1988 BMW 325i Convertible

- E30 Automatic
- Sold New in Grosse Pointe, Michigan
- Alpine White with Blue Leather Interior
- 2.5L/168HP Inline 6-Cylinder FI
- Sept. 2022: Oil Change and Rear Suspension
- Solid Little Car

Being the second generation of the 3 Series, the E30 is known for its stylish looks and true entry-level luxury. It replaced the E21 3 Series with a couple of new changes for BMW. It was previously offered in two-door coupe and convertible body styles. But after the new generation came to light, BMW started producing a four-door sedan and estate-style variants of the 3 Series. However, it is the convertible E30 that transformed BMW from the enthusiast's well-kept secret to mainstream full-line automaker. When this 1988 BMW 325i convertible hit the streets, BMW had become fashionable to up and coming young urban professionals and as well as fully functional driving machines. What really makes these trendy little convertibles so popular is they have the performance and handling that make it an enthusiast's choice, and they are still quite affordable in today's market.

With only 107,271 original miles on the clock, this is a very solid little Bimmer. The bright Alpine White finish is totally original and offers a nice change from the more familiar red and black cabrios running around. There are some swirl marks and minor chips and blemishes in the finish, but it presents very well with a nice luster. The clean, chiseled lines of the E30 3-Series are familiar and look as good today as they did more than 25 years ago, suggesting status, performance, and quality in BMW's uniquely quiet way. The black bumpers, fog lamps, and even the rubber components all remain in very good condition with only light signs of age.

The simplicity of German luxury is not lost in the cabin of this 325i. In true Bavarian style it is not over-loaded with tech, and is clean, concise, and straight to the point. Handsome well-bolstered blue leather buckets show some age-related wrinkles, but the upholstery remains soft and supple. There is some light wear and soiling in the carpet and floor mats, but the interior panels are clean and free of any rips or cracks. This car was built before airbags were mandatory, so the steering wheel is a beautiful leather wrapped 3-spoke unit which frames a 150-mph speedometer, a tachometer, and gauges for coolant temperature, instant fuel economy, and fuel level. Other features include AC, heated front seats, power windows, and an onboard computer. The factory AM/FM/Cassette player is ready to fill the cabin with all your hits on your 80's mix tape, along with a Sony CD player installed in the glove box, and the BLC bass box in the trunk will insure the neighboring cars will also be enjoying the music as well! The canvas convertible top fits snugly showing some light color fade and despite some light scratches in the rear window it remains clear. The trunk is clean and spacious, top up or top down and the factory tool kit is still present.

The heart of this 1988 BMW 325i is the 2.5 liter inline-six engine, which is legendary for its turbine-like smoothness, flat torque curve, and brilliant exhaust note, all of which are the true music to your ears with the top down. These engines are very reliable, easy to service, and still a joy to drive in today's era of 600 horsepower supercars. This engine was rated at 168 horsepower and 164 pound-feet of torque from the factory. The engine is mated to a four-speed automatic gearbox and drives the rear wheels only. This engine compartment is clean and presents as well cared for.

The underside of this car is in good order and very clean, it is lightly undercoated and there are no indications of any rust or accident repair. Braking is handled by ventilated front and solid rear discs with ABS. The combination rolls on BMW “bottlecap” 14″ alloy wheels which carry the right-sized 195/65/15 Arizonian blackwall radials. As you'd expect, the suspension is capable, the brakes are powerful.

This 80's icon is a perfect throwback to the eras fashion and performance and is still relevant today. This E30 is easy to drive and doesn't mind the daily grind and is always ready for powering through your favorite twisty back road. Is this car the ultimate driving machine? The ultimate sun-tanning machine? The ultimate status symbol? Why can't this BMW be all three? Drive this car home and your neighbors will probably think you've hit the lottery when they see this BMW in your driveway. Please call if interested or e-mail with specific questions and thank you for looking.