Re: 318is question (archive)

Spoilers are body-color. Window trim is black (shadowline). Look for evidence of collision, rust, repair, and respray. Check for the telltale VIN# stickers on each body panel. Fender stickers are in the top inner engine bay groove, hood is at pass. front corner (just above radiator), doors should each have one, etc...

Be careful of dealer service departments. Some are more "righteous" than others. The biggies on the '91 318is relate to the M42. They are the profile gasket (replacements have also gone bad - change coolant annually) and a leakdown test. Timing chains can wear if the tensioner is neglected, as well.

RobW

Do all 318is cars have the trunk 'lip' spoiler?

They should...

Were the moldings color matched to the car or painted?

To my knowledge they should all have black trim.

I am looking at a 1991 model.
How do I know its a genuine numbers matching car?

Check the VIN on carfax and make sure there are VIN stickers on the trunklid and front fenders

Is the BMW dealer a good place to take it for a mechanical check (compression and leakdown and general check)?

It all depends on the dealer, go to any mechanic you trust ( that knows something about BMWs) for your prepurchase inspection

Follow Ups:

[ Follow Ups ] [ 3-series (E30) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.