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1988 BMW 325i SE (E30)

Sold Price

£9,858

  • Mileage~141,000
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine2.5L
  • LocationGloucester

SOLD

1988 BMW 325i SE (E30)

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Introduction

Jacob Boodrie
Professional Consigner

The Swiss Army Knife of classic motoring - track days, shows, or the daily commute; the E30 manages to do it all.

The second generation of the 3 series, known as the E30 launched in 1982 and remained in production until 1994. The model range included various body types, the most stylish being the 2 door coupe as presented here. This car is also fitted with the desirable and sought-after 2.5L M20 straight-six powertrain which offers the driver a mighty 171BHP to tap into.

In 1987, a major update came to the E30 range, external styling changes included redesigned rear lights, front bumper, and a reduction of chrome trim, along with extended rust protection. One feature that increased the interior cabin space was the suspension set-up: front MacPherson Struts and a rear-trailing arm suspension was a compact arrangement that allowed for more cabin and boot space. Automotive press from around the world praised BMW for its handling capabilities.

This example has been meticulously owned by Bev for the last 25 years. Bev is a technical man with a lot of experience in mechanics and engineering. He knows this car inside out and has restored and maintained the car extensively over his ownership, we know you won't be disappointed with this one.

This auction listing was written from information supplied by Jacob after meeting Bev the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

I've had my fun in this BMW, I've driven around most of Europe and couldn't think of a better car to do it in.

Bev was a design engineer on various fascinating projects and knows a thing or two about the mechanics behind this E30. He was on the lookout for a sports car to use around the continent on his travels, back in 1996 and since has enjoyed the ownership and maintenance of this 325i SE.

At his local garage, they often let Bev get involved when it comes to carrying out the work. Bev knows the car inside out, however due to age, he is unable to carry out much of the work by himself anymore and so has decide to put the car up for auction. Bev will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have in the comments below.

Bev
Vehicle Owner

Bev saved £1,620* when they
sold their BMW with us.

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Exterior

The E30 has certainly stood the test of time, with those boxy good looks that still look great today.

Wheels and Tyres

Fitted with BMW 14" "Bottle Cap" alloy wheels, they are a classic look on this E30 SE. They look in lovely condition with some minor curbing in places.

The tyres are Continental ContiPremium and dated 2012/2009. All the wheels have a lot of tread left from what we could see.

Please take a look at the details photos and videos for a closer look at the wheels and tyres.

Bodywork

A 2 door coupe, it's arguably the body type most E30 enthusiasts looks for. The bodywork on this 3 Series looks to be in very good condition, there appears to be no obvious signs of major corrosion or dents to the panels, and the panel gap/shut-lines all look great across the car.

Some years ago Bev fitted two new front wings, and had all four repainted. Since then, with time passing we did notice some very minor areas of corrosion seeping around the front arch edges. We have taken hi-resolution images and videos of the car for you to assess the condition of the bodywork for yourselves.

Paint

Finished in the popular BMW colour of Lachs Silver Metallic, it still stands out today and really suits the E30's shape.

The paint has a smooth finish, even in colour, and deep in lustre. Having been dry-stored in a garage throughout Bev's ownership, the paint has been preserved to a very high standard. Although Bev reports he does not spend time polishing the car, rather he prefers to get out on the open road with it, and so there is some road rash visible to the front of the car.

Again, please take time to review all the images and videos showing the paint from different angles and reflections, to assess the condition for yourselves.

Glass and Trim

The glass looks in great condition throughout, the rubber seals appear tight around the windows and have not perished.

The chrome work on this car too looks to be in very good shape along with the black bumpers which have maintained their colour over the years.

Interior

One timewarp, hardwearing and spacious cabin, you've got to love that ergonomic analogue feel.

Seats and Carpets

Fitted with (0269) Anthracite cloth interior, the interior is presented in excellent condition for its mileage. Bev has done a great job at keeping the exterior clean and free from any major wear.

The door cards and carpets look to be in good condition too, please take a detailed look at these items in the media pack below.

The original light blue carpets are still present, with the option of a newer black set as well.

Dashboard

The black dash looks in great condition and will be a familiar sight to any previous BMW owner, paired with the large black dials, the bold interior adds to the charm of this car.

The only thing to note is the black tape covering the brake pad wear sensor. Bev, mentions this is a known electrical fault on E30's. He reports the brake pads to have plenty of life left in them.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Fitted with an original BMW sporty four-spoke steering wheel, which makes maneuvering the 325i very easy. A BMW gearstick is present and both the wheel and stick are present in great condition.

Mechanics

The desirable 2.5L straight-six M20 is tucked under the bonnet, ready and raring to go.

Engine and Gearbox

The E30 has been a choice for those with a more enthusiastic driving styling, and the M20 straight-six 2.5L can cater for all their needs. The car became hugely popular when it comes to motorsports, mainly due to the rear-wheel-drive/front-engine layout.

Once Bev turned the key, the M20 sprung into life and the car quickly came up to temperature settling down to a smooth idle shortly after, with no unwanted noises. Around one year ago, Bev had the engine carbon cleaned, he mentioned noticing an instant improvement to the performance.

