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Thread: Identifying Correct "Model Year" E30

  1. #1
    Join Date
    Jun 2022
    Location
    Houston, TX
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    1988 BMW M3, 2019 BMW M5

    Identifying Correct "Model Year" E30

    I recently purchased a 1988 M3 and couldn't be more excited to join the community! After doing some digging on one of the many VIN decoder websites, it looks like the Production Date is 11/21/1988... This has me wondering if this is actually a 1989 "Model Year" vehicle with the production date being that late into 1988? The vehicle has 1988 listed on the title with the previous owner, but I'm wondering if it was an oversight on their end before titling it.

    VIN: WBSAK050801894551

    Thanks in advance for any insight you guys can provide!

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Feb 2009
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    Arizona
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    1998 e36
    if it says on the Title 1988 then it is 1988 model year.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Nov 2019
    Location
    Milwaukee, WI
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    553
    My Cars
    1989 325ix, 2003 4.4 x5
    Funny, my ix lists 10/88 production on the frame and is titled 89 🤷🏼

  4. #4
    richardodn's Avatar
    richardodn is offline Old Guy BMW CCA Member
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    Although generally model year production starts September of the previous year, that's not a law. It wouldn't surprise me if BMW had continued production of the 88 until they were ready for the refresh in 89. Here's some year by year history. https://www.hagerty.com/media/buying...-buyers-guide/
    "Howdy, Folks!"

    1986 Delphin 528e - Roof rack equipped lumber hauler.
    1989 Zinnoberrot 325iX Sedan - I miss this car. (Deceased)
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    2008 Platinum-Beige X3 3.0si - Current project
    2012 Alpine White X3 xDrive35i - My new snowmobile.
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  5. #5
    Join Date
    Sep 2007
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    Regina, Sask, Canada
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    82 320i 89 325i
    if it was sold and spec'd during the 88 model year it would have the 88 title even if it had a late build date. a number of the cars sold were ordered months ahead.

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