1990 BMW 316i E30

Highlights

• Carefully selected from eight examples viewed, with a mechanic confirming its condition at purchase
• Full respray carried out by a previous owner who worked at a bodyshop
• Serviced by the current owner throughout their ownership
• Significant mechanical work carried out in 2026, including driveshafts and brake components
• Interior parts gradually replaced with genuine BMW parts

The Appeal

The E30-generation BMW 3 Series remains one of the most admired compact saloons of the late 1980s and early 1990s, prized for its balanced chassis, clean styling, and robust engineering. The 316i, with its willing 1.6-litre inline-four paired here with a four-speed automatic gearbox, offers a relaxed and accessible route into E30 ownership.

This Glacier Blue Metallic example was hand-picked by the current owner after viewing eight cars, with a mechanic on hand to verify its condition at the time of purchase. A full respray was carried out during a previous owner's tenure, that owner reportedly worked at a bodyshop, lending confidence to the quality of the work. The current owner has maintained the car conscientiously despite low usage, and has progressively refreshed the interior with genuine BMW parts. Substantial mechanical work has been carried out in 2026, and the suspension benefits from uprated springs and dampers. With an advisory-free MOT valid until June 2027, this E30 presents well and appears ready to enjoy.

Key Information

• Mileage: 121,959 miles (odometer is currently inoperative; estimated actual mileage is approximately 123,000 miles)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• MOT status: valid until June 2027, no advisories
• Technical specs: 1,600cc inline four-cylinder petrol, four-speed automatic
• Paperwork: the car has been serviced by the current owner throughout their ownership; V5C, MOT certificate and recent invoice included

The Detail

• Brake calliper and hoses replaced in 2026
• Driveshafts replaced in 2026
• Rocker cover gasket replaced in 2026
• Front brake pads and discs replaced during the current owner's tenure
• Eibach springs and Bilstein dampers fitted all round
• Wiper motor replaced approximately two years ago
• Oil changed every spring by the current owner despite low usage
• Current owner intends to keep the mono wheel seen in the photographs so original wheel will be refitted
• Blaupunkt Madrid 200 BT stereo fitted
• Front seats appear to have been recovered at some point and present well
• Slight wear noted to the rear seats, which are all original
• Slight rust bubble present on the roof and on the sunroof panel, described as inside the roof but not inside the car
• Slight battery drain present; the vendor advises running the car up to temperature every four weeks or so
• The vendor states that everything works and runs as it should

BEFORE YOU BUY

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