Beautifully styled car with timeless aesthetics. Attractive from every angle. Performance package (ZHP) adds desirable cosmetic upgrades.
Silky-smooth inline 6 engine with excellent power delivery characteristics. Great sound. RWD. Six speed manual has a significant improvement in shifter feel over the older five speed.
Most efficient six cylinder car in its class--real world results include 22-24 mpg in suburban driving and 30+ on the highway.
Precise steering with lots of feedback. 2003.5+ 330s have a faster steering ratio. Suspension is very firm and responsive yet not punishing. Lots of fun yet forgiving at the limit.
I owned a 2000 323i for seven years. I never tired of driving it and still turned around to look at it until the day it was taken from me. Only time it failed to start and run was when the battery died. Also easy to work on yourself.