E30 Newbie

[Jakee30]

Hi All

My names Jake, I have just got rid of my current car (924) with the intention of buying myself an E30. I'm not allowed more than one hobby car at a time.

I never did any of the work on my 924 (bar very simple bits like changing trims, headlights and the like) but the intention here is to get a decent car and then learn bit by bit.

Not quite sure what model to go for, budget will be 8k give or take a thousand quid. Any reccomendations on which model would be best at that budget? I would like something peppy ish and don't intend to engine swap it or anything but it would be good to have the option to do some minor tweaks. I intend to do just some minor mods which are subtle and don't change the outward appearance.

Cheers, looking forward to getting involved.

Jake

[Cloggy Saint]

I don't think it's possible to say which model is best for 8k. You could buy a nice 316i or a nice 325i, it depends on your needs. Welcome to the zone.

[Jakee30]

Cheers! It will basically be just for me to drive around Yorkshire backroads on the weekend! A friend who had one years ago suggested I go for a 325 or 318is if I can get a non rust covered one. All I'm after is the best drive.

[flybynite]

Yep it is a realistic budget for one of those, 325i has a bit more grunt but is a bit heavier on the front end. The 318is is a light revvy engine and quite a bit of fun.

Back in the day a mate of mine had a 318is and I had my 325i and I got to drive them both back to back quite a bit. From then on I never underestimated having a light engine up front.

A good tight-driving standard 318is is a really nice machine to own and one of the better looking E30s IMHO

[ocde30]

Welcome Jake, which area of Yorkshire are you ? Maybe see if you can get to have a drive/ride in one or two different models before you narrow it down. I think most will agree that the sound condition of the body is the most critical part if you intend to keep it a while. A 316 or 318 could never be described as "peppy ish" but still great fun to own. Good luck with your search.

[Jakee30]

I'm just north of York, the intention is to keep it, work on it and upgrade it indefinitely to be honest! Is there a particular variant that's any easier to work on?

[flybynite]

Is there a particular variant that's any easier to work on?

Not really, they are all about the same, bit less room around a 6cyl engine but still acres of room for most things.

More optional bits it has the more there is to potentially go wrong, but it is all spanner-and-screwdriver-stuff easily diy and lots of info on here to help.

[martauto]

I'm just north of York, the intention is to keep it, work on it and upgrade it indefinitely to be honest! Is there a particular variant that's any easier to work on?

Hi Jake and welcome to the zone !!
Another one from Gods own earth
I would go for the 318is cars. I had a 318ti (e36) a bullet proof engine and looooaaaaads of fun as well

Mart.