Quick review of probably the best driving machine on a Company Car list. The 523 SE is a very comfortable, quality bulit product. Interior layout is excelkent and cabin comfort is high. As with all BMWs, the SE pack is needed to get the extras that help driving - in this case I found the cruise control the best.
I drive the manual version; the gearbox is slick and precise and the car is powerful enough that you do not have to row it ever. Engine noise is virtually invisible and it is a lovely smooth ride.
Rear seat legroom is very poor though. performance wise, it returned about 32 - 33 mpg on mainly motorway cruising. It is not a quick beast though - say in comparison to a licence eating 328 - although much better than the 520 which is simply not enough engine for the car.
If you can get one paid for by the company - even if you have to add some of your own money - do it... but think hard before spending your own £28,000 or so.
Good luck!
How helpful would this review be to a person making a buying decision? Rating guidelines
BMW 3 Series - Saloon - Rear (RWD) - 6 Speed Manual, 6 Speed Automatic - 1995 cc - Max Speed: 140, 143 mph - 163, 177 bhp - Diesel - Available Trims: ES, SE, Sport, M Sport
BMW 3 Series - Saloon - Rear (RWD) - 6 Speed Manual, 6 Speed Automatic - 1995 cc - Max Speed: 130 mph - 143 bhp - Petrol - Available Trims: M Sport, Sport, SE, ES
Not bad intro, but info on what the car has to offer would have resulted in a higher rating (eg comfort, ride, equipment, insurance costs etc.). If you ever redo this op, please let me know and I'll reread it and review my rating :)
Aug 23rd, 2000
very helpful by (33%):
helpful by (33%):
somewhat helpful by (33%):
