1988 BMW 3 Series E30 320i SE

1988 BMW 3 Series E30 320i SE

  • Right Hand Drive
  • 112,229 Miles
  • Manual, 5 speed
  • Petrol
  • 1990cc
  • 1988
  • E651EHK
  • Blue
  • Private seller
  • GB
    Tunbridge Wells, United Kingdom

Description

This E30-generation BMW 320i SE is a sleek and captivating modern classic coupe, featuring a meticulously documented maintenance history.

Powering this vehicle is a naturally aspirated 2. 0 litre inline-six engine, which produces approximately 127bhp and drives the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox.

This E30-generation BMW 320i SE is a charismatic and engaging modern classic coupe, offered with a very well-documented maintenance history. Presented with an appealing Royal Blue Metallic finish, over tasteful tan leather upholstery, and boasting a peppy straight-six engine coupled to a five-speed manual gearbox, it would make a stylish companion for retro daily driving, weekend cruising, and car show visits alike. This E30-generation 320i SE features a tan leather-trimmed interior with a contrasting black dashboard and transmission tunnel.

It sits on 15-inch cross-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in Falken Ziex tires. The equipment list includes headlamp washers, a heated rear screen, a rear window blind, a three-spoke steering wheel, an electric sunroof, electric windows, an on-board computer, and heater and ventilation controls.

The car is equipped with a Blaupunkt Bremen stereo offering DAB+ radio, Bluetooth connectivity, USB, and auxiliary inputs, while the original Blaupunkt stereo is also included. Additional items provided are tools, a spare wheel, a new front number plate, a jack, the V5C, two sets of original keys, an extra key for the driver’s door, all owner’s manuals in a plastic wallet, the stamped service booklet, tan floor mats, and an A4 binder with comprehensive ownership history, MOT certificates, and maintenance invoices.

Very minor scratches, some touched-up areas of minor rust, a small area of touched-up paint on the top lip of the boot to cover rust, and minor wear on the seats with some scratches.

The rev-counter is not working as it should be at low revs.

The car’s last MOT test was conducted on 18 October 2024 at 111, 996 miles, which resulted in a pass with no advisories.

An all-season outdoor car cover and an indoor cover are also part of the sale.

Cam belt changed in 2022

Sep 2024 - 109, 476 Miles - Alltech Garage Services
Apr 2022 - Weald Service Garage Station Limited
Aug 2021 - 103, 571 Miles - APM BMW Specialist
Jul 2018 - 102, 103 Miles - APM BMW Specialist
Sep 2011 - 92, 099 Miles - Halfords Autocentre
Aug 2010 - 91, 149 Miles - Nationwide Autocentre
Sep 2009 - 90, 412 Miles - Nationwide Autocentre
Sep 2006 - 85, 825 Miles - Cotswold BMW
Sep 2005 - 82, 997 Miles - Cotswold BMW
Sep 2004 - 79, 871 Miles - Cotswold BMW
Sep 2003 - 76, 208 Miles - Cotswold BMW
Sep 2002 - Mileage Obscured - Cotswold BMW
Sep 2001 - 67, 863 Miles - Cotswold BMW
Sep 2000 - Mileage Obscured - Cotswold BMW
Sep 1999 - 59, 869 Miles - Cotswold BMW
Mar 1999 - 54, 582 Miles - Cotswold BMW
Sep 1998 - 52, 230 Miles - Cotswold BMW
Feb 1996 - 40, 000 Miles (Approx) - Cotswold BMW
May 1995 - 40, 433 Miles - Cotswold BMW
Oct 1994 - 33, 675 Miles - Cotswold BMW
Feb 1994 - 27, 206 Miles Cotswold BMW
Mar 1993 - 21, 646 Miles - Sewell BMW
Apr 1992 - 17, 330 Miles - Sewell BMW
Apr 1991 - 14, 375 Miles - BMW
Apr 1990 - 8, 767 Miles - Bates Motors BMW
Apr 1989 - 4, 323 Miles - Bates Motors BMW
Oct 1988 - 1, 564 Miles - Bates Motors BMW
Apr 1988 - PDI - Bates Motors BMW

At the heart of the 320i SE is the silky-smooth M20B20 2. 0L inline-six engine. Sure, it’s not the most powerful in the E30 lineup, but it delivers a wonderfully linear power band and that distinct mechanical BMW soundtrack-refined, but never sterile. It’s the kind of engine that rewards engagement, especially when paired with the crisp 5-speed manual (if you’re lucky enough to have one). The rev-happy nature of this motor makes everyday driving feel special.

There’s a reason the E30 has become a benchmark for driving purity. It’s perfectly balanced, with a near 50/ 50 weight distribution and rear-wheel-drive layout. The steering is unassisted on some models, meaning it’s heavy at low speeds but wonderfully communicative once you're moving. That analog connection to the road is something modern cars often lack.

Close a door. Flick a switch. Press the clutch. Everything in the E30 feels substantial. Back in the late ’80s, BMW engineering was overbuilt in the best way. Materials were solid, plastics were high quality, and things were designed to last. That's why so many E30s are still on the road today. You’ll appreciate this every time you get behind the wheel, this car feels special.

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