I'm playing around with some ideas of new cars because I can't justify getting my Audi yet. One that's caught my eye is the 3 series BMW convertible. I've been doing a bit of research and I do like the look of the M Sport, but which model? 320? 318? What do they all mean? Thankfully it will have to be a couple of years old so will be a rag top, rather than the hard top.

I'm sure it's been mentioned on here before about one model being a decent buy. I attempted a search but all I could find was stereotyping jibes

I was always under the impression that 318 is a 1.8 litre engine, 320 is a 2.0 litre engine, 335 is a 3.5 litre engine etc, but I think that might be a myth

That's the same impression I got and it makes sense, but looking on autotrader just now I'm not so sure :confused:

I was always under the impression that 318 is a 1.8 litre engine, 320 is a 2.0 litre engine, 335 is a 3.5 litre engine etc, but I think that might be a myth

I think it used to be a consistent rule a few years ago. Nowadays I think it's more of a guideline...

By the way I had a look around a load of recent 3-series bmws and have to say I thought the build quality on them and the engineering of the suspension systems was amazing for a standard production car. Should I come in to a decent amount of money any time soon then my money would make it's way to a BMW garage for a diesel 3 series

I think it used to be a consistent rule a few years ago. Nowadays I think it's more of a guideline...

Yep, in the up to 2007 lineup a lot of the engine sizes seem to be rounded up.

318 is a 4-pot 2.0l

320 is a 6-pot 2.2l (320d is a 4-pot 2.0l)

323/325 is a 6-pot 2.5l

330 is a 6-pot 3.0l (330d is a 6-pot 3.0l)

Worth pointing out that the "last shape" convertible ran until 2007 when it was replaced so there might be some run-out bargains to be had. The best model will come down to how deep your pockets are. The diesels tend to be in demand in the regular bodies, but you might find they're not so popular in the convertible and can be had cheaper. Bigger is generally better and the 3.0l petrol engine is lovely.

Chris

BMW 6 pots are among the most lovely engines you'll ever drive, but I have it on good authority that the new diesels are astonishing.

BMW 6 pots are among the most lovely engines you'll ever drive, but I have it on good authority that the new diesels are astonishing.

And will be in my next car

I thought you would have gone for an A4 convertible Pixel, they damn cheap now...

I did investigate the A4 as well, I'm not sure if that'll just make me feel more peeved that I'm not getting the A3 yet. So, the next question could be.....A4 convertible v's BMW 320 M sport convertible