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1989 BMW 325i SE (E30)

Sold Price

£9,805

  • Mileage~86,000
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine2.5L
  • LocationTwickenham

SOLD

1989 BMW 325i SE (E30)

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Introduction

Alan Stuart
Professional Consigner

Birth of the ultimate driving machine - track days, classic shows, or the daily commute; this E30 can do it all in style.

The second generation of the 3 series, aka the E30 launched in 1982 and remained in production until 1994, helping to establish the Bavarian manufacturer’s cars as the "Ultimate Driving Machine". 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, we saw styling changes that included redesigned rear lights, front bumper, and a reduction of chrome trim, along with extended rust protection. Automotive press from around the world praised BMW for the E30's handling capabilities.

This example has been in the hands of Harish for the previous 15 years, over that time he has fitted a few tasteful modifications including Alpina replica alloys and lowered Eibach springs.

This auction listing was written from information supplied by Alan after meeting Harish 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 always been a big fan of the E30 - I love the way this car drives and corners, taking it out for a spin is always an experience.

Harish has always loved the classic shape and style of the classic E30 since he was a teenager. When turning 30, he decided it was time to own one and went straight to the classified of the BMW car club to find an example that suited him.

Harish tells us he had the bonnet resprayed to attend to some lacquer peel, he's also changed the wheels from the standard E30 SE alloys to an Alpina set, lowered the car using Eibach springs, fitted a Clifford G5 alarm system with proximity sensors, and 6-speaker alpine audio set up with iPod connectivity.

After many years of ownership Harish will be sad to see the car go, he loves the pure driving experience the car offers, the way it handles corners and its poise when parked up with its large Alpina wheels. Now he's downsizing his house, he doesn't have anywhere to dry store the car and would love to see it go to a like-minded BMW enthusiast, someone who will be able to enjoy the car as much as he has. Harish will be happy to answer any questions you may have in the comments below.

Harish
Vehicle Owner

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

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Exterior

A masterpiece of 80s design and engineering, the classic E30 will turn heads wherever you venture.

Wheels and Tyres

Fitted with some aftermarket 17" Alpina replica alloys from, the wheels look in great condition all around with the slightest of marks on the front nearside wheel.

They are wrapped in Yokohama Parada Spec-2 and dated 2010/15, the tyres appear to have a good amount of tread with a slight mark on the front offside wall. Take a look at the photos and videos for a closer look at these wheels.

Bodywork

The 2 door coupe, it's arguably the body type most E30 enthusiasts crave for. The bodywork on this 3 Series looks to be in good condition, the car has suffered from a front collision in the past, where it was declared a Category C insurance write-off in April 2003. The panel gaps around the front bonnet and rear bumper could do with some professional attention. We noticed a very small dent on the bonnet and driver's door also.

We did see some small areas of corrosion around the side skirts, 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 a deep and attractive BMW "Diamantschwarz Metallic" (181/9), 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. Harish reports the car has been resprayed, which can be seen in the history media pack. 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 good condition throughout, we only notice one very small chip in the front windscreen, the rubber seals appear tight around the windows and have not perished. This example is fitted with a sunroof from factory, watch the videos to see it in action.

Interior

A very comfortable and ergonomic analogue cabin, with all the controls and switch gear directed toward the driver.

Seats and Carpets

An SE specification interior, lovely cloth seats with deep bolsters to keep you in place. The interior of this car appears in good condition, especially for its age and mileage.

When inspecting the seats, we noticed the usual wear to the driver's bolster, the carpets and door cards all look in good condition. The driver's side of the headlining would benefit from a little touch-up, an easy fix on a Sunday afternoon we think.

Dashboard

The black dash looks in great condition, in line with the rest of the interior and will be a familiar sight to any previous BMW owner.

Harish has fitted a Clifford G5 alarm system with sensors and an Alpine head unit with a new 6-speaker set up for better audio output.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Fitted with an original BMW three-spoke sports steering wheel, which makes manoeuvring the 325i an absolute joy.

A BMW gearstick is present and both the wheel and stick are present in good condition.

