More than its good looks and pricey tag, the difference between other luxury cars offering strong value and very comparable performance would only be known once your behind its wheel. Driving doesn't get much better than doing it with the 2003 BMW 3 Series. The 2003 model brings only minor changes to the line. Among them, the available BMW Onboard Navigation System has been re-designed. Sedans add a center rear head restraint as standard equipment.

 

BMW's Full Maintenance Program now covers four years or 50,000 miles, up from 3/36,000 beforehand. The 3 Series is available in trims like sedans, coupes, convertibles, and wagons. Ten models are existing, varying considerably in price, power, and packaging, plus their two M3 models. All are based on the same chassis and all ride on the same 107.3-inch wheelbase, but the coupes and convertibles share few body panels with the sedans and wagons.

 

Two engines are offered, both inline six-cylinder engines. As the 3 Series categorization indicates, 325 models get a 2.5-liter engine, while 330 models get a 3.0-liter engine. Sedan, coupe, and convertible are available with either engine; wagons are only available with the 2.5-liter engine. For a truly satisfying drive, the 2003 BMW 3 Series lives up to its potential and accelerates in a cloud of smoke.