1990 BMW 325i Convertible (E30) |

Sold

1990 BMW 325i Convertible (E30)

This vehicle has now been sold - click ‘Register Similar’ below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

Sold Price

£15,212

Mileage~139,973
TransmissionManual
Engine2.5L
LocationEly

SOLD

1990 BMW 325i Convertible (E30)

I WANT ONE

Introduction

Richard Gormley

Automotive Writer & Photographer

The enthusiast’s choice - the E30 325i is engaging, beautifully engineered and iconic.

The 3 Series is BMW’s most popular range ever and in the 325i the company managed to fuse style, beauty and poise with a sense of purpose. Initially introduced as the E21 in 1975 the 3 Series succeeded the popular and iconic 02 series. Not an easy act to follow but BMW got the formula right. Coming to market in 1982 the E30 proved very popular with the public and buyers couldn’t get enough. The design was new, innovative, and purposeful while staying loyal to BMW heritage.

This stunning "Diamond Black Metallic" 325i is a lovely example from the marque, and comes to market from ~2 year ownership. A pre facelift, chrome bumper model with only 3 former keepers, it’s highly original, in great condition and comes with extensive history. The beautiful natural leather trim is in superb condition along with the largely unmarked dashboard. The private plate, H1 HSA, has been with the car since new helping to make this a truly special example of this iconic convertible. Impeccably maintained by it’s 3 owners this is a modern classic that drives exactly as it should, looks great and is ready to enjoy.

This listing was written from information supplied by Richard after meeting Dan the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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.

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

It looks great, drives fantastically and has been a real pleasure to own – I shall this miss this BMW.

Dan loves BMW’s and when he bought this 325i he was absolutely determined to get the right one. He tells us “I did a lot of research to get this specification and I haven’t been disappointed. These cars are rarely seen now, and it always brings a smile to people’s faces”. He goes on to say “The 2.5 litre, straight six is so smooth and, linked to the manual gearbox, it’s just such fantastic fun to drive. It looks lovely too with the black metallic paintwork and natural leather trim - the perfect combination in my view”.

The car has been well looked after in Dan’s ownership and no expense has been spared. He certainly has mixed feelings about parting with it. “This is very reluctant sale and I’ll be heartbroken to see the car go. However, I would like to invest some funds to expand my business so I hope the BMW can go so someone who loves and enjoys it as much as I have”. Dan would be happy to answer any questions about his car in the comments section below.

Dan

Vehicle Owner

Dan saved £2,700* when they
sold their BMW with us.

SELLING MADE EASY

We'll take the photos & create the listing.
We'll market it to our 62K buyers & online.
You'll keep your car until it's paid for.

PEACE OF MIND FOR BUYERS

They can fully review our cars online.
They can buy on our trusted platform.
They're able to buy without leaving home.

LEARN MORE

EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

Classic, understated BMW styling and iconic lines combined with stunning Diamond Black metallic paintwork

Wheels and Tyres

The 15” Cross Spoke alloy wheels and BMW centre caps appear in great condition with just a few age-related marks. The wheels are wearing Mohawk 205/55/R15 tyres which Dan confirms have been replaced in his ownership. These appear in sound condition with good tread remaining and we could see no cracks or splits.

Bodywork

The car looks superb. It stands straight and we could see no evidence of accident damage or panel distortion. Shut lines look good and the boot, bonnet and both doors open and close with reassuring precision. Exactly what you would expect from BMW engineering. The manual hood opens and closes properly and overall looks in very good shape.

We noted some minor corrosion on the offside front wheel arch, a repair at the bottom left corner of the passenger door as well as some more significant corrosion on the bottom of the nearside door. Dan has been quoted £250 from a body shop for the repair to the bottom of the door. We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The "Diamond Black Metallic" (181) paint looks in great shape, particularly given this car is 33 years old. The finish is even and consistent with a deep, overall shine. There are a few scratches, dinks and age-related marks as would be expected but, overall, the paint presents really well.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The graduated, tinted windscreen and the side windows look clear without any cracks, chips, or significant scratching.

Lights, mirrors, and lenses also look good, and Dan advises that brand new rear lights, a new rear plastic screen and a new, chrome windscreen surround have been fitted during his ownership. Dan felt the rear lights were looking a little tired and recently replaced them with new, genuine BMW, units at a cost of around £500. Receipts for this work will be provided.

VIEW ALL

INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Stylish combination of luxury and functionality – BMW ergonomics at their best.

Seats and Carpets

The natural leather, heated front seats appear in excellent condition with very little wear other than a small tear to the rear of the driver’s seat.

Dan tells us the drivers seat bolster, a vulnerable area in most cars, has been fully restored as pictured. The tan carpets are amazingly clean for a car of this age and the rear seats appear hardly used. Door cards also present very well.

Dashboard

We could see no cracks in the dashboard, dials and gauges all appear clear and switchgear looks undamaged and in very good condition.

Please take the time to look at the hi resolution images and video of the interior so that you can assess the condition for yourself.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The 3 spoke, BMW branded, optional sports steering wheel looks in great condition as does the gearstick and centre console. Overall, the interior belies the cars 33 years. Take a look through the pictures and videos to gauge condition for yourself.

VIEW ALL

'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

The slick Getrag 260 gearbox transfers power to the rear wheels from the legendary M20, fuel injected straight six to deliver a highly rewarding driving experience.

Engine and Gearbox

The 2.5 litre straight six M20 delivers ~170BHP resulting in a top end of 135 MPH and 0 to 60 in just over 8 seconds, making this beautiful roadster a serious performer.

