E30 Performance in snow?

[bp9129]

Hey guys, Ok so right now I'm debating between an automatic 1989 325ix sedan with 111k on the clock OR a 5spd 1991 318i sedan with 128k on the clock. Both are in great condition. Very clean interior, exterior etc. I was really leaning toward the IX only because i live in Pittsburgh and we tend to get some good snowfalls in the winter. I was wondering how well the 318i would perform in the snow as this will be my daily driver throughout the year. Is it worth sacrificing another $1000 plus the 5spd transmission for an IX?

Any input is appreciated. Just let me know how you guys feel about this

Thanks

[Irish1]

I drove an E30 325is for many years when I lived in snowy mountains with no problems at all. When the first snow hit I put the Michelin Pilot Alpin snow tires on and had no problems. If the 318i you're considering doesn't have a Limited Slip Rear End the 325ix might be a better choice, but in either case snow tires are a good choice in cold weather.

[dawgeatdawg]

pick the 318i..5 speed is the way to go. I drove a 1988 325is with snows for four years in the snow and it was great!

[E36BMW3series]

You'll notice there is a pattern here: Get snow tires!

Given the choices you have listed I would save the 1000 on snow tires and get the 318. Ideally though, I would find a 325iS and get snow tires on that.

[BradR127]

Yep, it's all about the tires.

In my life I have driven AWD with bad summer tires and RWD with good snow tires.... and the latter seemed to do better in the snow.

[unearth078]

the ix's are quite good in snow. other e30's in the snow can be a tad nerve racking. however it helps if you have appropriated tires. this kinda goes for the e30 and all weather conditions though.

[Asrial Dune]

I've been driving E30 etas for 7 years and haven't ever had a major problem in snow. A good set of tires and common sense will do you a lot of good.

[Juicy Double]

buy the e30 and get snow tires. swap the tranny.

[EUROtrash4zewin]

5spd RWD ftw

[DACi]

blizzaks rock

[jbudd21]

5spd RWD ftw

Yes! I love the feeling of a RWD car in the snow... so much easier to control then a FWD... because you can steer with the accelerator in stead of just plowing into a corner like FWD.

[Mad Machine]

I actually prefer front wheel drive in the snow (it's why I bought my saab) while you cannot steer with the accelerator, you can feather the brakes slightly while using the throttle to keep the fronts spinning.. old rally trick.

In many cases, I can go faster and in more control than most SUVs.

My only issue with using an E30 in the snow is rust. If they use salt on the roads where you are, it will destroy an E30

[M62pwrdE38]

Mine does great with Blizzaks.

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r105/M62pwrdE38/snowpics001.jpg