Mechanics

The star of the show, the 2.5L M20 Straight-six, ideal for those with more of an enthusiastic driving style.

Engine and Gearbox

The M20 is the engine of choice among enthusiasts and purists, catering for BMW fans' power desires. The car became hugely popular when it comes to motorsports, mainly due to the rear-wheel-drive/front-engine layout.

The car starts from cold with no issues and drives well with its smooth five-speed gearbox powering the rear wheels. Take a look at the mechanical video to see the car starting from cold, and for a closer look underneath.

Suspension and Brakes

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.

Harish reports he has lowered the car using Eibach springs. He reports the car offers smooth rides for long distances and holds its own in the corners, with prompt stopping power.

The Drive

The perfect balance of both performance and handling, while being an extremely practical coupe. Harish has covered ~25,000 miles over his ownership, mentioning he thoroughly enjoys taking the car out on weekends and holidays around the UK.

Electrics and Other

The electrics are said to work as they should, just a few things to mention; the motorised ariel currently isn't extending, the ABS light stayed on on our visit. This example does have the addition of a Alpine head unit and new 6-speaker setup, along with a Clifford G5 alarm.

History and Paperwork

An appreciating classic, a great opportunity to break into the E30 market while it's still attainable, this Diamantschwarz Metallic six-cylinder coupe could be a steal.

The E30 comes with a decent history file dating back to when it rolled off the production line. Harish reports dry storing the car in his garage and giving it regular MOT and mechanical services when required.

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

We’ve done all our usual checks; Seller ID, V5C, HPi - Category C insurance loss recorded in April 2003.

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
16.02.2022 MOT 85,757
31.01.2019 MOT 85,710
05.12.2017 MOT 85,594
26.01.2016 MOT 85,348
30.10.2013 MOT 85,335
23.05.2013 MOT 85,326
23.02.2012 MOT 84,794
15.12.2010 MOT 79,903
18.11.2009 MOT 75,325
20.11.2008 MOT 69,702
19.11.2007 MOT 65,089
11.10.2006 MOT 61,971
20.10.2005 MOT 60,170
04.12.2001 Service (MD) 53,744
07.02.2000 Service 46,695
23.07.1996 Service (MD) 35,956
03.08.1992 Service 23,116
24.10.1991 Service 17,526
10.04.1990 Service 6,272
07.09.1989 Service 1,427
Key Details
  • Model325i SE (E30)
  • TransmissionManual
  • Reg. Date01.08.1989
  • CC2,494
  • Mileage~86,000
  • HistoryGood
  • ColourDiamantschwarz Metallic
  • Interior ColourGrey
  • Interior TrimCloth
  • Chassis #WBAAA12050AE53237
  • Engine #21814626
  • MOTYes. Exp - 15.02.2023
  • MOT ExemptNo
  • Road Tax ExemptNo
  • HPi ClearCategory C insurance loss
  • Former Keepers3
  • Tyre BrandYokohama
  • Tyre Age2010/15
  • Security SysClifford G5
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned~15 years
  • Key FeatureOwnership







Vehicle Sold

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Ask Questions
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14 Comments
webbo185
webbo185
2 years ago

Does this have a sunroof?

OAKELY
OAKELY
2 years ago

Hi there, it seems though the rear left door sill/arch has some rust showing through, has this been repaired previously and does it spread from there? Thanks

JJones75
JJones75
2 years ago

Hi Harish, wow I love your E30!! I see it was a category c insurance claim and the blurb says it was front end damage. Do you have any more info or pics? Also it states Twickenham – is that with you or auction storage?
James

JJones75
JJones75
  HarishL
2 years ago

Thanks Harish, am I able to come and see it and is it in Twickenham?

jpaustin
jpaustin
2 years ago

Hi from the pics I can see the near side jacking point has been removed and the floor replaced badly, is there any other parts Been cut out and replaced?

michael89
michael89
2 years ago

Is it possible to view the car tomorrow sometime?

endless
endless
2 years ago

Hi there can I kindly view this weekend in Twickenham? Tx

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Vehicle Location

Twickenham

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