So I'm re-budgeting, and therefore getting rid of the Pontiac Wave.

I'm currently looking to get a BMW 3 series (in about 7 mos from the mid 80's - mid 90's. Is there any particular model to stay away from and what's the price range that would be decent for one in decent condition?

E30s (1984-1991) are a great buy if it's been taken care of. They're pretty cheap to maintain as well.
The E36 ('92 and up) is decent as well, but a bit pricier to buy and repair.

I've owned 5 or 6 E30s, and all but one have been excellent. The one with the issues sat in a field for 5 years though.

if you buy an E36, first thing on the list for preventative maintenance is metal waterpump and coolant outlet.

2002

I was thinking about a 2002, but the only one around here is over $8k, I'm trying to reduce my budget.

You can't go wrong with an E30, get the 2.5l straight six. Theyre a couple grand at most, with plenty of easy aftermarket stuff, and they have a very BMW feel... also theyre much faster than a 2002







The M version will cost a bit more, but has a turbo 4 cylinder. Theyre probably out of your price range, and the 2.5l 325 has a better engine anyways.



You can get a non-M convertible, of course, Id like to get one if I had the spare change/better weather.

E30 is a possibility.

What's the diff between M3 and M5?

And no to the convertible.

Posted by atomx E30 is a possibility. What's the diff between M3 and M5? And no to the convertible.

Try hitting up google, but ill oblige:

The M5 is a bigger, faster, more expensive car.

E28 M5:



based on the 535i



Or the newer E34 '89+ M5



based on this



The E30 is still the best bang for the buck and the most available on the used market.

Thanks, yeah E30.

So this is what I'm looking for: 1988 E30 325i. I like the car over all. But price will be the factor.



Less the m additions.

there is an early 90's 3-series for sale here for $500

I bought a decent '91 318is with /M tech wheels and suspension for $500 last winter... but I traded it for an aircooled Beetle.

Also, don't shy away from the "eta" engine. It's a super torquey 2.7 liter six that came in the 325e. I ran one up to 535,000 km and it still ran great. They have a low redline, but the cars are geared nicely.

E cars are practically worthless (bought mine for $300 and drove it for 3 years), and get awesome fuel economy... think Belleville to London return trip for under $40... doing north of 160 the whole way.

Posted by Louie The M version will cost a bit more, but has a turbo 4 cylinder. Theyre probably out of your price range, and the 2.5l 325 has a better engine anyways.

E30 M3 motor is not turbocharged. it is a 2.0L 4cylinder with individual throttle bodies and doesnt use a hydraulic valvetrain. these things were meant ro rev! they were around 10.5:1 if i remember correctly and made about 200hp or so until 1989 when they had 220hp

Posted by Durdan

Doh... it looks good in videos, but Ive always been turned off by its missing cylinders

So my lease is coming up and I'll be looking again cause I'm getting rid of the car.

Does a 1987 325ix with 220k on it for $1700 sound good?

Why people plague themselves with the troubles of an older European car is beyond me.

Posted by atomx So my lease is coming up and I'll be looking again cause I'm getting rid of the car. Does a 1987 325ix with 220k on it for $1700 sound good?

If it's been looked after, that's a decent price. If it seems beat up or neglected... run.

Anyone know the RedBook value for the 87 325iX?