I was thinking of buying a BMW E30 as my first car, so this video came out at a perfect time Thank you for giving me extra reasons to get one of these beauties!
I always wanted an E30 and then one day I was offered one (a 91 318is) for free. From my own personal experience and from what I've seen online, do not buy an E30 if you cannot do your own work. At this age, most examples will have a handful of little issues, mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic. The good news is that everything is pretty much an easy fix for a seasoned DIY auto mechanic. These are actually very easy cars to work on, ones that betray the cursed stereotypes of German engineering. Because of their popularity, there is a huge market of aftermarket parts and inexpensive, functional replacements. It may require some work here and there, but it really is the most inexpensive BMW to keep on the road. And when you drive the E30 you will be glad that you did.. The car oozes classic BMW styling, and is a joy to drive. It weighs nothing, and is planted to the road like no other car of its era. It handles hard turns and twisting roads like a go kart, and even stops on a dime. Shifting the little high spun M42 engine all throughout the gears is nothing but pure fun. There is just nothing else quite like the E30, not even any other BMW of its era.
Bought my E30 from Bridgegate Derby in 1989. Still got it today 1 owner 325i mtech, lache silver with over 3 hundred thousand on the clock. Chick's love it. 😅
Back in 2010, I got lucky and found a low miles (128k) 1990 325is e30. Spent some money tuning it up and did a 5speed swap. I love driving that car more than my newer bmws.