Overview & Reviews

A boost in engine displacement and technology, plus an available all-wheel-drive system keeps BMW's venerable 3 Series at the top of its game in the competitive entry-level luxury market. Larger wheels and brakes are part of the engine upgrade. Two-stage front airbags, reduced steering effort, a Cold Weather package and Dynamic Brake Control round out the major changes for 2001.

• Luxurious, powerful, exceptional road manners, available all-wheel drive for sedan and wagon.

• Pricey for their market segment, limited cargo capacity.

User Reviews:

Showing 131 through 140 of 243.00

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  Know your preference - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By JoeMarlin - January 1 - 10:00 am

  Without a doubt the performance is outstanding and the exterior design is quite elegant. I enjoy driving this vehicle. However, problems have made ownership much less satisfying than it should be. (MINOR: window squeaking, passenger door hard to close, moonroof shade off track, loose DSC related connection, popping noise in rear, clunking noise in 1st gear, bulbs frequently failing. MAJOR: failed ?sensor leading to engine overheating, vehicle shutting off at low speed while stopping). In sum, know your expectation (performance or reliability) and pick accordingly. Consumer Reports removed its recommended rating due to reliability problems.

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  Still fun - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By cabimmer - December 30 - 8:15 pm

  Bought this car after owning a 95 M3 for its four doors, steptronic tranny and luxury features. Still fun to drive, always feel the difference after being in the wifes Lexus SUV. BMW engine, tranny and handling are great, but the interior and electronics are subpar. The newer ones are getting better, but I just dont think the germans know as much about electronics as the japanese do (Ive owned 2 BMWs, 2 VWs, and 2 Hondas). On the flip side, BMW just feels better on the road than the japanese cars do. Overall a very positive experience!

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  best conv ever - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By joe/barb - December 26 - 10:00 am

  This is the best over all convertible that I have owned and Ive owned 6 including corvettes. Handles great, its always reliable and great fun to drive.

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  2001 325i - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By bakedflounder - December 24 - 12:25 pm

  I just got this car and am blown away by all the well-thought-out features. Its classy, fast and luxurious. This car combines sports performace with luxury. I dont feel like Im in a tin can at all... VERY SOLID.

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  The Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By David - November 9 - 8:20 pm

  Ive had this car for 2 months and I can honestly say its the greatest. The performance, engineering, and looks are second-to-none. Ive never had so many compliments from total strangers, which really makes me feel good. Ive had absolutely no problems with the car since Ive had it. The only downside might be the high-cost maintenance procedures. I can do them myself, but if they are done by the dealership, prices are quite high. If you can bleed brakes and change brake pads, change hoses and flush coolant, and change engine belts, then youll have no problem with this car. Buy a manual, and youll be fine.

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  2001 330i Convertible - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Anjubeto - October 27 - 10:00 am

  This is a well designed and great performing automobile with a convertible top that requires no effort to retract or put up.

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  Be Afraid, Be VERY Afraid - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By DowninTX - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I warn you - do NOT buy a BMW! I was very excited when I bought my BMW 325i new in 2001 - after shelling out lots of cash for the car, I expected it to hold up, but I was let down quickly. In the 3 years that Ive owned the car, Ive had to replace all of the window motors, sunroof motor, CD player, engine sensor, & now my air conditioner!!! CRAZY!!!!!!!

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  Rocky start - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By r11rs - October 8 - 8:35 pm

  This is my 4th BMW in 25 yrs, and by far the worst. Everyone claims this is a tight handling car...I simply dont understand how anyone can say that. Compared to BMWs of the past, this handles like an Oldsmobile! Its so loose, that it is pathetic. The design of the car lends itself to very poor visibility. The blind spots are terrible. Within the first 6 months of ownership, the car broke down 2x, with the same problem (bad auxiliary fan). BMW was difficult to deal with during these problems. Otherwise, reliability is fine.

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  SuperWagon! - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Edgett - October 7 - 6:36 am

  I was basically looking for a Miata which could also carry bicycles, groceries, etc - the 325 wagon fits this bill perfectly. It is an incredible car to drive (does very well for itself on the track even) and a real pleasure to own. Unfortunately, I have gotten to know my dealers service department a little more intimately than I had expected to, with a couple of computer problems and a dead rear wheel bearing. Still, there is nothing else like it on the market - it is only 2" longe than a Porsche 911 and carries a great deal.

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  Pathetic quality - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Mayer Rud - October 4 - 8:40 am

  The total of 10(!) window regulators have been replaced in just 21,000 miles. In addition, had to be repaired: electric sunroof, A/C fan speed regulator, windshild (replaced due to bubbles in glass), engine RPM sensor (car began stalling), MPG sensor. Also noticed a leak (on a rainy day) on the floor by the driver side (front). I am not a lawer, but in my book Ive got a lemon. BMW must recall all the cars with substandard power window regulators and replace them with the re- engineered ones since the replaced regulators are failing as well. While I like the performance and the look of my car, I am not buying another BMW any time soon. A car is more than just a smooth drivetrain!