Please take a look at the cold start and the on-the-road footage and commentary by Bev in the mechanical video.

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension offers a firm ride to hold the car when pushed hard around corners, but soft enough to iron out the bumps on long cruises.

The suspension and brakes throughout Bev's ownership have always received the attention they've required. He reports the car offers smooth rides for long distances and holds its own in the corners, with prompt stopping power.

The Drive

The ultimate driver's car, offering performance and handling while being extremely practical. Bev has really enjoyed his previous 25 years with the car, having covered some ~65,000 miles in that time. Even now, he's still got the confidence to give the car a quick blast up the rev range.

Electrics and Other

The electrics are said to work as they should. This example does have the addition of a Pioneer head unit and rear speakers.

The front headlight wipers, sunroof, and rear extendable aerial were all operational on our visit - take a look at the mechanical video for clips of these items.

History and Paperwork

Six cylinder E30's are hot property, and this example has been given the preservation and mechanical upkeep it requires, coming from long ownership and just 2 former keepers before that.

Bev has taken a lot of care with this E30, not only enjoying the car but ensuring it stays on the road and the straight six still sings. The car comes with a host of provenance dating back to when it rolled off the production line. The car has always been dry stored in his garage and given regular full services.

The car comes with stacks of paperwork to back up the genuine mileage, along with many clean MOTs. Bev is more than happy to answer any questions you may have in the comments below.

Vehicle specification from the factory:
325i/2 Special Equipment
(203) Lachs Silver Metallic paint
(0269) Anthracite cloth interior
(215) Power-assisted steering
(320) - No model inscription - '325i' badge applied since
(350) Green tinted glass - Windscreen has been replaced since
(410) Front electric windows
(497) Rear central armrest
(551) On-board computer
(326) No rear spoiler - The car is now fitted with a rear spoiler. This was bought and fitted by Bev after he had purchased the car.
(286) Alloy wheels
(401) Electric sliding roof
(415) Rear window blind
(500) Headlight wash-wipe
(812) GB specification

We’ve done all our usual checks; Seller ID, V5C, HPi.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
23.09.2021 MOT 141,353
29.06.2020 MOT 141,300
13.06.2019 MOT 141,246
28.06.2018 MOT 140,986
06.06.2017 MOT 140,766
28.06.2016 MOT 140,587
03.06.2015 MOT 140,054
29.05.2014 MOT 139,458
26.04.2013 MOT 138,865
13.04.2012 MOT 137,885
07.04.2011 MOT 135,435
09.12.2009 MOT 132,190
12.12.2008 MOT 129,962
07.12.2007 MOT 127,522
14.12.2006 MOT 124,153
09.12.2005 MOT 120,621
25.11.1995 MOT 75,796
14.03.1995 Service 64,624
21.01.1994 Service 49,611
02.08.1993 Service 42,755
30.12.1992 Service 25,465
29.08.1991 Service 21,987
22.02.1991 Service 16,655
20.06.1990 Service 10,232
28.04.1989 Service 4,217
22.09.1988 Service 1,038
Key Details
  • Model325i SE (E30)
  • TransmissionManual
  • Reg. Date01.08.1988
  • CC2,494
  • Mileage~141,000
  • HistoryGood
  • ColourLachs Silver Metallic
  • Interior ColourAnthracite
  • Interior TrimCloth/Leather
  • Chassis #2861849
  • Engine #21884360
  • MOTYes. Exp - September 2022
  • MOT ExemptNo
  • Road Tax ExemptNo
  • HPi ClearYes - clear
  • Tyre TreadGood
  • Tyre BrandContinential
  • Tyre Age2009/2012
  • Security SysStandard
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned8 years
  • Key Feature2.5L straight-six







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Ask Questions
Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
wayneob7s
Member
wayneob7s

is this car on consignment ?

Bev.
Guest
Bev.

Car is in auction. Will sell tonight, 2hours 20 minutes time.

RichieRich
Member
RichieRich

Hi Bev,what is the condition of the underneath,battery box and inner wings and when was the cambelt water pump done.Thanks Richard

Bev
Guest
Bev

There is no rust on any of the items you mentioned. I fitted a new water pump in 2007

armensark
Member
armensark

Hi Bev, does it have power steering? I believe it was made standard from 1989 and option pre this, could you kindly confirm if it does?

David Richardson
Guest
David Richardson

Hello Bev, really like your car. I’m looking for one for my twin brother’s retirement present at 66.
Before I bid, as I’m not a mechanic and have to fund any big jobs, would you kindly tell me if there is any planned work I need to budget for in the near future, over and above standard servicing. Thankyou

Bev Minett-Smith
Guest
Bev Minett-Smith

Nothing needs doing until next annual service, they may suggest that the timing belt is renewed next year.

14JAMES89
Member
14JAMES89

Hi,
What sort of towing & how much has the car done?
Thanks

Bev Minett-Smith
Guest
Bev Minett-Smith

Very little. A few trips towing a small 2 berth caravan around England. Approximately 3,000 miles.

asimm
Member
asimm

black tape on the dash near the p symbol

asimm
Member
asimm

Hi why is there black tape on the dash near the p symbol

MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

Vehicle Location

Gloucester

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