Which high mileage small engined e46 saloon for the wife?

[scorcher]

Was looking at a possibly a MKIV Golf for the missus, once she has passed her test, but just noticed for a little bit more I could get a high mileage 2001 e46 saloon. (Have got around £5k)

Like this one fr'instance http://atsearch.autotrader.co.uk/www/cars_search.asp?modelexact=1&lid=search_used_cars_full&ukcarsearch_full=SEARCH&miles=1&min_pr=4940&max_pr=4940&postcode=E10%206RA&make=BMW&model=3%20SERIES&locale=STF

Which is very tempting, as I could mod it :cool: and wouldn't mind driving it either!

She doesn't really mind what car she has, as long as it has four doors, air conditioning and is automatic - for insurance reasons I want less than a 325, (although as she is 30 it shouldn't be too expensive)

Which engines do you recommend? Or any to particularly avoid?

[huzi7]

318ise would be good.
a 320 with a 2.2 engine

[Chaos]

The 6 cylinder is a much more accomplished engine with regards to driveability, but the 4 cyls are still pretty good. Personally if I was buying something around that money I'd look for a late low-mileage E36 323, those really were the jewels in the crown of the E36s and they're rock solid reliable aswell as bonkers cheap to run for what they are, plus they're now 3rd generations so they've lost all the money they're going to lose with regards to updates. Something that's been looked after and will stand you well, like http://atsearch.autotrader.co.uk/www/CARS_popup.asp?modelexact=1&lid=search_used_cars_full&make=BMW&model=3+SERIES&min_pr=4000&max_pr=&mileage=&agerange=&postcode=e10+6ra&miles=20&max_records=50&source=0&photo=1&sort=3&ukcarsearch_full=SEARCH&start=9&distance=16&adcategory=CARS&channel=CARS&id=200629101035904 maybe.

[scorcher]

Don't want an E36 - sorry mate! Had one before, and want something that with a private plate won't look so ancient :D

[Chaos]

No skin off me, was just a suggestion :), for that money I'd take a Golf over a high-miler early E46 every time then. ;)

[m3cslboy]

320d ! very good car !! especially if you get an Auto

or even a 318 cheap to run and reliable what more could you want !

These cars can be easily modifed and with your taste its gonna be a sick car Dan !

[Vin]

at that price range id go for golf everytime, how about an audi a3?

[scorcher]

Can't find any 5 door A3s under 5k :(

But lots of decent spec Golfs at that price. :)

Hmm. Golf does have hatchback, but E46 is another BMW, and haven't had one before - hmmmmm.

[Stock323iSaloon]

this one maybe?

2000 BMW 3 SERIES 316i 4dr Auto Saloon
49,000 miles, Boston Green,X-reg, Auto,ABS,Body coloured bumper,Drivers airbag,Electric door mirrors,Electric windows,Power steering,Full service History,Air Condition,Allow wheels,Central locking,Climate Control,Cruise Control,Front fog lights, Service indicator, Passenger airbag, Side airbags,Traction control,Multi-function Steering wheel, 6 CD Changer,Radio/Cassette,Reverse/Parking Sensors,Adjustable seats,Adjustable steering wheel, MOT(until 06/07), Road Tax(until 03/07),Front Arm rest,well maintained and clean.Very Good condition inside out apart from small dent on left rear door hence low price (£5250!!!!),Similar cars are going for over £7000!!! on Autotrader.for more information call Elle on 07951 035644 ellejaygold@yahoo.co.uk. £5,250. OVNOTelephone: 07951 035644
Distance: 26 miles
Price: £5,250

[Dirty Black]

Looks not bad