1999 Bmw 3 Series Review: Complete Analysis
The 1999 Bmw 3 Series continues to establish itself as a strong competitor in the midsize sedan category with its blend of practicality, reliability, and everyday usability. This comprehensive review covers every aspect that matters to potential buyers, from performance and interior space to technology features and ownership costs.
What's New for 1999
The 1999 Bmw 3 Series brings several important updates that address customer feedback and maintain its competitive edge:
- E46 generation introduction
- Iconic 3 Series design
- Sporty driving dynamics
- Premium interior quality
Engine and Performance
Engine Options
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | 0-60 MPH | Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0L 4-cylinder | 150 hp | 148 lb-ft | 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic | 7.0-9.5 seconds | 20/29/23 mpg |
| 2.5L 6-cylinder | 184 hp | 177 lb-ft | 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic | 7.0-9.5 seconds | 19/27/22 mpg |
| 3.0L 6-cylinder | 225 hp | 214 lb-ft | 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic | 7.0-9.5 seconds | 18/26/21 mpg |
Driving Experience
The 1999 3 Series offers quick performance for most driving situations, delivering smooth acceleration and efficient front-wheel drive handling. The hybrid powertrain transforms the 3 Series's character significantly, offering exceptional efficiency without compromising capability.
With a curb weight of 3,200-3,500 lbs, the 3 Series strikes an impressive balance of performance and refinement. The suspension tuning provides a comfortable ride quality that absorbs road imperfections well, making it ideal for daily commuting and family transportation.
Interior Design and Comfort
Seating and Space
| Measurement | Front | Rear |
|---|---|---|
| Legroom | 42.0 inches | 40.4 inches |
| Headroom | 39.2 inches | 39.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room | 57.9 inches | 56.9 inches |
| Hip Room | 55.7 inches | 55.1 inches |
The 3 Series's interior delivers practical functionality for both front and rear passengers. The 10.7 cu ft of cargo space provides practical storage for daily needs. Interior materials have evolved to provide and improved fit and finish that enhance the overall quality.
Technology and Features
The 1999 3 Series offers practical features designed to enhance convenience and connectivity:
- Air conditioning
- AM/FM stereo with cassette
- Cruise control
- Power windows/locks
- Leather seating (optional)
- Sunroof (optional)
- Sport suspension (optional)
- Premium audio system (optional)
- Navigation system (optional)
Safety Features
The 3 Series comes equipped with standard safety features:
- Dual airbags
- Side airbags
- Side curtain airbags
- ABS
- Dynamic Stability Control
- Traction Control
Pricing and Value
The 1999 Bmw 3 Series offers excellent value with a starting price of $$32,000. The vehicle provides a solid balance of features, reliability, and ownership costs that typically exceeds similarly priced competitors.
| Trim Level | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|
Pros and Cons
✅ What We Like
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Solid build quality
- Practical feature set
- Impressive hybrid fuel economy
- User-friendly controls and ergonomics
- Strong dealer network and service
❌ Areas for Improvement
- Some electrical issues
- Cooling system concerns
- Valve cover gasket leaks
- Window regulator problems
Should You Buy the 1999 Bmw 3 Series?
🎯 Who Should Buy
- Daily drivers - Want reliability and comfort
- Value-conscious shoppers - Strong ownership experience
- Those seeking practicality - Everyday usability
- Eco-conscious buyers - Hybrid offers excellent efficiency
The 1999 Bmw 3 Series represents a solid option for buyers seeking reliability and comfort in the family sedan category. Its combination of solid performance and everyday usability continues to make it a strong competitor in its segment.
💡 Key Takeaway
The 1999 3 Series provides reliability with comfort. While not the most exciting vehicle to drive, it excels at the transportation duties that most buyers actually need.
Ownership Experience
Reliability
With a solid reliability rating of 4.1/5, the 1999 3 Series provides solid ownership experience. Common issues are typically manageable with proper maintenance, with good long-term reliability for vehicles that are properly maintained.
Maintenance Costs
Maintenance costs for the 3 Series are reasonable for the segment, thanks to straightforward mechanical design. Routine service and the widespread service availability contribute to reasonable ownership costs.
Resale Value
The 3 Series maintains reasonable resale value, performing well in the used market. This solid resale performance makes it a good option for buyers who plan to trade or sell their vehicle within a few years.
Comparison and Alternatives
The midsize sedan segment offers several strong alternatives to the 1999 Bmw 3 Series:
Direct Competitors
- Competitor 1 - Alternative option in the segment
- Competitor 2 - Different approach to the category
- Competitor 3 - Value alternative with strong warranty
- Competitor 4 - Premium option with advanced features
Final Verdict
🏆 Overall Rating: 3.4/5 Stars
The 1999 Bmw 3 Series earns consideration for buyers seeking reliability and comfort in the family sedan category.
Best For:
- Daily commuters wanting reliability
- Value-conscious buyers
- Proven mechanicals
- Those prioritizing long-term ownership
Not Ideal For:
- Driving enthusiasts
- Buyers wanting the latest luxury features
- Those needing maximum space
💰 Value Assessment
The 1999 3 Series offers decent value with its combination of features, performance, and ownership costs. While individual needs vary, the 3 Series consistently provides good value for its price point in the segment.
Next Steps for Buyers
Test Drive Checklist
- Test both gas and hybrid models to compare performance
- Evaluate rear seat comfort with actual passengers
- Assess storage and practicality for your needs
- Test the audio and climate systems with your preferences
- Experience the ride quality on your typical driving routes
Negotiation Tips
- Get quotes from multiple dealers for comparison
- Focus on dealer invoice pricing
- Bundle service contracts for peace of mind
- Don't overlook the value of factory incentives
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