BMW 325i Sport (E30)

rabbitinlights

I am in the market for something a bit different and I have pretty much made up my mind that I want an E30 325i, I've seen a few online but I am just wondering what am I letting myself in for? I want an original sport with no or very little mods (No boy racer stuff)

Any one have one or know someone with one? I am just trying to get an idea of what its going to be like for running costs etc. I cycle to work (10min) so it will just be for weekends away, a bit of mid week shopping and maybe the odd track day?

What do you think of them?

S.

Ferris

They're great cars to drive. I've driven one once. The 325i sport has the same engine (M20B25) as standard and its a pretty strong engine. Head gaskets (after high miles) and un-metered air leaks give the most trouble. The suspension set up is different in a sport and it has a LSD. Also the styling is different. Some people say that they have a close ratio gearbox too but the one I drove was an auto.

They're very difficult to get unmolested and well priced, and england is your best bet there. Personally i'd look at spending more and getting an e30 M3 or get a standard 325i and modify it to sport spec. Also bear in mind that you can buy an e36 m3 for less than a 325i sport now.

Running costs with low miles should not be your concern as it will not be significant. Tax and insurance will be larger costs.

green-blood

they do indeed have a close ratio manual

beware VRT is 1650 minimum...very hard pill to swallow

www.e30owners.com is irish based web site withgood forum and support

alpina

Have a read; http://www.unixnerd.demon.co.uk/e30.html

rabbitinlights

Thanks a million those sites are great.

Does anyone know what sort of mileage you could get out of the engine? I've seen a couple of nice ones, but they are 160,000 miles+ (with full BMW service) so Im just wondering what sort of life im looking at?

S.

VWPowered

as much as i like E30's (had a 318i afew years ago) i have to say ive always fancied the 325iX Touring

the bit of extra weight in the rear wake it abit better balanced:D

Ferris

I've seen them with up to 180k, don't know how well they got there tho. Seriously low tech engine tho so they're pretty easy to fix and source.

I'd be more worried about rust, if you're viewing one make sure you check the windscreen surround, the engine bay bulkhead, the rear arches (with a magnet) and the bootlid. Also check any sunroofs for rot, if fitted.

Sound like you should get a mechanic to check out any potential purchase.

Heres one that was on adverts, lots of cash tho:

http://www.adverts.ie/showproduct.php?product=54007&cat=all