The BMW 3 SERIES (1998-06) 318I 2DR COUPE 2.0 CI SPORT is a stylish, two-door compact executive coupe, bringing BMW’s premium feel to a more attainable used-car market. It suits drivers wanting a smart, engaging car rather than the extra doors and space of a family hatchback or saloon. Checks on mycarcheck.com recorded 622 look-ups covering 275 different VINs, a useful sample of cars shoppers have researched. Those records show an average private-sale value of £1,000 and average recorded mileage of 116,000 miles; typical annual mileage was 5,000. The cars had nearly seven previous keepers on average, so checking each example’s history and condition is especially worthwhile. The Sport’s coupe shape and character make it appealing for commuting, trips and solo or couple ownership, though rear-seat access is less convenient for families. Against alternatives such as the Mercedes C-Class Sport Coupe, it stands out for its BMW styling and involving drive.