BMW 3-series E46 (1998 - 2005)
330ci
Remember what real driving felt like
With modern cars taking all the joy out of driving I bought a BMW 3 series coupe with 6 creamy cylinders, 231 bhp and a proper 6 speed manual gearbox to remember how things were before car manufacturers treated us like i****s.
Whilst refined enough to take you to the South of France in comfort, the BMW E46 still delights as a true driving experience. With electric vehicles already a reality and the threat of fully automated cars looming very close, cars like these will become rare and much valued by those of us who don't just want to get from A to B. Unlike many modern cars which feel like commodities, much like vacuum cleaners, washing machines and dishwashers, the E46 still feels like a driving companion rather than a product.
It has averaged 31.6 mpg in normal driving. I use BP Ultimate unleaded petrol and have had no issues in the last 5 months. Buy a car like this if you like driving! It has a proper handbrake and a manual gearbox and rewards someone who appreciates these things.