Classy BMW that Jeremy Clarkson said he ‘loved driving & loved being in’ can be yours for less than £10k
A CLASSY BMW model that was once highly praised by Jeremy Clarkson is now a second-hand bargain at under £10,000.
After reviewing the motor in 2014, the former Top Gear host even said: “I can’t really think of any car that is better.”
The car in question is the stylish BMW 435i M Sport coupe, built by the German marque from 2013 to 2020 that once cost £42,730.
Initially described by Jezza as a “sporty two-door version of the 3-series”, the 435i featured a six-cylinder engine that produced 302bhp and a top speed of 155mph.
Writing a review for The Sunday Times shortly after the car’s debut, Clarkson said: “It may not be the fastest car in the world but it is extremely rewarding to feel it turn one way as you go round a roundabout and then the other as you leave.
“Some cars wobble about; some lurch. A BMW just does as it’s told.”
Clarkson is particularly complimentary of the motor’s antilock braking system, saying: “Many good cars these days are fitted with a system that cuts in too early.
“It thinks you’re panicking and about to crash when you are not.
“A BMW waits for you to be an inch from the tree before it says, ‘Excuse me, sir. Can I be of any assistance in these troubling times?'”
In summary, he said: “I loved driving this car. I loved being in it as well.
“As with all BMWs, there’s no unnecessary detailing, no silly fuss and no superfluous gadgetry.”
But he added “Let’s be in no doubt, the 435i is not for everyone.
“It is not good value and it is no use for showing-off.
“But if you miss the way Knightsbridge was. Or if you want a getaway car that no one will notice. Or if you are a grown-up. I can’t really think of any car that is better.”
Remarkably, the 435i M Sport can be picked up for less than £10,000.
One listing on GumTree offers a 2014 435i M Sport for just £9,950, with 56,000 miles on the clock.
The silver coupe roadster boasts a 3.0-litre engine as well as sport seats, front and rear parking sensors and cruise control, among other interior trimmings – and it’s even ULEZ compliant.
Its current MOT is valid until May 2025, while the listing describes is as a “beautiful example” with “amazing power and speed.”
This comes as a car whizz revealed how he bought a luxury BMW for just £500 when it’s worth nearly £3,000.
Elsewhere, Nissan could possibly revive fan-favourite sports car as a “cheaper” option for younger petrolheads.