As far as enduring designs go, the BMW E30 3-Series has to be up there among the elite. Stylish and desirable no matter what the body style, the agonisingly pretty E30 is one of the Bavarian firm’s most recognisable icons, as well as an increasing popular choice of classic.
Introduced in 1983 as the replacement for the E21 3-Series, the new model was wider, squarer and perfectly proportioned. It was a triumph of simplicity over excess and a wonderful piece of automotive styling, which has widely (and deservedly) become regarded as one of BMW’s all-time classics.
The difficulty today, though, is finding a good one that hasn’t been excessively modified or has suffered from corrosion, which can blight the E30 series quite badly as they get older.
There are no such problems with this car, though. Owned by just three previous keepers, it saw very little use early in life and has covered 14,000 miles in the hands of the vendor, who has kept it for the past seven years. But an expanding family and the imminent London ULEZ extension means she now requires something a little more modern for daily use.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
UK V5C
MOT June 2024
Three previous owners
Original book pack and documents
Service book stamped 17 times to 76,523 miles – current mileage of 94k and includes invoices for services thereafter
Recent receipt for full cylinder head overhaul
Several old MOT certificates
THE INTERIOR
Grey velour upholstery in amazing overall condition
None of the usual bolster or seat base wear that are commonly seen in E30s
Electric windows
Electric mirrors (RH side not working)
Original toolkit, jack, first aid kit and spare wheel
Very good dash with no evidence of cracking
All dials, gauges and switches work as intended
Manual sunroof – mechanism is said to require “a gentle touch”
Modern Kenwood stereo with CD, aux ad USB input
THE EXTERIOR
Desirable Dolphin Grey
All original paint and panels
Smart lattice-spoke alloys in good overall order with minor kerbing and one centre badge missing
Appears structurally excellent underneath
Stunning -looking car in completely original condition
BMW MTech Stage One side skirts (easily removed if preferred)
Small crease to offside rear wheel arch
Minor scuffs to right-hand panels and wing corner (see photos)
Some scuffs to rear bumper
Completely original and unrestored
THE MECHANICS
1.6-litre straight four
Four-speed auto transmission
Cylinder Head Overhaul at 94,500 miles: New camshaft, rockers, cam belt kit, exhaust valves, head gasket and seals
New radiator and oil cooler fitted recently
Four new tyres in October 2021 at 92,000 miles
Custom exhaust
New brake discs, pads and shoes
According to the vendor, the car drives very well and with no apparent faults or issues
SUMMARY
Genuine, unmodified and unmolested E30s are very rare things these days, especially in two-door format. This one is a wonderfully original example, unrestored and with a good history, backed up by the reassurance of recent mechanical work that should keep it in good working order for years to come. A rare opportunity to acquire a totally genuine car, with low running costs and – unusually for an E30 – an immaculate interior.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
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1989 BMW 316i Auto (E30)
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