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FAQ / REFERENCE => M42 Buyer's Guide => Topic started by: Centaur on December 01, 2015, 07:01:49 AM

Title: Need some advice - E30 318is
Post by: Centaur on December 01, 2015, 07:01:49 AM
Hi guys!

I'm looking for an E30 318is and since I'm new to these cars/engines, I would like to get some advice from you.

This is the car that I found:
http://www.car.gr/classifieds/cars/view/7152987/?lang=en

Most of the text is in Greek but he just mentions the car extras, the fact that he changed the clutch and duplex chain in 200K Kilometres and that the car has the original paint except the left front wing. He also retro-fitted xenon lights.

I checked the chassis number and all looks good, the extras are all factory fitted (except xenon lights). 

What is your general opinion on the car. Is there anything strange or something else that I should be aware of? Price is 5000 Euros ($5300).

Hope everything looks good, I'm really excited to get an E30!

Thanks,
Costas

 
Title: Re: Need some advice - E30 318is
Post by: DesktopDave on December 01, 2015, 08:47:53 PM
That does look like a very clean & presentable car, especially the interior. It's rare to find one so clean. I'm not sure about safety or emissions regulations in Greece, I'd recommend a professional pre-purchase inspection unless you're a pretty competent mechanic.

The weakest point on these cars is the cooling system; ask when the water pump, expansion tank and radiator were last changed. If the coolant level is low, or you find some goo under the oil fill cap, be sure to get a pressure test done on the cooling system. Cam chain can also cause problems, so it's good to see that he's refitted new cam gears and chain.

Otherwise they're straight-up E30 fun. Same problems that they all have - worn out suspension bushes, weak struts, cracked dashboards.
Title: Re: Need some advice - E30 318is
Post by: Darky on December 02, 2015, 01:02:05 AM
Hi

That's a nice bus, usually two tone tartain seats though rare to have leather!

Regards
Title: Re: Need some advice - E30 318is
Post by: Centaur on December 02, 2015, 09:08:50 AM
Thank you for all the info, hope everything goes smoothly!