Looking to buy an E30, teach me all that I need to know...

[Dark Helmet]

hey all, I am starting the search for an E30 to drive and modify (a little), and was kinda wondering if there is anything I need to know, anywhere I need to go (for info), or something I need to do...

if this has been covered, just tell me where!

thanks...

[Dark Helmet]

I should also add that I'm leaning toward a 318is if a DASC will bolt on.... freaking 12-valve!

[Bry]

http://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/sh...threadid=35273

Check out the thread posted above.

If you are getting a 318iS, make sure the profile gasket was changed!

What is a DASC?

If I were you, I would go and lurk on some boards, to look for some info

www.roadfly.com/bmw/forums
www.bmwe30.net
www.dtmpower.net

just look on several boards for info about the cars, maybe problems that you could check for etc. I can't give much advice since I don't own one.

Sorry for the short message, I don't know what else to look for!

[Dark Helmet]

thanks bry.... I had planned on using E30.net, but its basicallly gone.

I don't play well at DTM, so it looks like .org is all that is left.

THANKS





oh, and DASC is "downing atlanta supercharger"

[TheBestCow]

May I suggest www.maxbimmer.com

group out of toronto/general canadian bimmer site

lots of e30s

i would put more but my toe is killing me

[Dark Helmet]

thanks some more....!

[dirtyvegas]

I have looked for a supercharger kit for my E30 with no luck. The Downing Atlanta kit, as well as the other kits for the M42/M44 engines only work with the E36 and Z3 models. I believe the E30 lacks the necessary knock sensor to work with these kits. I love my 318, it is balanced and is fairly tossable. But if you're looking for power, you might want to start with a 325.

[Bozo325]

Das, what's your objective for the car?
Fun daily driver ?

I sure love mine, even though it's not the latest and greatest it sure handles well and is nothing but fun to drive. The engine is still 'visible' and not that hard to work on either... many regular repair parts are pretty inexpensive.

Some of the regulars from BEN are trying to put a new site & board together.

[Dark Helmet]

fun driver, roughly 180-200hp, decent looks (late model bumper, maybe some skirts, sport springs.

This car will serve as daily transport for 12-24 months while My wife and I get into a new house and all that jazz (bye-bye Z3), and after that, I will either get another Z3 or possibly a 540, or something like that.

at that point, the E30 will become my "project car" with a goal of about 250hp, coil-overs, M coupe rear suspension. etc.....

[Bozo325]

Aha ! That makes it easier... IMHO if you're buying a house (perhaps starting a family?) you want an '87+ 325 i or 325 is...

$5K +- should get you started.

Trouble is, you may fall in love with it.. the E30's handle and have a 'teutonic' feel that's somewhat diminished in the newer ones..

Your life will change when you own your own house.. it changes your perspective on everything.

[Bry]

Hmm... If you are using it as a daily driver, I suggest that you go with a 1989 to 1991 325is. You may find that the lack of power in the 318is is not much fun, the 325is has lots of power and torque. Also, in those model years, there are the newer, updated plastic bumpers (much better aesthetically).


The E30 is a very simple car. It doesn't have much computer internals, so it is very easy to work on. It is a great car to fix up, and have fun with, take to the track or auto-x. You will really enjoy the handling also. The E30's always put a smile on my face!

[Dark Helmet]

thanks a bunch guys... the wife thinks i need a 4-door, we'll see about that...

and "starting a family" is a while off.... just sick of paying rent. and I don't really think that anything can top the Z3 in overall fun... that is why I'm going to buy another one here soon.