Re: Just the top...> (archive)

As with any German car, have a good BMW servicer look over the car for mechanical and chassis soundness. Electrical very trouble free (except for the Service Interval Board which wreaks havoc with the tachy) Any BMW e30 is a very solid and reliable car as long as it has been well maintained over its life.

Actually the '87 (cabrio only) uses the 1.1 Motronic System also.

You will need to change the timing belt (unless you have receipts PROVING it has been changed recently)

Try to get one with a good center back seat - this is where the leather seems to rot 1st.

Hydraulic shocks in the top and the boot are usually weak, when these are good top operation is very smooth and easy - also the tensioning straps (2 longitudinally from front to back) make a BIG difference so you don't need to manually bend and fold the top on the way down.

Plan on converting the A/C to r134 - the conversion shouldn't run more than an average A/C repair, old R12 freon is priced out the roof.

Side mouldings and interior are unique to the cabrio and are thus harder to find/more expensive.
- Seats stitched like M3, unique rear seats.
- Window motors are different than other e30s

'87 has the advantage of being the 1st year in the US (I know some plusses and minuses there, but cabrio was in production in Europe in '86).
But BMW put alot of its E30 model improvements in the Cabrio a year sooner than the fixed roof versions. i.e. Mot1.1, all body parts have VIN on them...

'88 has ellipsoid headlamps, updated cruise.

Is about the only added maintainence, however, be forewarned about the extra noise level from outside. Polish the rear window, inside and out, I use Meguiars Swirl Remover. When you change tops, good idea to change all weatherstripping.

I'd suggest buying an 88 or newer fir the reason of engine control, Motronic 1.1, allot better than '87 Motronic 1.0. Keep the leather well-conditioned, sun can dry it out and crack. If the billfold is fat enough, buy/install a front strut brace to cut down on windshield shake.

Just a few thoughts

Everett 88 325iC Need more power, Scotty!!!

Would a 325ic (1987-89) be a good car for a high school/college student?
I have a part time job and anywhere from $7000-$11000 to spend on one.
Are they expensive to maintain (besides top replacement)?
Thank you for your time and advice!
Sean Kennedy

Follow Ups:

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

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