Opinions and advice for newbie?

[JohnnyBurns]

Hello guys,
So I don't own a e30 yet, but i am just about to buy one but i have a few questions.
I am probably going to daily drive it, since i don't want it to be just weekend car or just stopped in the parking spot, I know how reliable the car will be will depend on how well the previous owner kept it, so I am thinking in doing straight away a main maintenance soon I buy the car, I want to enjoy the car as a daily and for some track days or just a country side drive.
Now my big problem is, I want a e30 touring and the engine is the problem, at the moment not many to sell 325i, but I am think doing a swap for a m30b35 anyway, i think the hp and torque is enough for the type of car i want, and want to keep the engine in the same range of years to be all classic xD
The question is if I buy a 316i or even 320i will be as easy to do the upgrade i saw is better to start with a 325i but since i am not probably doing the swap myself will really make a big difference?
This will be my first car RWD would it be better as well start with the 316i or 320i to win some practice with RWD ?
And in the UK am I able to find someone to do the swap for me and around what price that will cost me?

[steve_k]

if it's your first RWD car then it could be best to start with a 316i/320i till you get used to the difference in handling.
nothing stops you buying an M30 & giving it a refresh in the mean time.

as for someone to do the conversion? & cost? can't help there i'm afraid.

[rix313]

If you're looking to daily drive it they are very reliable cars as they are. Given their age they are technical enough to be ecconimical but also easy enough to work on in and old school way. if you bought a 325i you'd be best off keeping it that way as they command the most money and will always be desireable. If you go thr touring route you'll at least be gauranteed which ever model you get to at least get the better front suspension and brakes and also rear discs. You won't get either of those with a 2 or 4 door. If you are sure you want to do an engine swap I'd have said a 24v swap would be the way to go for performance and you'd have a more modern (albeit old now as well) engine. I wouldn't saw RWD is some sort of dark art to drive. You can get yourself into just as much trouble in a FWD car with understeer and liftoff oversteer.

[martauto]

Welcome to the zone mate and it`s a great choice to run as a daily if maintained well, and it`s not too difficult .

Mart.

[Gert_8]

The car will be fine - buy the best example you can afford and look out for rot. If you are used to driving a modern car, you will note the steering is not as slick or light...!