As far as enduring designs go, the BMW E30 3-Series has to be up there among the elite. Stylish and desirable no matter what the body style, the agonisingly pretty E30 is one of the Bavarian firm’s most recognisable icons, as well as an increasing popular choice of classic.
Introduced in 1983 as the replacement for the E21 3-Series, the new model was wider, squarer and perfectly proportioned. It was a triumph of simplicity over excess and a wonderful piece of automotive styling, which has widely (and deservedly) become regarded as one of BMW’s all-time classics.
The difficulty today, though, is finding a good one that hasn’t been excessively modified or has suffered from corrosion, which can blight the E30 series quite badly as they get older.
This one, though, is an impressive survivor. It’s a 325SE automatic – the flagship of the E30 range back in 1991 – and is finished in unusual and striking Calypso Red metallic. It’s a fantastic example of a truly iconic classic of its era.
The History and Paperwork
UK V5C
MOT September 2025
Original book pack and documents
Service book stamped 17 times
Several old MOT certificates
Some more recent receipts for repairs and wheel alignment
Original ownership details and supplying dealer information in front of service book
The Condition
Desirable and rare Calypso Red
Resprayed in original colour and looks extremely smart
Smart lattice-spoke BBS alloys in good overall order with minimal kerbing and all four centre caps present
Appears structurally sound underneath
Stunning looking car in completely original condition
BMW MTech Stage One side skirts (easily removed if preferred)
Front spoiler and fog lamps
Small rear boot spoiler
Some corrosion to rear battery tray
Original and unrestored
Grey velour upholstery in good overall condition
Some bolster and seat base wear to driver’s side
Electric windows, however offside rear window does not work
Electric mirrors
Original toolkit, jack, first aid kit and spare wheel
Some small cracks in dashboard
Kenwood radio cassette
Some LCD bleed in clock/trip computer
Smart velour headlining
Sunroof
The Mechanics
2.5-litre straight six
Four-speed auto transmission
Mileage believed genuine however speedometer has recently stopped working
Recent new exhaust system
Said by the vendor to drive very well indeed with no known faults or declared issues
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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