Description
FOR SALE
JF Classic Cars are delighted to present this highly desirable 1989 BMW E30 318i finished in the elegant and timeless shade of Delphin Grey Metallic with only 11450 miles from new
DESCRIPTION
Introduced in 1982 the BMW E30 marked the arrival of the second generation of the celebrated 3 Series building upon the success of its predecessor with improved refinement, updated styling and further-developed engineering. Produced throughout the 1980s and into the early 1990s the E30 became one of BMW’s defining models, combining compact dimensions with rear-wheel-drive
EXTERNAL
Finished in the highly attractive Delphin Grey Metallic (Paintcode 184) this 1989 BMW E30 318i presents a wonderfully understated yet purposeful appearance, perfectly reflecting the clean disciplined styling for which BMW became renowned during the 1980s. Bodywork front to rear presents beautifully with each panel displaying a deep shine along with the legendary BMW build quality and attention to detail on panel alignment
At the front the unmistakable BMW kidney grille remains the focal point flanked by twin Bosch headlamps which present in unmarked condition. Together these features give the E30 its instantly recognisable frontal appearance. The colour-coded wraparound front and rear bumpers are in very good condition complemented by their black inserts which provide a subtle contrast against the Delphin Grey Metallic bodywork. The electrically operated, colour-coded door mirrors are equally well presented and remain unmarked while the black exterior door handles retain their original contrasting appearance.
The exterior glazing is particularly pleasing with the original BMW glass present throughout. The front and rear window rubbers are also in beautiful condition, contributing to the well-maintained appearance of the car’s exterior. The BMW identification badges remain correctly positioned and present with a fresh, unmarked appearance, complementing the vehicle’s overall presentation without detracting from its original styling.
Further enhancing its period character, the car retains its supplying dealer rear-window sticker and dealer registration plates, details which add an appealing connection to its original point of sale. Overall, this E30 318i presents as a smart and well-kept example of BMW’s much-loved 3 Series, with its attractive Delphin Grey Metallic finish distinctive factory styling and carefully presented exterior combining to create a particularly desirable classic BMW
INTERNAL
The interior of this 1989 BMW E30 318i presents beautifully retaining its original black dashboard and an attractive grey and anthracite upholstery combination that complements the exterior Delphin Grey Metallic paintwork. The cabin reflects the straightforward driver-focused design for which BMW became so well regarded during the 1980s, with clearly arranged controls, excellent visibility and a purposeful yet comfortable environment.
The front and rear seats are upholstered in Grey Anthracite cloth featuring contrasting anthracite bolsters and Wybert chequered-pattern centre panels. The front seats incorporate head restraints and all seating presents in unmarked condition retaining a clean well-kept appearance. The grey interior carpeting is equally impressive remaining unmarked and complemented by sculptured precisely fitting overmats that follow the contours of the footwells. Matching grey leatherette door cards are in impeccable condition accompanied by unmarked door bins, completing a pleasing and consistent interior presentation.
The original black dashboard remains unmarked and retains its familiar E30 layout with every principal control positioned logically within easy reach of the driver. On the passenger side the glovebox sits neatly within the lower dashboard with a square directional heater vent positioned just above. Centrally, two further adjustable heater vents provide ventilation to the cabin while the surrounding control panel houses the rotary clock, hazard warning light switch and heated rear-screen switch.
The Blaupunkt Bremen 5QR46DAB media system is fitted centrally and works as intended, providing a useful entertainment feature within the otherwise period-correct surroundings. An electrically operated aerial complements the installation. Below, the heating controls comprise rotary dials for temperature and fan speed, with slider controls positioned between them to direct the airflow. The arrangement is characteristic of BMW’s practical approach to cabin design, offering straightforward operation without unnecessary complication.
The driver's instrument binnacle remains clear, tidy and free from distracting flaws. The fuel gauge is positioned to the left, alongside the speedometer, which displays a remarkably low indicated mileage of just 11, 450 miles. The tachometer incorporates the current miles-per-gallon information, while the engine temperature gauge is positioned to the right. The warning lights illuminate and extinguish in accordance with the vehicle's operating sequence as expected, and the familiar pull-out headlamp switch is positioned to the right of the instrument cluster.
Ahead of the driver sits the original four-spoke black steering wheel, which remains unmarked and complements the understated appearance of the dashboard. The centre console houses the period ashtray and cigarette lighter, retaining those familiar details of late-1980s motoring. The electrically operated front windows are controlled by push-button switches, while the rear windows retain their manual wind-down operation, a practical combination that reflects the specification of the period. The handbrake is also in unmarked condition, contributing to the well-presented appearance of the centre tunnel.
The driver's door houses the black directional control for the electrically adjustable door mirrors, neatly incorporated into the interior door handle area for convenient adjustment. Overhead, the electrically operated tilt-and-slide sunroof works as it should, offering additional ventilation and the option of an open-air driving experience when conditions permit.
Overall, the interior offers an appealing combination of original BMW design, distinctive period upholstery and carefully presented trim. From the Wybert chequered seat centre panels and anthracite bolsters to the unmarked dashboard, four-spoke steering wheel, door cards and carpeting, the cabin retains the character and understated quality that make the E30 such an enduringly desirable classic. With its thoughtful specification, including electric front windows, an electrically operated sunroof and the period Blaupunkt media system, it provides an inviting environment in which to enjoy the traditional BMW driving experience, complemented by a remarkably low indicated mileage of 11, 450 miles
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Powering this 1989 BMW E30 318i is BMW’s 1. 8-litre M40B18 four-cylinder petrol engine, featuring single overhead camshaft technology and fuel injection. Producing approximately 113 bhp, it offers a pleasing balance of performance and everyday usability, with power delivered progressively throughout the rev range
Out on the road, the engine responds well to the throttle, pulling keenly through the rev range and providing a reassuring level of performance for both town driving and open-road journeys
Power is transmitted through a five-speed manual gearbox, offering a well-spaced selection of ratios for a variety of driving conditions. The additional fifth gear is particularly useful when driving at higher speeds
The rear-wheel-drive layout completes the traditional BMW driving experience, Overall, this 318i delivers an appealing combination of dependable four-cylinder performance, manual transmission involvement and classic BMW character, making it an enjoyable example of this increasingly appreciated generation of the 3 Series
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
This 1989 BMW E30 318i sits on the distinctive 14-inch four-stud BMW Bottletop alloy wheels, a classic design that complements the car’s purposeful styling and period-correct appearance. The alloy wheels present in unmarked condition along with being shod with 195/ 65 R14 tyres on each corner
The braking system follows a conventional and proven layout, with disc brakes and calipers fitted to the front wheels complemented by drum brakes at the rear.
Overall, the combination of unmarked Bottletop alloy wheels, correctly sized 195/ 65 R14 tyres and the original-style front disc and rear drum braking arrangement maintains the car’s authentic period character while providing a practical and well-balanced specification for classic motoring
HISTORY
First registered on the 21st February 1989 by leading Oxford BMW dealership Cronk Limited, With only ever having two former keepers and super low milesage this rearly is one special BMW 318i
Complete with original BMW dealer pack housing historic BMW invoices and MOT certificates
Original tool kit remains in the boot along with original tow eye and jack, That bemotes a well cared for example
Quite clearly this has been one cherished BMW 318i from the very get go and been very spareingly used but also thoughtfully maintained and cared for
Simply get in, turn the key and enjoy, Retro with practicallity what more can you ask for?.
HPi Clear / V5 Present / MOT 2027
