My first post . great to be among friends
here's some info on the 318 is:)
It debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1989 but was overshadowed by the launch of the 850i. Eventually, it was sold in most markets but was most popular in Italy, Spain, Portugal, UK, Ireland and North America. Even so, the 318is is a relatively rare car with 41,234 being made (out of a total of 2.2 million E30's = 1.86%). 9,442 were made in 1990, 29,171 in 1991 and 2,621 in 1992.
As of 2001, there are just 1687 UK 318is left registered with the DVLA in the UK - I guess Ireland has only about 150. I would therefore calculate that there are only ~15-20,000 E30 318is left roadworthy in the whole world - making them nearly as rare as E30 M3's! :eek:
The model was made different to the other sub 2 litre models by mainly incorporating changes in the engine, chassis and braking areas to overall improve its performance to GTi levels. The car was not sold or marketed as a boy-racer though, its overall heavier weight penalising its acceleration competitiveness, but appealed to the more astute driver who valued durability, depth of engineering and resale potential.
The 318is was dechromed and an extended front spoiler was fitted. Some of these spoilers were recessed in the middle, some had front foglights fitted and most had brake cooling ducts. Warmer climates had a grill (or even two) under the bumber to allow extra air to the radiator which was blanked elsewhere. A solid rear lip spoiler was also fitted as on other models. The M-Tech aerodynamic kit was also an option.
