Soon to be back in an E30

Post Mon Sep 08, 2014 10:16 am

I've got 4 grand saved and quite fancy another 320.

With that dosh, what would you npeople go for and why? Or would you save a bit more for your perfect choice/more rust free one?

I'm afflicted by the e30 fever and am chuffed to be able to talk about it again (hence the more-or-less pointless topic for discussion).

Post Mon Sep 08, 2014 11:43 am

Any particular reason for a 320i?

If I was going for a standard 6cyl, I'd be looking for a decent, well specced 325i.
Or a decent shell (2dr or touring for me) and build a nice M52 conversion.

Post Mon Sep 08, 2014 12:06 pm

Well, I had a 320i before and I miss it to be honest. The sound it made was amazing and was smooth, almost gave the car a gyrospopic feel at high speeds. Would be disapointed if the 325 didn't give the same feel.

What size M52 is popular to use?

Post Mon Sep 08, 2014 12:19 pm

The 320i is a smoother engine than the 325i, but I don't know if many people could actually tell the difference. To me, the 325i makes more sense in terms of fuel used and performance - 320i = 318i performance + 325i fuel consumption.
I do know what you mean though. I enjoyed pottering around in my old 320i, but I'd only consider a 320i now if it was a good spec and not rusty... and then it would get another 500cc minimum!

The only M52 worth considering is the 2.8.

Post Mon Sep 08, 2014 1:31 pm

ive got a great 2 door well specced 320i and love it. im fortunate enough to have a low miler 325i as well and theyre two different beasts.the 320i when driven with a light foot has a lovely creamy smooth power delivery. the most refined e30 with the standard exhaust.for 90% of occaisions i love my 320, for the tormenting of modern 2.0 litre diesels the more powerful 325 would be the best bet. they both seem to use exactly the same amount of fuel tho

the 2.0 six is an underrated choice though, they didnt sell it for no reason, they produced millions of them because the refined 6 is gem.

Post Mon Sep 08, 2014 1:41 pm

a nice 320i is a beautiful drive, albeit a little thirsty. if it has to be a 320i and smoothness is your objective then do what i did and get a 320i cabby.