Highlights

Brilliantrot over Silver Überkaro
Advised previous full restoration
15-inch “VRW Classic' retro-style alloy wheels
Extensive BMW service history
Valid, advisory-free MOT until Oct 2027

The Appeal

The BMW E30 has become a modern classic that two generations agree on: those who wanted one when it was new, and those who weren’t yet born when it launched. The 318is gave its compact, rear-wheel-drive recipe a sportier edge.

This 1990 example is finished in Brilliant Red (Brilliantrot) over Silver Überkaro and rides on 15-inch VRW Classic retro-style alloys. Inside, the OEM switchgear and instrument cluster are still in place, and the original tools are still in their cubby under the boot lid.

There’s genuine effort behind this one. The underside is said to have been sandblasted, with the suspension parts powder-coated and then undersealed, while the engine is reported to be “running great” and to start “on the spot without problems”. An aftermarket suede racing steering wheel adds a little extra attitude, and an E30 sport steering wheel is included in the sale.

Brilliant Red has never looked out of place on an E30, and the paintwork here presents exceptionally well. With retro alloys that suit the shape, this is a 318is that wears its age remarkably well, and it’s no wonder the E30 continues winning over the hearts of fans, new and old.

Key Information

Mileage: 127,270miles (indicated)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
First registration: 21st August 1990
Technical inspection status: Valid, advisory-free MOT until Oct 2027
Technical specs: 1,796cc M42 16v inline-four, 5-speed Getrag 240 manual transmission
Paperwork: Extensive BMW service history, Owner’s handbook, service booklet, 2 keys, last V5C issued in October 2017

The Detail

We’re advised of a “full restoration in 2017/18, including respray in original colour and underseal”Brilliant Red (Brilliantrot) over Silver Überkaro interior
The paintwork presents exceptionally well with some light usage-related wear visible, including minor stone chipping on the front of the car and the front splitter
Glasses, windows and trim plastics appear smart throughout
Sunroof proves to be functioning
15-inch “VRW Classic' retro-style alloy wheels
Engine bay is tidy and as expected
The seller mentions the underside has been sandblasted, suspension parts powder-coated, and then undersealed
The Silver Überkaro seats are neat, though some marks show quite prominently on the grey upholstery of the driver’s seat, along with the fabric thinning on the driver’s seat bolster
The doorcards are displaying areas of wear and discolouration
Carpets and floor mats appear to be intact
OEM switchgear and instrument cluster
Aftermarket suede racing steering wheel
E30 sport steering wheel included in sale
There is a crack in the dashboard’s notorious weak spot
Sony XS-FB Series speaker in the rear parcel shelf
Tools can be found in the original cubby under the boot lid
BBS cross-spoke spare wheel located in the boot
The existing keeper adds, “The engine is running great, clutch was replaced, the car starts on the spot without problems, no issues driving, no knocks from suspension”
A note from the vendor: “The car is in great condition; I would rate it Grade 2; Grade 1 being the best condition, Grade 5 being the worst”

BEFORE YOU BUY

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