1991 BMW E30 320i Bauer Convertible

Highlights

  • Beautifully presented and factory standard E30 
  • Desirable 6cyl 129bhp M20 engine and 5spd manual box 
  • Extensive history file by specialists and main dealers
  • Restoration work in 2018 which included a full respray and 2024 
  • Steering system, exhaust and track rod ends replaced 2024
  • Same keeper since 1995 
  • Long MOT to March 2025 

The Appeal 

The shortage of good examples like this one likely explains why the excellent E30 Bauer convertible has tended to live in the shadow of its equivalent Mercedes-Benz drop tops such as the R107. That’s real shame because, as aficionados known, a well kept 3-Series is a thing of wonder. 
This is such a car, one with the desirable 6cyl 129bhp M20 engine and a manual box. Beyond the entertaining driving experience and decent performance, you get a very well built four seater convertible with the practicality of a decent boot. 
The current keeper has had this car since 1995, expending considerable sums on routine maintenance and ongoing improvement. £3,000 was invested in the structure in 2018 and more recently the steering rack, exhaust system and track rod ends have been renewed alongside further welding. Naturally it has been regularly serviced. 
Presented in stand-out Brilliant Red with a checked cloth sports interior, this is a great example of a car that seems tailormade for summer drives. It comes with the added reassurance of a long MOT. 



The History and Paperwork



  • First registered 4th November 1991 
  • Factory built on 18th September 1991
  • Four registered keepers 
  • Current keeper acquired the car on 1st December 1995 
  • Handbook set and service book 
  • 14 service stamps to 96,602 miles in June 2010 
  • Further servicing work documented in history file invoices shown in photographs 
  • Extensive range of invoices from last 20 years covering routine and preventative maintenance 
  •   £2850 expended on a total respray & welding in June 2018 
  • Battery replaced in March 2024
  • Steering rack, welding, exhaust system and track rod ends replaced in March 2024
  • MOT to 13th March 2025 with 118,623 miles showing and advisories to note 



The Condition

  • Stand-out Brilliant Red paintwork with evidence of ongoing renovation 
  • Bodywork presents well with good arches and sills and tidy panelwork 
  • Full Bauer four seater convertible with black roof in good order with consist colour
  • Roof works correctly but we understand there may be an issue with the rear windows
  • 14in factory alloy wheels with matching spare and good overall condition 
  • Checked cloth interior with sports front seats and front and rear belts 
  • Interior is well kept with good switchgear, door cards and fabrics showing little wear
  • Fitted with Sony period-correct radio cassette system 
  • Factory tool kit complete and appears little used
  • Underside presents well with evidence of preventative welding work since 2019 



The Mechanics 

  • 1,990cc M20 6cyl 129bhp engine 
  • 5spd manual gearbox 
  • Extensive service history documented above and in photos 
  • Recent attention to exhaust, steering rack and track rod ends
  • Some minor advisories to note on recent MOT 
  • No other mechanical or other running issues advised 



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: 
If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies. 
A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details. 
This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only. 
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing. 
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. 

Please see our FAQs here and our Terms & Conditions here

Vehicle specification
  • Year 1991
  • Make BMW
  • Model 3 Series
  • Colour Red
  • Odometer 118,677 Miles
  • Engine size 1990
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Private
  • Town Southend-on-Sea,
  • Location Essex
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
3 bids
  • classic•••• £5,200 29/04/24
  • Jay76 £5,000 25/04/24
  • adil-ab•••• £3,000 25/04/24
Message C&C Auction Team

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