Used 1987 BMW 325is E30 Classic 106k mi well maintained and ready for... for sale in Charlotte, MI

VIN: WBAAA1309H2323723

106k+ miles, Delphingrau Metallic
M20B25, Getrag 260 5speed, 3.73 LSD
Power sunroof & locks, Diagnostic OBC, Cruise
Extended leather & sport seats, Premium audio
Mtech bumpers & suspension, 14" OE basketweaves

I am selling my 1987 BMW 325is, a true to form classic automobile; with which I have spent the last two years restoring to mechanical esteem the likes any driving purist could relate to as her character beams you back in time along each turning of remarkably assured rubber. Sitting for quite a while before I acquired the keys and wherewithal to diagnose and replace the dozens of items that had over time cracked and displaced a sputtered spirit from what was one time one of the most graceful cars on the road, the understated predecessor to the first production M3.

Single owner in Kentucky prior to me. Bought from an enthusiast in Cincinnati who'd added the ride to his collection after it was in storage for over a decade, but had only performed minimum work on the car as to keep it running. Thoroughly inspected by my local master tech.

The ride home to Michigan was impressive and uplifting, with how confidently she steered with tires all dry rotting. A whole crew of insects greeted me, their home now moving. Some lights and some sounds were a little startling. Rather the headlamps were out and missing door jambs led to a very loud cabin that teetered with heavy winds.

I didn't get out much those next few months. I bought the Bentley and absorbed it. Days were spent dissecting, cleaning and replacing dozens of hundreds of parts and pieces. I became close friends with the nearest dealer who became invested upon seeing the transformation, sparing no expense to retain OEM integrity. If anything came off, chances are what went back on are brand new. Fasteners too. Her rust free belly saw no salt and little snow and stayed that way.

Timing belt was the biggest to-do and the entire cooling system was revamped with it, followed by electrical, intake and fuel prep systems, alongside seals and fluids. Mounts and bushings and suspension ends were next to bring the controls back into check. The trunk was without a liner, so my brother and I crafted a handsome wooden one to the unique shape and I smile everytime I place something on it.

All I did was think about this car and the potentials of driving it around the mountains that next summer. So I did.

There were few repairs needed throughout the next year and a half. A fuel pump and filter went out on me climbing up in the Smokies and I was grateful that the parts were available and replacement was possible with the small kit I'd brought with me. I discovered there was a second pump inside the tank running harsh and without an inlet filter, so I replaced that too. After which, the speed and consistency the motor responded with was nothing shy of exhilarating as we glided out & back down the length of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

I slept so soundly on the ground for many nights at many overlooks. Mornings began catching the bright orange sunrise reflecting off the fender and into my eyes.

Breaking down daily monotony with a retroactive commute, revving freely to a sweet slow eight second sixty simply puts the rest all into perspective. I felt the same enviable release my previous M3 had bestowed me, without the uncanny need to drive over speed as the E30 feels right at home consciously cruising the back roads.

We've gone another fifteen thousand miles since then with few hiccups. Never been stranded or needed towing. This car, once properly accustomed, has been so easy going and comfortable to move around in. Haven't seen anything else like it on the road. I had a hard time getting out of some parking lots in Asheville, she got so much love.

I've come around to realizing this beautifully engineered car has served me as much as it can and am ready to hand over the wheel to the next person, in hopes they will be able to continue the work and admire each ride like their first time. These amazing little cars are very rare to come by and show no signs of slowing appreciation. I need to put the same amount of love and effort into something with more clearance and room to grow into as my travels evolve.

maintenance log, more photos & walk-around video: