new e30

[asmith88]

hi im new the the e30 scene and was looking some advice. im not looking to spend more than 2000, does anybody have any opinions on what model would be best to look out for and what i should look out for when viewing cars. cheers.

p.s 2 doors and i am competent enough with cars so would nopt be afraid of a litlle work to get a bargain.

[Jim78]

Probably try and get a decent 318is or 325i - should be okay on that sort of budget. Sure someone with more technical knowledge will give you a rundown on what to look for mechanically.......

[NatDJ]

Rust is the biggest issue now. Keep an eye out for the inner wheel arches being rotten through. Check scuttle panel and sunroof for scabs.
Bushes can be an expensive issue with the E30 so check all of them. Check the oil filler cap for mayo as cracked heads are common and an arm and leg to put right.
E30's are pretty resilient though, so a bight of common sense when looking over a car thoroughly will go a long way.

As Jim said, a 318is or 325i is the way forward. Good luck with the hunt and sure you check the for sale section on here.

[aj_mckay]

For 2k you should be able to pick up a VERY decent 318iS. As for other models I can't help unfortunately as I haven't owned any others!! Good luck on your search and welcome to the Zone - you'll find most if not all of the answers to your E30 related questions here...

[Ilkorin]

I guess another thing to mention is if you're not bothered by the engine or will be interested in an engine swap, there are a lot of relatively new 316i/318i tourings out there in very good condition for not much (1k will get you something practically mint)........they're also pretty well equipped on brakes and interior and practically beg for a 318is engine to be dropped in.......

[Alex]

if your paitent something will come up, i got the IS in my avator thats rust free apart from a tiny bit on lower rear arches that is just starting and i got it for 500 quid with 12month mot + 6 month tax.

[JeRHaM]

for 2k you caqn take away my lachs silver 325 sport. fiarly new exhaust scorpion backbox, recent new head 17'' azev a's black leather black headlining. it'll have 12 months mot tax till end of the month. needs a couple of thingd sorting but nothin major, paints ok but if you wanted it perfect shouldn't need too much work.

cheers rich

[asmith88]

yea i was lookin at the 325 sports, not too worried bout paint, as most people said look out for the rust, id probly end up gettin a decent respray done sometime anyway, i know a cheap guy. just basic mechanical things then, theres no real common things too look out for?

p.s any chance of a few pics of the 325 sport?

[asmith88]

actually i have seen quite a few 318 is now for reasonable prices, any opinions?

[JeRHaM]

theres a couple of pics in the photo gallery, search my user name and have a look.

[GrindCulture]

Go for a Touring! 325i touring would be ideal, if you're wanting more of a project then buy a 316/318 touring (as these came with the longer front struts and rear discs) and drop a 24v lump in there.

[jbh]

for 2k you caqn take away my lachs silver 325 sport.

wish i had 2k the now just looked at the pics nice motor and good price cant see you having it long