiesel intercooler
Power 150bhp
Transmission Five-speed manual
Fuel 51.4mpg (combined cycle)
Acceleration 0-60mph: 8.9sec
Top speed 133mph
THE ONE TO BUY
BMW 320td SE Compact 2002 52 with 30,000 miles. Pay £10,895 at a BMW dealer,
£9,995 privately
53 with 30,000 miles. Pay £24,250 at a Volvo dealer or £22,995 privately
OR, FOR THE SAME MONEY
2003 03 Volkswagen Golf GT TDI
2005 05 Alfa Romeo 147 JTD Lusso
2003 52 Audi A3 TDi 130 Sport
2001 51 Merced C220 CDI Sport
2003 03 Volvo C70 2.3 T5 Coupé
VALUES
Source: estimates based on confidential CAP black book prices. ‘Trade’ is
what a dealer would pay to buy your car; ‘Retail’ is what you would pay a
dealer