There’s something special about a BMW. The combination of handling, style and Germanic quality that earns them such good reviews when they’re new makes them an obvious target for used car buyers too.

And they’re not a bad target to pick either as pre-owned Beemers have a decent reliability record. The number of them on the used car market means you can easily track down a classy and relatively cheap-to-run premium car for not much money.

Which one is best? In reverse order, here are our top ten used BMW choices.

10: 3 GT

If you don’t fancy the look of BMW’s Touring, the hatchback GT is a smart option. It’s nearly as practical as the estate and has a unique style of its own.

Buyer beware: Nothing special to look out for – just try to steer clear of cars that seem to have undue amounts of wear.

9: Z4

It’s been around a while, but BMW’s sportster still cuts a dash on the High Street and on faster roads. It’s a decent drive with lots of equipment including a neat folding roof. Forget the big-engined cars: the sDrive20i is plenty fast enough.

Buyer beware: Odd rattles come from behind the dash – it’s not necessarily a dealbreaker, but unidentifiable squeaks can be annoying over time.

8: X5

Powered by the 30d diesel engine, BMW’s big SUV scores in just about every heading: handling, performance, practicality – and even economy.

Buyer beware: reliability isn’t the X5’s strong point, and fixing problems will hurt your wallet, so spend time checking over any contenders.

7: X3

Bargain used X3s aren’t common. That’s because they are excellent cars and in demand. If you can’t afford to scratch your SUV itch with one of these then the smaller X1 is a lot more affordable.

Buyer beware: Rust has been known to take hold in X3 roof rails.

6: 4 Series Coupe

Not so much used as ‘nearly new’, the 4 Series is a quick and fun four-seater with decent cargo-carrying potential. Choose a higher-powered petrol version like the 435i and you’ll profit from someone else’s depreciation hit.

Buyer beware: No generic quirks yet, but watch out for evidence of thrashing.

5: 3 Series Touring

Though BMW’s compact exec estate isn’t quite as convincing as the 5 Series load-carrier, it’s still an excellent mix of driving pleasure, economy and premium feel. Petrol versions are best, which is a shame as used ones are thin on the ground.

Buyer beware: Check the stop-start system for correct function.

4: 5 Series Touring

Few if any big estates drive as well as the 5 Series Touring. Again, there’s an option in the offbeat shape of the 5 Series GT. Its weird looks disguise good practicality and massive rear legroom.

Buyer beware: Make sure the air-con and passenger comfort electronics work.

3: 5 Series

An all-round masterpiece, and excellent used value in 530d or 520d diesel formats. Treat yourself to a high-spec model as they depreciate down to the level of less luxurious examples.

Buyer beware: Many used 5s come from fleets so can be a bit bashed around on the inside.

2: 1 Series

Not the biggest hatch but one of the best to drive and not that expensive to run. Diesels will be fair bit pricier than the 118i petrol, however. Even though diesel resale value will be higher, it will take a while to get your initial extra investment back through lower fuel bills.

Buyer beware: Electrics are a weak area.

1: 3 Series

This is BMW’s top-seller for more than one reason. Petrols are worth considering as they're a lot more affordable than diesels and not that much heavier on fuel. Automatic Threes beat manuals. As with the Five, look for high spec cars.

Buyer beware: Check the cabin for abuse, possibly signifying a hard life on a fleet.