1992 BMW (E30) 318I CONVERTIBLE

KEY FACTS

• A very smart example of the drop-top modern classic, presented in a particularly rare factory paint colour and in highly original condition throughout.
• Under the bonnet is the 1.8-litre inline-four engine, delivering 113bhp to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox.
• First registered in August 1992, this E30-generation 3 Series is one of only 200 ‘Neon Blue’ Design Edition cars produced.
• The car is fresh from a major service, and its cambelt has been changed in the last 2,000 miles.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• As a Design Edition car, this 318i is finished in the eye-catching hue of Neon Blue metallic over a black cloth interior, punctuated by coordinating blue pinstripes and piping.
• It rides on its original 15-inch BBS alloy wheels with BMW centre caps.
• The factory specification includes four electric windows and electric mirrors, Recaro sports seats, and an M Tech gear knob.
• An immobiliser switch is fitted, as well as a Cobra remote central locking and alarm unit.
• Included in the sale are the original owner’s manual and book pack as well as warranty and registration paperwork, historic MOT test certificates, the original BMW stereo, V5c, toolkit, spare wheel, first aid kit, warning triangle, glovebox torch, and a raft of receipts and maintenance invoices.

CONDITION

• The owner states that the rear bumper shows some slight surface rust, resulting from what could be a minor collision with an object.
• The original Neon Blue metallic paintwork presents very well overall, with a few stone chips to the front bumper and bonnet, and some minor scratching to the fuel cap and driver’s door. There is also a small indentation on the offside front wing where it meets the headlight, and some minor scuffs to the black plastic trim on the front bumper. The BMW bonnet roundel is slightly faded.
• Inside, the black cloth-trimmed cabin is in good condition, with a small hole in the driver’s seat stitching, some slight thinning of the fabric on the front passenger seat bolster, and general signs of use on the leather-wrapped gear knob.
• There are no known mechanical or electrical faults.
• The car’s last MOT test was conducted on 13 November 2020 at 94,150 miles, resulting in a first-time pass with advisories for a slightly damaged, cracked or perishing nearside front tyre, and a non-excessive oil leak.

SERVICE HISTORY

• This 318i’s most recent service was performed by The Test Centre Rochester in November 2020 at 94,150 miles, when the timing belt was changed, as well as the mounts and wipers, door clips, rubbers, brake pads, pad sensors, fan belts, water pump, alternator, thermostat, aerial, front calliper slider kit, and brake fluid. The car was also undersealed.
• Prior to this, the car was serviced in March 2019 at 92,592 miles and in March 2018 at 91,887 miles, including emissions testing.
• During the current keeper’s ownership, the blower motor and resistor pack have been replaced, as well as the front lower wishbone arms, bottom ball joint and lollipop bushes.

Dates and Mileages:

• Nov 2020 – 94,150 miles
• Mar 2019 – 92,592 miles
• Mar 2018 – 91,887 miles
• Sep 2016 – 81,175 miles
• Oct 2009 – 81,151 miles
• Aug 2008 – SORN
• Sep 2006 – SORN
• Oct 2005 – SORN
• Sep 2004 – SORN
• Jun 2003 – 73,645 miles
• Jul 2002 – 73,645 miles
• Apr 2000 – 73,098 miles
• Jun 1997 – 55,842 miles
• Sep 1996 – 49,777 miles
• May 1995 – 39,354 miles
• Mar 1995 – 35,664 miles
• Nov 1994 – 31,667 miles
• Jun 1994 – 24,618 miles
• Nov 1993 – 17,653 miles
• Aug 1993 – 13,995 miles
• May 1993 – 10,584 miles
• Jul 1992 – PDI

SUMMARY

This is a striking example of BMW’s iconic E30-generation convertible cruiser, offered in a highly original and unmodified condition. Benefitting from a recent major service and kept in good running order by its current owner, this elegant yet practical modern classic would make a wonderful companion for warm-weather outings, but could easily be put into service as a charming daily driver.

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.

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