2003 BMW 325 test .
I wanted to find out what regular people like most of us, who have to work for a living, could find appealing in a BMW. So I test drove the most affordable car they sale in the US: the 325 Sedan.

The price seems right at first: about $27000. Which is about what others can charge for very well equipped Altimas or Camrys. BUT: the 325 with similar equipment comes closer to $35 000. Then you are against all the other well established luxury brands. And this is still a compact car...

Every single car magazine has been reviewing this car as the best of the best. Nothing can touch it! Well, let's see if it passes the "Burlapp test".
We've all seen millions of these, so let's not dwell on the rather attractive exterior design. Let's concentrate on the interior.

Like I said, a compact. There is not much room in there. The windshield feels pretty narrow when you drive. Nothing inside is really attractive or interesting to look at. It's actually pretty depressing...

And the plastics are not of a better quality than your average Japanese car.
Again, of the smallest car you can buy for $35 000. And it really shows when you try to squeeze a pair of adults in the back seat.

The car I drove was provided to me by BMW and was equipped with the "sport package" which includes "sport seats". Well... These sport seats match the comfort level of a park bench. They are flat and hard. A major pain after just a few minutes of driving.

As you can see, there isn't much space around the accelerator pedal, it just adds to the cramped feeling.

As for the driving, let's start with the good stuff. The engine, a 2.5Liter 6 cylinder, is very smooth and quiet. And surprisingly powerfull. There is always more than enough power at any speed.

And the 5 speed automatic transmition is one of the best there is.

BUT, you will have to leave with one of the hardest suspension around. It is NEVER comfortable, at any speed. Combine this with a hard, almost non powered steering, and you have one punishing ride.
I have no idea why this car is the darling of the automotive press. I guess all they think about is 0 to 60 numbers and cornering figures.

But for most people out there, this car is just to incomfortable to be a consideration. And it's not that reliable eat her. There is nothing wrong with the way it is built. But there is never a feeling of superior quality .

And there is a lot of competition out there. But for the ones who really cherishes the image of what they drive, more than what they actually drive, this is the perfect car.

You can also take a look at:

- Jaguar X Type: A lot more class and comfort for the same amount.

-Mercedes C Class: Very smooth ride. Some cheap parts.

-Audi A4: Skip the Turbo. Better with a V6. Not that much cheaper anymore.

-Infiniti G35: Much more room and style, but noisy engine.

-Acura TL: Almost perfect. All new next year.

-Lexus IS300: Much more comfortable. Very noisy tires.

IIn the end, it's all up to you. If you want to know more, go here.
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