BMW 318i Cabriolet (E30)

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The superb E30 series of BMW compact saloons and coupes ran from 1982 until 1994 and, to many enthusiasts, were the last of the real driver-focused models from BMW.

One of the nicer models in the E30 line up was the 318i Convertible, launched in 1985. By 1991 when this car left the factory, the 1,796cc 138bhp four-cylinder 16-valve engine was in its final state of development, delivering nearly 80bhp/litre thanks to its chain-driven double overhead camshafts, hydraulic tappets and individual coil packs.

Driving through a 5-speed Getrag manual gearbox, the four-cylinder was the most balanced of the bunch and was the car to have in the late Eighties when it became known as the ‘Poor Man's M3’ although even then they were never exactly cheap. Superb driving machines, they are still sought after today.

This 1991 cabriolet is one of the smartest examples we have seen in a long time. It spent 17 years with its prvious keeper (ten of those in storage) before our vendor bought it and undertook a major engine rebuild. 2,000 miles later the car is nicely run-in and driving as sweetly as BMW intended.

Our vendor is something of a BMW connoisseur and says that this one is ‘in excellent condition and completely rust free’ and if you think he is exaggerating you are allowed to have a good look at the car to see for yourself. The car is currently showing 107,862 miles on the clock and has an MOT to June 2020 with no advisories.

This is an exceptionally clean example of an established modern classic and a great driver’s car. It is ready to enjoy roof up or down and should provide its new owner with many miles of stylish motoring.