Faults:

Front fog lamps didn't work (blown bulbs).

Trip computer back-light bulb has blown.

The boot lets in water in heavy rain.

General Comments:

A superb performance car that is also now available very cheaply though they're now recognised as a classic BMW so prices are rising.

Very comfortable, with excellent ergonomics, the straight six also makes a lovely noise.

Fun to drive, these cars are responsive, rear wheel drive and have plenty of power in standard form. Reasonably economical too.

Reliable, and with good parts availability, so they're pretty cheap to run if you get a good one.

There's also good on-line advice available from the E30 Zone, Planet E30, etc.

Faults:

Front passenger window motor failed at 79,000 miles.

Power steering failed at 88,000 miles.

Ignition failed at 102,000 miles.

Rear bumper started to become loose during final year of ownership.

General Comments:

The 320i was, considering its age and mileage, a very reliable and solid car which also had excellent ride and handling.

Its practicality could have been better, as it only had two doors and the back seats were rather short on space.

Fuel bills and maintenance costs were relatively high.

I paid £3,000 for the 320i when it was eight years old. Three years later I sold it to a mechanic for £1,000.

Faults:

None so far.

General Comments:

Well, what can I say. YAHOO!!! What a beast. It may be 16 years old, but can she fly.

The main reason I bought the car was to annoy all the little boy racers in their Novas and Fiestas. The looks I get when I pull up at the lights are comical. They laugh at me because they think it is a heap, although they soon shut up when I rev her up. When the lights turn to green she just picks up her skirt and runs. The boy racers don't know what has hit them until they eventually catch me up at the next set of lights. Hee Hhe what a honey. I shall be keeping hold of this baby.

If anyone knows the performance figures of the 320i 1988 model, could someone put them up as I am interested in just how fast the old girl is.

Faults:

Leak from power steering pump reservoir.

Front seat hydraulics broke - MOT fail.

Water pump leaking at 182000 miles.

General Comments:

New jubilee clip fixed power steering leak.

2nd hand seats fitted - £100 for a pair. Seats are very uncomfortable - too wide & not enough support.

Water pump cost £25, but is a nightmare to fit - everything in the engine bay is in the way - will take the next one to a garage.

Engine is fantastic - as an ex-biker I wanted some cheap performance - the car cost £900 and with 172hp does the job nicely. Unfortunately the handling is typical rear wheel drive - you can slide the back so easily it's ridiculous, especially in the wet.

Very easy and relaxing to drive if you take your time, will bite you if you push too hard.