E30 buying - what to look for "tips"?

[CairoKolton]

I was talking to a young man looking around my car at a recent car show. He was looking forward to buying an E30. He asked a simple question and got me thinking what answer other Zoners would give.

He asked "Is there a single pointer on the car that would potentially give a clue to it's condition"

When I was looking for mine it was hidden RUST that scared me to death so for me the first thing I looked for is the BMW stock sealant on the front wing join. If it has this and the wing bottom looks good potentially ( not always I agree ) the rust on the car has a good chance of being minimal. Of course a car could have had the most excellent restoration and not have this sealant but for me it was always the starting point.

Anyone have any other single pointers of advice for potential buyers?

[onthames]

One area I'll be looking in the future is the rear offside arch behind the plastic trim where the fuel breather tank is.




I think most e30s for sale that haven't been dry stored their whole life or been in a perfect climate will have areas of rust. Some more obvious than others. I believe all you can do is look over the car as thoroughly as possible with a light and mirror and access the car. As with anything it takes experience I think to he able to spot what may be a dud and what might be a gem. I think it's just best to look in all the classic places but to be honest you should look over every inch of the car in detail - if the owners happy with you looking over it then spend a good 1-2 hours testing everything and looking everywhere for rust. Obviously some areas will be hidden but now e30s are getting more and more valuable it may make sense to ask any owner to take the car for a pre purchase inspection where they will take the wheels off etc.

[martauto]

Welcome to the zone mate , what are you driving then ? Pic`s please !!

Mart.

[BenHar]

Four matching, good quality tyres is a good indicator.

Ben

[E30Derbyshire]

Four matching, good quality tyres is a good indicator.

Ben

Currently looking for another car for my OH as her merc has subframe rot, and I do this. If someone spends money on good quality tyres, they aren’t scrimping on servicing. Simple but true.