1992 BMW (E30) 320i CABRIOLET - 40,111 MILES

This E30-generation 1992 BMW 320i Cabriolet is a genuine low-mileage example of the popular modern classic, which has just come out of 24-year private ownership. Under the front-hinged bonnet is the 2.0-litre M20 inline-six, producing around 123bhp. This drives the rear wheels via the four-speed automatic transmission. The odometer shows just 40,111 miles.

First registered on 31 January 1992, this right-hand drive 320i Cabriolet is registered and ready to drive, and is offered for sale by the trade after being acquired by its most recent private owner, who enjoyed the car for the last 24 years.

Though the car is now nearly 30 years old, its elegant bodywork remains in good order, with no record of accident damage, and with straight panels and flush shut lines. While some welding work was carried out to remove corrosion on the nearside rear seatbelt anchorage point/wheel arch area in March 2019, this was completed to a high standard and is invoiced in the history file.

The Mauritius Blue metallic paintwork was recently resprayed and presents very well, with only slight imperfections from sparing road use since the work was completed. Fitting snugly over its frame, the convertible hood was replaced with a new blue mohair item, supplied and installed by K.Baggs Trimming, Poole, in May 2019. The hood itself is still as-new, though the electric mechanism is reported to work intermittently, and requires some attention to rectify.

This 320i rides on an aftermarket set of 16-inch, five-spoke Compomotive alloy wheels, which are structurally sound but in need of refurbishment due to kerb scratches, flaking and scuffs in the silver finish.

On entering the cabin, you are met by the natural tan leather interior, which is wholly original and provides an attractive contrast with the exterior paintwork. Given the car’s age, the upholstery is now in need of a partial re-trim, particularly on the door cards and tan leather seats, which show general signs of wear and creasing, and tears in the base cushion on the driver’s side.

The matching carpeting and floor mats are also somewhat discoloured, however the main touchpoints such as the three-spoke steering wheel and automatic gear selector have held up well over the years, as have the buttons, switches and other controls. Other than the hood electrics, there are no other reported foibles or faults with the controls, and no warning lights displayed.

The last routine maintenance was in September 2020 at 40,072 miles, with Downton Service Station in Hampshire, completing the work. As well as replacement of the engine oil, oil filter and air filter, this also included the fitting of a full set of new brake discs and pads and replacement of the rear brake pipes and bleed nipples. In addition, the rear exhaust silencer was changed, along with the required clamps and rubber hangers.

Prior to this, the car has been generally maintained and cared for to keep it in good, running order, as detailed in its extensive service history documentation.

This E30’s last MOT test was conducted on 17 September 2020 at 40,072 miles, resulting in a first-time pass without any advisories or defects. The matching 205/50 ZR16 tyres were fitted recently, and the seller reports that they remain as-new.

Accompanying the car is the document wallet, owner’s handbook and stamped service book, plus receipts and invoices for various repairs and maintenance carried out over the years.

Combining engaging dynamics with impressive practicality and refinement for its age, the E30-generation BMW 3-series has rightly earned its status as a modern classic. This 320i Cabriolet benefits from fresh paintwork and a new soft top, and with some cosmetic attention to the interior and a set of original wheels, it could be brought up to a very good standard.

Summary of service history on file:

• 30/01/1992 – Pre-delivery
• 31/07/1992 – 1,572 miles (Running-in)
• 16/06/1993 – 8,096 miles
• 08/11/1993 – 12,412 miles
• 04/02/1994 – 14,168 miles
• 30/09/1994 – 22,203 miles
• 31/01/1995 – 25,763 miles
• 05/09/1995 – 28,357 miles
• 13/10/1997 – 37,847 miles
• 16/06/2000 – 38,832 miles
• 24/09/2020 – 40,072 miles

[No service history on file during the period between 2000 and 2020, but the MOT history evidences the mileage accrual]

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. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.