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Question to ask when buying an e30
Posted: Wed Dec 15, 2010 11:39 am
by brown29
Hi there, as you know am looking for an e30 sport and iv seen one I quite like the look of.
I need to get all my questions right so I have made a list below.
What other qusetions do I need to be asking when buying an e30 sport?
This is what I have so far...
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How many miles has it done on the clock?
Is it a genuine sport that could be confirmed by BMW?
Is there any more work that needs doing to this car?
Is there any signs of rust coming back or in the near future that will need to addressed?
Is there any rust on or under the car / arches / sills /etc
Does the sunroof work?
Is there anything wrong at all with this car?
Re: Question to ask when buying an e30
Posted: Wed Dec 15, 2010 11:44 am
by Ziggy
I'd be asking things like what work had been done recently, when the cambelt next needs doing, what oil they use etc - you'll get a good idea of how well they look after it.

The main thing is rust though - ask them what it looks like under the kit...
I assume you're talking about asking questions on the phone before you go to see it? Be prepared for lies!
Re: Question to ask when buying an e30
Posted: Wed Dec 15, 2010 11:46 am
by pnd
you want proof not answers to questions i.e bills, test drive absence of rust. Sadly there are a lot of liars out there who will say anything to get their hands on the folding.
Re: Question to ask when buying an e30
Posted: Wed Dec 15, 2010 1:46 pm
by brown29
Ziggy wrote:I'd be asking things like what work had been done recently, when the cambelt next needs doing, what oil they use etc - you'll get a good idea of how well they look after it.

The main thing is rust though - ask them what it looks like under the kit...
I assume you're talking about asking questions on the phone before you go to see it? Be prepared for lies!
Yeah mate, these questions will be aksed over the phone.
Problem is the car is in Ireland... but am due to go over there in Jan with work so I thought if I ask all the right questions I can then take alook at it when am over there.
Just as you say... the guy could be telling me anything over the phone...
Re: Question to ask when buying an e30
Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2010 9:21 am
by cecotto_singh
Ask them if they will knock money off the price if you arrive and find nasties, rust or faults. Then take someone who knows about these cars and you will get a nice discount or a nice car! Simples!!!
Re: Question to ask when buying an e30
Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2010 9:27 am
by Morat
If I was after a sport I'd ask for the VIN and get it checked out at BMW before I even set off. It's the only way to be sure that you're getting the real thing.
Re: Question to ask when buying an e30
Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2010 2:42 pm
by brown29
Morat wrote:If I was after a sport I'd ask for the VIN and get it checked out at BMW before I even set off. It's the only way to be sure that you're getting the real thing.
Good call - I will be sure of doing this... Then if it isn't a sport you can be sure there on the blag with the rest of the details too...
Re: Question to ask when buying an e30
Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2010 9:32 pm
by tonybtonyb
you really need to check the sport yourself or take some one with you.Service history all mot's would be nice,last time it was serviced and what else was changed.Check the steering rack for leaks,clutch,gearbox.wheel arches.Also water in the boot, jacking points,make sure everything is working ie lights,wipers.windows and anything else i've forgotten.Watch out there are loads of turkeys out there who just want to make a quick doller on two please make sure it's Not a look alike.Good luck
