1987 BMW (E30) 325iS

When introduced in 1986, the 325iS was a more discreet performance model for those not quite needing the full-blown M3 experience that came shortly before. Fitted with a powerful engine, manual gearbox, limited-slip differential, lowered suspension, and a modest M Technic bodykit; it is believed that only 250 of this first iteration were built in right-hand drive for the UK market. Sold new in 1987, this highly original 325iS came to Australia about five years ago. It is fitted with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre inline-six, mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The odometer shows 84,129 miles.

Finished in its original handsome shade of ‘Lachsilber’, it is believed to remain remarkably original and there is no sign of any prior damage. The panels sit straight with even gaps throughout. Overall, the paint is in fair condition, and shows signs of age and use with stone chips and very light scratches over the body, particularly around the door handles. The original pinstriping is mostly intact, but there are some small sections that have worn off over the years.

There are some minor areas of rust appearing, most notably at the trailing edge of the right rear wheel arch where it meets the rear bumper, and an area at the rear edge of the boot jamb. There is also a handful of small bubbles in the panels and under the passenger-side mirror.

All glazing and lights are in great condition, with no cracks or chips, and with only the high beam lenses showing some fogging. The boot is clean and contains a full-sized matching spare BBS 15-inch alloy wheel and tyre, along with the factory toolkit in the boot lid.

The light and airy cabin has a smart combination of houndstooth fabric, grey cloth, and black vinyl. The seats are in good condition for their age, with some typical wear on the bolsters, while the rear seats present well. The carpeting is also original, and has been protected with floor mats. Standard with the 325iS was a charcoal coloured headlining, which is still in excellent shape, including the inside of the sunroof. The factory-fitted manual sunroof is fully functional, however the interior crank handle has recently developed some reluctance to click into its recess, so hangs a little lower than it should.

All gauges and instruments are in working condition, with no known faults or active warning lights (the brake warning light comes on as a safety measure when the ignition is activated, and before the brake pedal is depressed, hence its appearance in the photos). The electrical systems are in working condition but can sometimes be temperamental, with a random radio/speaker connection being the most common occurrence. All four tyres are in good condition, being around three years old, with each fitted to the original mesh-style BBS 15-inch alloy wheels.

This BMW has been well maintained and regularly serviced, all of which is documented in a detailed record. Included are the original delivery and subsequent importation paperwork, owner’s handbooks and supplementary booklets, as well as previous UK and NSW registration plates as shown in the photographs.

Most recently, a new cam belt and water pump were fitted at its last service in October 2020, with a new battery, various hoses and clips also installed, along with some attention paid to the brakes and clutch. Taking into consideration its age and relatively low mileage, the engine bay is neat and tidy. The engine and exhaust have a throaty note and it starts and idles well.

The BMW 325iS is a lesser-seen modern classic, which blends the poise of the E30 generation 3 Series with brisk performance. It remains an understated and original example, and could be easily brought up to an impressive standard with some cosmetic ‘TLC’. However, this is an eminently usable car as-is, and would make a fun addition to any collection.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.