Highlights

Just one former registered keeper from new
Service book containing thirty-four entries supporting the indicated 52,000 miles
Garaged throughout and used only in good weather by its first keeper
Stored in a temperature-controlled environment as part of a collection of German cars for approximately the last three years

The Appeal

The 318iS was amongst the last cars introduced to the E30's lineage, and carried the new M42 engine - which meant for a very sporty little compact that could easily hold its own against the likes of the Golf GTi. Indeed, the car was so charismatic that many continue to label it the 'Baby M3. Less than 2% of total E30 production went to the 318iS, so it's amongst the rarest machines in the family tree, too.

This particular example was first registered and pre-delivery inspected by Paragon BMW in Hull on 14th August 1990. It was owned by one family in Yorkshire from new, who garaged it and used it only in good weather to preserve it. Approximately three years ago, it moved north to Ayrshire to join a bespoke collection of German cars, where it has been stored in a temperature-controlled environment and used sparingly.

Finished in Brilliant Red, it retains its original glass - all etched with the original supplied number - and the vendor describes it as original from front to back, with the sole exceptions of a hand-built stainless steel exhaust system and a CD player in place of the original radio. Recent work includes a water pump change, and it benefits from a fresh MOT valid until August 2027.

It's a very handsome example, and will thrill its lucky new keeper - we'd recommend not letting this classic pass you by.

Key Information

Mileage: 52,000 miles (supported by service book)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
MOT status: valid until August 2027
Technical specs: 1.8-litre M54 straight-four petrol engine, five-speed manual
Paperwork: service book, owner's manual, and several keys provided

The Detail

First registered and pre-delivery inspected by Paragon BMW in Hull on 14th August 1990
Stored in a temperature-controlled environment and used sparingly for approximately the last three years
Recent water pump change carried out
Some fettling underneath in recent years to preserve the car
Finished in Brilliant Red, with the paintwork in fine order
All glass etched with the original supplied number
Plastic rail along the driver's side sill has a slight split, described as not immediately apparent and cheaply remedied
Alloys described as in good condition with matching Yokohama tyres
Exhaust replaced with a hand-built stainless steel system with twin-piped back boxes
The vendor describes the interior as very tidy
Some cracking noted in the wood lamination on the glovebox
Radio replaced with a CD player
Starts first time every time according to the vendor
They further report that the car is very good mechanically with no faults known to them

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.