2008 BMW 3 Series 328i

The 3 Series is BMW's compact sports sedan, offered as a sedan, wagon, coupe, or convertible, and it's the benchmark for sporty driving in its class. The steering is quick and precise, and the chassis feels balanced and eager, making it a joy on twisty roads. The ride is firm but controlled, a trade-off for the sharp handling, so you'll feel the road more than in a cushier rival. The cabin is driver-focused and well-built, with supportive seats and a clean layout, though rear legroom is snug in the coupe and convertible. The 328i convertible gives you open-air driving with the same balanced chassis as the sedan, but you trade the coupe's fixed roof for a power-folding soft top. Its 3.0L I6 makes 230 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed automatic, sending power to the rear wheels; it's smooth and willing, though the convertible's extra weight dulls acceleration slightly.