Body work structure -RUST! That is the most important thing i think when looking for an e30. Look everywhere, under the bonnet , behind the lights, try and jack the thing up as well.
Do the usual engine checks/ overheating oil etc etc
320i touring 160k buying advice anyone??
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Gwynleym10
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320Touring
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As my man of the m10 says, check rear arches closely for rust!
also open up the "cubbyholes" in the boot and check for water in there (often leaks in via the rear lights or tailgate)
squeeks from the rear tailgate are fairly common and can be easily cured by shortening the catch in the tailgate (13mm spanner)
The Rear window wipers can be rather "interesting" in their operation-again not a huge fault but a fiddly fix.
Also check the tops of the rear doors for rust (as they're different from the 4door saloon ones, and harder to get!)
Mechanically, make sure the m20 is nice and quiet (mild ticking from injectors is normal), diff should be nice and silent (probably a 4.10/4.27 "small case" diff)
Be aware of any "clunks" on pulloff possibly indicating worn suspension bushes at the rear (Ԛ£170 to replace)
If its in good order with tax and a ticket and plenty of reciepts etc i'd be looking to pay a max of Ԛ£650-750 for it.
(for comparison purposes, my 320itouring with 87k on it, and full BMW sh cost me Ԛ£300 with no tax or ticket) so add on Ԛ£170 for bushes and Ԛ£350 for all new brakes and tax, et voila Ԛ£750 is your bag
good luck
also open up the "cubbyholes" in the boot and check for water in there (often leaks in via the rear lights or tailgate)
squeeks from the rear tailgate are fairly common and can be easily cured by shortening the catch in the tailgate (13mm spanner)
The Rear window wipers can be rather "interesting" in their operation-again not a huge fault but a fiddly fix.
Also check the tops of the rear doors for rust (as they're different from the 4door saloon ones, and harder to get!)
Mechanically, make sure the m20 is nice and quiet (mild ticking from injectors is normal), diff should be nice and silent (probably a 4.10/4.27 "small case" diff)
Be aware of any "clunks" on pulloff possibly indicating worn suspension bushes at the rear (Ԛ£170 to replace)
If its in good order with tax and a ticket and plenty of reciepts etc i'd be looking to pay a max of Ԛ£650-750 for it.
(for comparison purposes, my 320itouring with 87k on it, and full BMW sh cost me Ԛ£300 with no tax or ticket) so add on Ԛ£170 for bushes and Ԛ£350 for all new brakes and tax, et voila Ԛ£750 is your bag
good luck
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