00:00 - SHOW OPEN

00:40 - INTRO - BMW 323Ci - An Affordable E46 3-Series Coupe

The motivation for this episode (other than the fact that the E46 BMW 3-series is a great car) was a 2000 BMW 323Ci with the sport package and a 5-speed manual that I found on my local Craigslist. This is definitely a fun-to-drive, but under-appreciated version of that era's 3-series BMW. That's because many enthusiasts mistakenly believe the smaller 2.5-liter 6-cylinder in the 323Ci is under powered. Well, it may be under powered if you're trying to "win" a track-day lapping session at the local road racing course, but as a fun, affordable daily driver, it's hard to beat this budget BMW sports coupe.

04:55 - What Makes the BMW 323Ci A Bargain for Budget BMW Buyers?

With its sleek design, smooth running 6-cylinder inline engine, and luxurious, yet sporty interior, this model continues to be a popular choice for used car enthusiasts today. Here are some of the details:

• Engine and Drive Train
• Acceleration/Braking/Handling
• Exterior Design
• Options and Interior Layout

11:15 - Potential Problems Areas On BMW E46-Series Cars

• Oil Leaks (Oil filter housing and valve cover gaskets)
• Coolant Leaks (lots of plastic parts that deteriorate)
• Crankcase Ventilation System
• Front Lower Control Arms in the suspension
• Window Regulators

16:30 - The E46 3-Series Has An Active Enthusiast Community

The E46 generation has a strong following among BMW enthusiasts, which means there is an active community of owners and resources available. This can be helpful when seeking advice, maintenance tips, or even finding aftermarket upgrades.

17:45- Typical Price Points For The BMW 323Ci

$5000-$7000 - Okay to decent "daily drivers" with some issues

$7000-$9000 - Good Solid Examples With Low to Medium Mileage

$9000-$11,000 - Some of best, low-miles examples will sell in this range. For example, a 2000 BMW 323Ci with manual transmission, 5-speed manual, but no sport package just sold on the Bring-a-Trailer auction site for $11,300.

Relevant Links:

MotorWeek Review/Road Test of a 2000 BMW 323Ci Coupe: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGp1-mQoCpM

21:35 - WRAP UP/CLOSE - Model Year 2000 BMW 323Ci

Any E46 3-series BMW kept in good condition is a sought-after used car due to its strong performance, excellent handling and enduring enthusiast appeal.  And the model year 2000 BMW 323Ci represents an outstanding bargain under that E46 3-series umbrella.  

It has the same stylish exterior design, engaging driving dynamics, and well-appointed interior that make all 3-series cars of that era great, but the 323Ci just does it for a lower price – and in some cases a much lower price, than most of its siblings.