1990 BMW (E30) 325i SPORT

This 1990 BMW 325i Sport is a highly original and useable example of the brand’s second-generation 3 Series. Under the front-hinged bonnet is a smooth 2.5-litre ‘M20’ straight-six engine producing around 168bhp, allied to a five-speed manual gearbox. The odometer reads 142,115 miles.

First registered on 21 February 1990, this elegant executive car is an original UK-market model which left the factory with the Sport kit applied, which included multi-spoke BBS wheels, front and rear spoilers and M Technic side skirts. The vendor has owned the car for just over four years, carrying out extensive maintenance when required.

Finished in metallic Dolphin Grey, the 325i presents in fair condition, with minor marks as you would expect from a 30-year old vehicle. The front end is largely free of stone chips, and the light lenses are in good order, with only some chips in the offside front fog light and indicator. The vendor advises that the original front spoiler was replaced as it was stolen, with the new item painted to match. There are also some paint splashes to the bottom of the passenger door, which the vendor understands was due to a tin of paint being accidentally dropped near the car when parked.

While the bodywork appears to be straight and solid, there are small scuffs on the nearside rear bumper and wing, as well as the nearside door lock area and offside door edge. There is a slight crease in the bonnet and the BMW roundels front and rear show fading. The optional sunroof exhibits minor cracks on the nearside.

The BMW has managed to retain its original Sport-specific 15-inch BBS alloy wheels. These are in good condition, with no discolouration and only light kerbing. The M Technic body trims are all present and correct, and give the car a fantastic presence on the road.

The E30’s cabin is an attractive blend of driver-focused conveniences and a sporting aesthetic. The grey cloth upholstered seats are in excellent order, with no frayed stitching or bolster damage present, but there is a minor tear on the driver’s seat. Both the steering wheel and gear knob show signs of use, while there is a small imperfection above the glove compartment.

As a high-specification 325i Sport model, this example features an on-board trip computer in the dashboard, which is in working order. An aftermarket Alpine CD player head unit has also been fitted. The vendor advises that the windscreen wipes and ventilation system are somewhat ‘lazy’ in their operation, while the nearside wing mirror adjustment is currently faulty. In addition, the handbrake’s functionality is limited – a typical fault of BMWs from this era.

The E30 was last serviced in July 2019 at 141,638 miles by Speedway Autos Ltd. This was a standard service, with the engine oil and oil filter replaced and with new tyres fitted. In October 2017 at 141,145 miles, the car received attention from Munich Legends, including replacement of the oil sump washer and oil filter. During the vendor’s ownership, the car has been welded to repair corroded parts of the rear structure, and the starter motor has been replaced.

The most recent MOT test was on 29 July 2020 at 142,110 miles, when advisories were noted for damage to the front shock absorber casings. In early July, an MOT test had noted the aforementioned corrosion in the chassis, which was subsequently repaired. The vendor adds that the matching Nexen tyres were changed one year ago, having covered less than 500 miles since being fitted.

This executive express is offered for sale with its original owner’s handbook and wallet, as well as the original BMW boot-mounted tool kit. In addition, a folder of historic service invoices and tax discs will be supplied.

Combining a timeless design with a strong engine and solid maintenance history, this E30-generation BMW 325i Sport would make for an interesting daily driver, or a fun weekend toy, and should prove to be a good value modern classic.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.