1988 BMW 316 E30

Highlights

• Current owner has had this since new, but transferred it temporarily to a friend's name when moving abroad for a year, and then back to the current vendor
• Vendor has the original bill of sale and paperwork
• With the same vendor for over 38 years
• Accompanied by a history file with invoices spanning over nearly 40 years
• Owner's manuals and service book present
• Less than 2 years away from ULEZ compliance, MOT and Road Tax exempt
• MOT valid until June 2027

The Appeal

The E30-generation BMW 3 Series has earned its place as one of the most celebrated sports saloons of the 1980s, and the two-door 316 offers an accessible, lightweight entry into E30 ownership. Finished in Zinnabar Red over grey fabric, this 1988 example is an honest survivor with a reassuring ownership history.

Having been in the current keeper's hands for approximately 38 years, this 316 has clearly been looked after. The history file contains invoices stretching back to 2005, documenting regular servicing and maintenance at both BMW specialists and trusted independents. The service book is stamped up to 2014, and owner's manuals accompany the car. Some cosmetic wear is present, but this is a usable, well-documented E30 with the kind of long-term ownership that inspires confidence.

Key Information

• Mileage: 103,470 miles indicated
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• MOT status: valid until 19 June 2027
• Technical specs: 1,766cc four-cylinder petrol, five-speed manual, two-door saloon
• Paperwork: V5C, MOT certificates, owner's manuals, service book stamped up to 2014, and service invoices from 2005 onwards

The Detail

• Serviced in February 2025 at 102,587 miles, including new oil and filter, air filter, fuel filter, spark plugs, and spark plug leads
• New heater blower motor fitted in February 2025
• Temporary exhaust repair carried out at the most recent MOT in May 2026
• Four Uniroyal tyres fitted in November 2018 with tracking alignment
• Clutch and master cylinder replaced in August 2014
• Driver's door lock replaced in December 2013
• Rear brake shoes and cylinders replaced in April 2008
• Weber carburettor conversion fitted in May 2007
• MOT advisories include a non-excessive oil leak from the cam cover gasket, slightly corroded underbody, low-hanging exhaust, and worn front suspension arm bushes on both sides
• Paint fading noted on the doors
• Slight wear on the front BMW badge
• Scratches noted on the wheels
• Updated Kenwood stereo fitted
• 14-inch wheels

BEFORE YOU BUY

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