The BMW E36 generation of 3-Series had been on sale for three years before the factory-finished convertible version arrived, replacing the beautiful but long-in-the-tooth E30 cabriolet.
Much like its predecessor, the E36 ragtop was a handsome-looking car and was offered in a variety of guises and engine sizes, from the entry level 318 up to the flagship 328 with its 2.8 litre straight-six.
The 328 (other than the M3) is the most sought-after variant thanks to its impressive 190bhp power delivery and it's exceptional smoothness.
This example, while not perfect, is a 328 SE with the best engine and a great specification. As a rolling and road-legal project it's perfect for further improvement.JcAnSftRP5gASvAlj3yLPCjwOMeaiNV9M8rZ4thZ.jpeg1.39 MB
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Original book pack
Recent invoices for over £2,000
Service book stamped to 108,000
MOT until March 2023
The vendor acquired the E36 earlier this year and since buying it has spent over £2000 on parts to improve it. These include new springs, new brakes and a pair of new front wings, so most of the hard work has already been done.
The car comes with its original book pack and a service booklet stamped up to 108,000 miles, while it's also comes with an MOT certificates valid until March 2023.G9XkY0Oz6n7adF4iouGUTywwHRwX59Mvdz3hJ4bk.jpeg563.97 KB
THE INTERIOR
Black leather
Working electric roof
Good seat and carpets
Unmarked arm rest
Inside, the 328i is in generally good order with very tidy black leather seats and smart grey carpets along with neat M Sport overmats.
The electric roof opens and closes as it should, as do three of the four windows - the near side front one will require a new regulator.
Morea Green Metallic is one of the more unusual BMW colours and it suits the E36 body style. Much more commonly seen in the saloon models, it's a very rare choice for a convertible but also rather suits it.
The body is generally straight and solid but with one or two issues that need sorting out, the most obvious of which are a series of dents on the near side door which may be possible to sort out with a paintless repair, but may also require the attentions of a body shop if you're fussy.
Under the bonnet the E36 comes with BMW's classic 2.8 litre straight six - a well-loved and highly sought-after power plant that delivers exceptional smoothness and plenty of low-down torque. In the E36 body, it's also a pretty lively performer.
it starts well and runs smoothly with no signs of excessive smoke or any leaks or rattles. The vendor reports that the car drives well with no known mechanical issues.eAUEtE358gZBv3tBNyy4dTTbKicBouu6d477CDiW.jpeg971.91 KB
SUMMARY
This isn't a perfect E36 nor does it pretend to be, but it's an extremely solid one with the best engine and finished an unusual colour scheme.
With a long MOT and no known mechanical issues, it's perfectly usable as it is – a modern classic that can be gradually improved as you go along, sorting out its minor cosmetic issues while enjoying stylish wind-in-the-hair transport.
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