Highlights

In current ownership for eight years, maintained by a BMW Master Technician
Engine fully rebuilt, including reconditioned cylinder head
Converted from automatic to five-speed manual gearbox
Braking system, suspension and fuel system all renewed
Sparingly used and garaged since mechanical overhaul
Good history file including original handbook pack, service book, and invoices
Advisory-free MOT

The Appeal

The four-door E30 316i offers an accessible and practical route into one of BMW's most celebrated chassis, combining the rewarding driving dynamics of the E30 platform with the economy and low running costs of its four-cylinder engine. This 1989 example, finished in the desirable Dolphin Grey Metallic with a grey leather interior, has been in the hands of its current owner, a BMW Master Technician, since 2018, and has benefited from his considerable expertise throughout.

During his ownership, the engine was removed and comprehensively rebuilt, the car was converted from its factory automatic gearbox to a five-speed manual, and the rear subframe was stripped and powder-coated before being refitted with uprated bushes. The braking system was renewed throughout, the entire fuel system was reconditioned, and the rear differential was replaced with a reconditioned BMW Z3 1.9 unit. New Bilstein shock absorbers and H&R springs were also fitted all round.

Since this work was completed, the car has seen very limited use, such as the occasional classic car meet or trip to the Goodwood Revival, and has been kept garaged and regularly polished. The vendor states the car presents very well and drives beautifully. It comes with its original handbook pack, service schedule book, many invoices, previous MOTs, the original tool kit, glove box torch, and a hold-all of car care products.

Key Information

Mileage: 115,354 miles
Country of registration: United Kingdom
MOT status: valid until 1st July 2026
Technical specs: 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol, five-speed manual (converted from automatic)
Paperwork: Original handbook pack, service schedule book, invoices, and previous MOTs

The Detail

Engine removed and fully rebuilt with new piston rings, shells, and main bearings
Cylinder head stripped and reconditioned
New cam belt fitted
Converted from automatic to five-speed manual using BMW new and reconditioned parts
New upgraded Bosch fuel injectors with a four-point spray pattern fitted
Entire fuel system reconditioned with braided fuel lines, A.N. fittings, and high-flow fuel filter
Rear subframe removed, stripped, powder coated, and refitted with Powerflex Heritage bushes all round
Rear differential replaced with a reconditioned BMW Z3 1.9 unit
All-round new Bilstein shock absorbers and H&R springs fitted, lowering the car by 40mm
Front and rear cross-brace struts fitted
All-round braided brake lines, new brake discs, pads, and rear drums fitted
15-inch BMW cross-spoke alloys professionally refurbished and fitted with new Falken tyres
Original BMW deep front spoiler and bootlid lip spoiler fitted
Lower bumper sections, sills, and door mirrors colour-coded
Factory manual tilt and slide sunroof
Grey leather interior, which the vendor describes as being in lovely condition
Sparingly driven and kept garaged since mechanical work was completed
Comes with original tool kit, glove box torch, and car care products
Just five former registered keepers
No MOT advisories

BEFORE YOU BUY

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