The engine bay appeared clean, and we could see no sign of leaks. On our “cold start”, the car fired up easily and settled down to a steady, even, idle while emissions appeared clear. The mechanics on this car have been well looked after along with everything else.

Dan confirms that all drive belts, clutch slave cylinder, exhaust back box, fuel pump, filter & pressure regulator and distributor have all been replaced recently. In addition, the car has benefitted from a new battery, spark plugs and intake hoses.

Suspension and Brakes

Equipped with, factory fitted, M Technic sports suspension you can expect this 325i to display the handling for that has made the 325i a favourite with enthusiasts. With vented discs up front and solid discs at the rear you can be assured this car will stop as well as it goes.

The Drive

On our short test drive with Dan the car was compliant and planted. There were no untoward knocks, squeaks, or rattles and the straight six pulled beautifully. The drive was quiet, reassuring and composed with the hood both up and down.

Changes through the 5-speed gearbox were smooth and the car pulled up firmly and evenly when required. Everything you’d expect from a BMW really! Check out the On the Road video to share in our experience.

Electrics and Other

With heated seats, washer jets, mirrors and locks, electric mirrors, and windows this car offers a great specification. The original Pioneer audio head unit is available with the car although a contemporary CD and MP3 player and upgraded speakers have been fitted.

Dan tells us that the previous owner removed the BMW factory alarm system as the system proved problematic, and the somewhat unsightly deadlock holes in the doors have been filled. Otherwise, we are assured that everything works exactly as it should.

VIEW ALL

History and Paperwork

A great opportunity own a ready to go example of this highly original 325i convertible – guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

This well looked after 325i offers engaging and rewarding driving and, being a BMW, is beautifully engineered – a winning combination. Highly original cars like this are becoming increasingly sought after. This example comes with great history including receipts covering work carried out by all 3 owners, the original service book, owner’s manual, and sales brochure. The original BMW toolkit and glovebox torch are also present.

Also included is the private registration H1 HSA which, we understand, has been independently valued at £,1750. This has been with the car since new and is therefore a key part of its heritage.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a HPi check on the vehicle.

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
22.03.2023	MOT	139,652
30.03.2022	MOT	137,405
21.05.2021	SERVICE
31.03.2021	MOT	137,162
19.10.2011	MOT	136,180
26.10.2010	MOT	135,973
02.11.2009	SERVICE	135,606
28.10.2009	MOT	135,273
13.11.2008	SERVICE	134,050
04.11.2008	MOT	134,930
06.11.2007	SERVICE	133,888
05.11.2007	MOT	133,879
06.11.2006	MOT	132,083
15.05.2003	SERVICE	115,726
22.07.2002	SERVICE	111,963
29.08.2001	SERVICE	105,645
26.10.1999	SERVICE
15.04.1998	SERVICE	78,186
22.10.1996	SERVICE	66,524
22,07,1993	SERVICE	30,072

VIEW ALL

Key Details

Model325i (E30)
TransmissionManual
Reg. Date01.08.1990
CC~2,494
Mileage~139,973
HistoryGood
ColourDiamond Black Metallic
Interior ColourNatural
Interior TrimLeather
Chassis #WBABB120X0EB95968
Engine #21784845
Last Service21.05.2021
RestoredNo
MOTValid to 30.03.2024
MOT ExemptNo
Road Tax ExemptNo
HPi ClearYes
Former Keepers3
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned~2 years
Key FeatureCondition and spec
Auction ID1396

VIEW ALL

All Images

All Videos

Vehicle Sold

Register your interest for similar cars.

This vehicle has now been sold - click 'I Want One' below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

I WANT ONE

Ask Questions

Seller : NDan Sale Date 15.06.2023

Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.

Admin

Adam - Trade Classics

*RESERVE MET* Car is now on sale. Good luck.

Member

nickmoore

Change the end time I will never use this site again I will leave you a good review

Admin

Adam - Trade Classics

Hey Nick – if you bid in the last minute the timer gets extended by 1 min. So to avoid sniping. Cheers Adam

Member

nickmoore

2 mins

Admin

Adam - Trade Classics

yes

Member

Maksut

Good morning. In the mot history of the car it says there is an oil leak but not excessive. You have described the car as having no leaks. Has this issue been rectified. Thanks

Author

NDan

Good morning. At time of mot there was a small leak from clutch slave cylinder. Car had been sitting in garage all winter. Both the clutch master and slave cylinders have subsequently been replaced with new. Receipts will all be provided in documents. If you wish to come and see the car I am in Ely, Cambridgeshire. Regards. Dan

Member

Maksut

Thanks for the information

Member

nickmoore

Hi Dan I know the last owner John and I would like to buy the car

Author

NDan

Hi, how is John? I assume you know the car already then. The auction ends tomorrow, if you wanted to view before bidding I am in Ely (Cambridgeshire)

Admin

Kulraj Salh

Hi nickmoore,

Do get involved in the bidding to ensure you win and buy the car :).

Best,

Kulraj – Trade Classics

Member

nickmoore

Does it come with the number plate

Author

NDan

Yes the number plate is included in the auction . The number plate registration has been on the car for 33 years since new and forms part of its heritage

Member

bond

Does the car have an Mot thanks

Member

bond

Has the car a current Mot thanks

Author

NDan

Has MOT until March 2024, please see details of all mot in listing. Thanks

Member

bond

Many thanks

MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

Vehicle Location

Ely, Cambridgeshire

Delivery Calculator

Thank You

Form Submitted

Your request has been submitted successfully and we'll keep you updated.