Need some quick buyer's advice

[1975BMW2002]

I love vintage BMWs - own a 75 2002, a 83 320iS and a 86 325eS.  I have come across a 91 318iC that I am VERY interested in but not knowing much about this particular E30 I need some advice. Let me say upfront that I did some searching of the forums but I am sort of pushed for time on this thus why I am asking the question.

The car is an all orignal paint (still has good shine on everything except the thrid brake light housing) car with a great top and very nice interior.  Side booster on the driver's seat has some wear but otherwise the interior is nice.  Everything works on the car including A/C and windows.  Car is of course a 5 speed and has 129K miles.  Car has manual top - think that is the only way the 318iC came??

THe problem is that there are no maintenance records.  I realize on most E30s they are timing belts but I "think" this engine has a timing chain?  If so, what is the change interval, if any, on it?  What maintenance shoudl I have done as soon as I get it home (assuming I buy it) and how much should it cost me? I need to figure that in with the price of the car.

The car has a clean carfax with no accidents, etc.  The asking price is $4K but I am pretty sure I can get it for $3500 - does this seem fair for a fairly low mileage 318iC?

I plan to make a decision on the car tomorrow so any advice you all ahve will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Robby

[Ramblin MAn]

There was an issue with the profile gasket letting go. If you look around on this site you will see a ton of info on the upper oil pan to block bolts falling out (something you can fix fo free as long as you catch it). Bushings are probably fairly dry rotted with age. The timing chain's tensioner has a new design so you should ask if they have the new one or not. Seems like m42 chains stretch easy but at 129k I don't think you should worry.

Thats all I got.

[vonkamp]

$3500 would be a good price for the condition you describe. I would buy it.