BMW 3 Series E90: The Modern Bargain
The Modern 3 Series at Entry Price
The BMW E90 (2005-2012) represents the last 3 Series generation before the turbo era. With proven technology and still moderate prices, it’s an attractive entry into the BMW world.
Technical Highlights
Engine Range
| Engine | Power | Displacement | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 316i | 122 hp | 1,597 cc | Entry level |
| 318i | 143 hp | 2.0L | Balanced |
| 320i | 150/170 hp | 2.0L | Popular |
| 325i | 218 hp | 2.5L N52 | Strong |
| 330i | 258/272 hp | 3.0L N52 | Sporty |
| 335i | 306 hp | 3.0L N54 Biturbo | Top petrol |
| 320d | 163/177 hp | 2.0L | Economical |
| 330d | 231/245 hp | 3.0L | Power + Efficiency |
Why the E90 is Special
Technology:
- Last naturally aspirated generation (N52)
- Hydraulic power steering (early models)
- Proven platform
Quality:
- Solid build
- Good parts availability
- BMW-typical driving dynamics
Variety:
- Sedan, Touring, Coupe (E92), Convertible (E93)
- Petrol and diesel
- All-wheel drive (xDrive) available
Current Market Situation
Prices by Engine
| Variant | Average | Trend | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 316i/318i | €5,800 | -3% | 85 |
| 320i | €7,200 | stable | 112 |
| 325i/330i | €9,500 | +2% | 68 |
| 335i | €14,500 | +5% | 24 |
| 320d | €6,800 | -2% | 156 |
| 330d | €9,200 | stable | 72 |
Prices by Body Style
| Type | 320i | 325i | 335i |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan | €7,000 | €9,200 | €14,000 |
| Touring | €7,800 | €10,500 | €16,000 |
| Coupe (E92) | €9,500 | €12,800 | €18,500 |
| Convertible (E93) | €11,000 | €15,000 | €22,000 |
Why Buy Now?
The Right Time
1. Price Floor Reached Prices for E90 base models have hit their bottom. Well-maintained examples are getting more expensive again.
2. Last Naturally Aspirated Engines The N52 (325i/330i) is the last large naturally aspirated engine:
- Linear response
- High-revving character
- Classic BMW feeling
3. Still Practical
- Modern safety equipment
- Current connectivity retrofittable
- Reliable technology
Buying Guide
The Best Variant
For beginners: 320i
- Low entry price
- Affordable insurance
- Sufficient power
- Price: from €6,500
For enthusiasts: 325i/330i
- N52 naturally aspirated engine
- Perfect balance
- Reasonable consumption
- Price: from €8,500
For driving enthusiasts: 335i
- N54 biturbo power
- Enormous tuning potential
- High value retention
- Price: from €12,000
Known Weak Points
Engine (N52/N53):
- Valvetronic problems
- Water pump (electric)
- Oil filter housing gasket
Engine (N54):
- High pressure fuel pump (early models)
- Injectors
- Wastegate rattle
General:
- Timing chain (N47 diesel!)
- Control arm bushings
- Window regulators
Buying Checklist
| Check Point | Priority | Cost Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Timing chain (diesel) | Very high | €2,500-4,000 |
| Water pump | High | €600-1,000 |
| Control arms | Medium | €400-800 |
| Valvetronic | Medium | €500-1,200 |
| Turbo (335i) | High | €1,500-3,000 |
Running Costs
Annual Costs (Average)
| Item | 320i | 330i | 335i |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insurance | €380 | €520 | €680 |
| Vehicle tax | €180 | €240 | €280 |
| Service | €400 | €500 | €700 |
| Wear items | €500 | €650 | €900 |
| Total | €1,460 | €1,910 | €2,560 |
Comparison with Predecessor/Successor
E90 vs. E46 vs. F30
| Criterion | E46 | E90 | F30 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model years | 1998-2006 | 2005-2012 | 2011-2019 |
| Price level | Rising | Low | Medium |
| Running costs | Moderate | Moderate | Higher |
| Driving feel | Classic | Balanced | Modern |
| Tech complexity | Low | Medium | High |
| Value appreciation | Yes | Soon possible | No |
Investment Potential
Which E90 Will Rise?
High potential:
- E92 M3 (already rising)
- 335i Coupe with manual transmission
- 330i with N52 and low mileage
Medium potential:
- 325i/330i Touring
- Well-maintained 320i
Low potential:
- Diesel models (uncertainty)
- Automatic standard models
Forecast 2024-2027
| Model | Price 2024 | Forecast 2027 | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| 320i | €7,200 | €7,000-8,000 | stable |
| 330i | €9,500 | €11,000-13,000 | ↑ |
| 335i | €14,500 | €18,000-22,000 | ↑↑ |
| E92 M3 | €45,000 | €55,000-65,000 | ↑↑↑ |
Model Alternatives
Similar Vehicles
- Audi A4 B7: Quattro option, similar price level
- Mercedes C-Class W204: More comfort, similar technology
- BMW E46: Classic status, rising
Conclusion
The BMW E90 is the ideal entry into the world of premium used cars. The combination of proven technology, BMW-typical driving dynamics and still moderate prices makes it a smart choice.
Especially the N52 naturally aspirated engines (325i/330i) offer the last “real” BMW feeling before the turbo era. Those who acquire a well-maintained example now get a modern daily driver with classic potential.
Find detailed price information on our BMW E90 model page.