Mechanically sound: “Runs and drives and has been dependable”
Long MOT until April 2024
The Appeal
Due to its generation kicking off the M3 tradition, the E30 generation of BMW 3-Series has always garnered attention from motoring enthusiasts. It is a stylish saloon car perfect for any German automotive fan looking for a piece of history.
This 320i certainly benefits from this industry-wide obsession as it was a young motorists first ever car. The family later planned to restore it but through a lack of time, it has been left halfway through its refurbishment process. Now up for sale, it is set to provide another car lover with a project full of potential.
With a lot of rust already dealt with after a £1200 welding job and a new fuel tank fitted, much of the larger jobs are already complete. This car may look in poor shape. But with a healthy engine that, according to the current owner “Runs and drives” and with a long MOT until April of next year, it is in fact showing great promise as a future example of the E30 namesake.
History and Paperwork
First registered in 1989
11 owners from new
Odometer reads 150,395 miles
Bought by current owner as their son’s first car
Set to be a family project car
Some work has already been done to the car, but the restoration requires more before completion
Long MOT – Until April 2024
Invoices from previous restoration work done
3- and 5-Series Haynes Manual with the car
V5c included
The Interior
Plastics all look to be in presentable condition, including dashboard top and steering wheel
Electric windows
Aftermarket Sony head unit with Bluetooth functionality
Headlining looks to be clean and secure
Centre console controls all present well
Instrument cluster looks clean
Check lights all turn off after pressing the button – no major electronic issues apparent
Whilst dusty, the carpets seem to be in good condition bar some marking in the rear
Door cards show some scuff marks but nothing shocking
Spare wheel and toolkit present in the boot
Tear in driver’s seat
Sunroof does not open
Loose trim in places
Gear shift knob is reportedly loose
The Exterior
Four-door E30 body shape looks great
Body panels look straight for the most part
Finished in its original Atlantisblau paint
Front and rear light covers show little to no fogging
Thebadges all look to be in good condition
The paintwork features many scuff marks and scratches
Plastic bumpers are showing some discoloration
Set of BBS wheels feature some scuff marks
Matching set of Mohawk M105 tyres
Corrosion to be found in spots around the bodywork – notably around the wheel arches
Some surface corrosion also present underneath
Some welding has been done to the underside, invoice totals £1200
The Mechanics
2-litre straight-six engine, around 130hp
5-speed manual transmission
Engine bay insulation is breaking up on the underside of the bonnet
Otherwise, the engine bay looks to be clean with everything as it should be
Runs and drives as it should
Power steering pump has been replaced
The car is fitted with a new fuel tank
Summary
Reportedly a healthy car mechanically, this 1989 BMW 320i is the perfect opportunity for German saloon car fans to get behind the wheel of an E30-generation 3-Series without breaking the bank. With great promise, under the hard done by shell, the car has potential to climb in value, especially given the trend of good condition E30 values.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
