4 Star Reviews for 2004 BMW 3-Series

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.66/5 Average
459 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A six-speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) transmission is now optional on select 3 Series models, while a five-speed Steptronic automatic is now offered with the 330i Performance Package. Rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights and hands-free wireless cell phone capability are now standard features on the sedan and wagon. There are new alloy wheel designs for the 325i, 325xi and 330xi Sport Package. All 330i sedans get a revised grille -- a new black grille instead of silver, with a lower grille combination of body color and black. All 3 Series coupes and convertibles receive a revised front fascia, plus new front and rear bumper contours, Adaptive headlamps and taillights and new designs for both the standard and optional wheels. Interior changes are limited to a revised climate control panel. Finally, Sirius Satellite Radio is now available as an accessory on all 3 Series models.

Pros:
  • Available all-wheel drive for sedan and wagon.
  • Luxurious, powerful, exceptional road manners
Cons:
  • Pricey for its market segment, limited rear-seat space and cargo capacity.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 459.00
  • 325Ci Sleeper - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I recently got a 325Ci, after driving a 2000 GT Eclipse. Its just as sporty, but of corse much more refined and comfortable. In terms of performance, with the man transmission it is pretty lively. The 330 is probably more powerful, but I dont feel short on power.

  • The perfect balance of sport and luxury - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I am eighteen years old and this is my second BMW. My first BMW was a 2000 sports wagon and I hated it! It was time to get into something sportier, yet sophisticated and practical. I fell in love with this car the moment the sales person drove it out of their garage and let me test drive it. This car is just as much fun to drive as the day I took it home. I will only drive BMWs for the rest of my life!

  • Funtastic Drive - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I drove a 5 series wagon for five years and decided I would like a smaller car. Every time I took my 5 series in for service I was given a 3 series to drive. Once I got the 325xi Sport I was pleasantly surprised at how great a car it is. The car handles like a dream and has decent pickup. I always drive in sport mode as I did with my old 5 series. The only complaint I have had about the car if from my wife who thinks the seats are to hard. I would also like to have the keyless entry system activate from farther away from the car like the system on the 5 series.

  • It simply glides - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Became 3rd owner of a 2004 BMW 330ci with 26k miles in March of 2008. I fell in love with BMW during my first test drive. Powerful acceleration at all speeds. Goes from 60 to 100 without feeling anything. Smooth, quiet, amazing handling/cornering it simply glides. Be prepared to donate some organs to service and maintain. At 30k miles it needed rear brake pads ($250), alignment ($100), replace driver side door lock actuator ($800), replace throttle boot ($200).

  • Excellent Purchase - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    A pure drivers car! Outstanding driving characteristics throughout. Anyone driving this car should feel like he owns the road. Handling, acceleration, braking, and overall control and visibility are excellent. Very solid feel. You will not regret buying this car. Also, there are very attractive deals available for it.

  • 2004 325xi - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Just purchased from Princeton BMW in New Jersey. Have owned a Mercedes C280 and numerous Honda Accords (most recently an EX-L 2003). This BMW is by far the most fun to drive. I shopped the Acura TL and BMW 325xi and was able to get both vehicles for a little over invoice. The price points were comparable, though I was looking at the BMW with not many extras; automatic, moonroof and heated seats. While the Acura TL comes loaded for the same price. The BMW rode better. The Acura had a nicer interior.I believe you would be happy with either vehicle.It depends on what you want. I really wanted a sedan with AWD.

  • 3% better costs you 30% more. - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Japanese wannabes are either heavier (Newtons Laws will not be violated!) or less powerful. Im getting used to the SMG, and now I love it. I learned on US1 that youre glad you dont have to take your hand off the wheel to shift while passing on a 2-lane at 110+ w/ traffic coming! Proportions are spot-on. G35? Pulleeez! If you disagree, and cant feel the difference in the steering, save the 30%. Doors are long & heavy - you need to choreograph entry and exit. Valet parker white-lined it, but then lunched my left side wheels! Electric Red/Natural Brown; Sport and Prem. Pkgs., SMG, Xenons, 18" wheels.

  • So far, so good - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    I absolutely love this car. I take the long way home each day. I thought my V6 EX Honda Accord was a pretty good car. until I drove my 04 SP/6sp 330 Ci. I test drove the new Accord (coupe and sedan), S2000, and the Audi A4 1.8T before choosing this car. I tried to test drive an Infiniti G35 Coupe but was told I couldnt unless I put a deposit down. NO THANKS! The BMW dealers were fantastic!

  • You can do better for this much money - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    Ive had this car for 2500 miles now and can only say that it has the worst suspension, and drive by wire system imaginable. There is a 0.5 second delay after you hit the accelerator, and the car bounces, floats, and leans terribly regarding the suspension. The interior is nice and clean. However the performance suffers so greatly, I am going to have to upgrade both the suspension and software to make it livable. I thought it was the break in period, but alas, its made this way. Not recommended for anyone that owned a previous (E36 model years) BMW. The XI version drives more like an SUV than a sedan. For the money, its not worth it.

  • Great car - but probably overhyped. - 2004 BMW 3-Series
    By -

    This is a great car and deservedly a benchmark for the class, but dont blindly drink the BMW kool-aid. Overall Im very happy with my purchase after a little over a year. There are faster, plusher, and overtly sportier cars, but really very few that do everything as well as the 330 does. As long as it stays reliable, Ill be a happy owner. Keep your expectations in check though as in 80% of everyday driving, many of the qualities of a 330 are pretty subtle improvements over the competition and even down-market vehicles. The superior handling, performance, ride often are most noticed by their absence when youre driving a different car...

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