Description

Swiss collector’s vehicle with manual transmission, only 93,000 km and sought-after pre-facelift version

Highlights

This BMW 325i Cabriolet is one of the most desirable variants of the E30 series. The vehicle originates from Switzerland, was part of a long-standing BMW collection, and presents itself as a rare pre-facelift version with classic chrome bumpers. Particularly noteworthy are the manual transmission, the low mileage of only 93,000 kilometers, and the extensive optional equipment. The last veteran inspection (MFK) was carried out in July 2022 in the canton of Zurich. According to the owner, the cabriolet was used exclusively as a fair-weather vehicle, is accident-free, rust-free, and has always been stored in a climate-controlled garage.

General information about the model / history

When BMW introduced the E30 Cabriolet in the mid-1980s, the brand set new standards in the open mid-size segment. Unlike many contemporary competitors, it was not a converted two-door model but a fully BMW-developed cabriolet with extensive structural reinforcements.

Within the range, the 325i Cabriolet holds a special position. The legendary M20 inline-six engine with 2.5 liters of displacement combines refined smoothness with the characteristic sound of a classic BMW six-cylinder. With 170 hp, it was one of the most powerful versions of the open E30 family and is today one of the most sought-after youngtimers of the brand.

Early production models with chrome bumpers are particularly desirable, as they preserve the original design language of the E30 and have become significantly rarer than later plastic-bumper versions.

This vehicle

Exterior

The cabriolet is presented in the classic color combination of dark blue metallic with beige leather interior. The elegant lines of the E30 are especially highlighted by the original chrome bumpers. According to the owner, the vehicle is accident-free and completely rust-free and has only been driven in good weather conditions.

It is currently equipped with 16-inch five-spoke wheels, Eibach springs, a strut brace, and a Remus sports exhaust system. All modifications have been inspected and registered as part of its veteran approval. Upon request, the original muffler as well as original BMW wheel sets with hubcap or cross-spoke wheels can be included.

Interior

The interior impresses with its extensive equipment and well-maintained overall condition. Features include leather seats, seat heating, cruise control, electric windows, a large onboard computer, automatic climate control, and the original BMW cassette radio. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with an original BMW wind deflector.

Particularly attractive for collectors are the original M-Technic II steering wheel and M-Technic gear knob, which emphasize the sporty character of the vehicle.

Technical

The cabriolet is powered by the 2.5-liter M20 inline-six engine producing 170 hp (125 kW), delivering its power via a manual transmission to the rear wheels. The combination of six-cylinder engine and manual gearbox is considered the most desirable configuration of the model range among enthusiasts.

As part of extensive maintenance work carried out about 3,000 kilometers ago, the cylinder head gasket and bolts were replaced. In addition, the cylinder head was overhauled, valves were reground, and numerous wear parts were replaced, including the water pump, timing belt, valve cover gasket, and spark plugs. The last regular service was performed at around 90,000 kilometers.

History

The vehicle was first registered in June 1989 and comes from a long-standing Swiss BMW collection. The mileage of 93,000 kilometers is documented through the service booklet and existing vehicle records. All onboard documents and keys are present, including an aftermarket remote key.

Service and documents

All onboard documentation, a fully maintained service booklet, and all vehicle keys are included. The last veteran inspection (MFK) was carried out in July 2022 in the canton of Zurich. Extensive maintenance and repair work is documented and underlines the vehicle’s excellent condition.

Summary

The BMW 325i Cabriolet is one of the most desirable open classics of the late 1980s. This Swiss example stands out due to its rare pre-facelift configuration, manual transmission, low mileage, and extensive optional equipment. The documented history, comprehensive maintenance work, and the owner-stated accident-free and rust-free body make this vehicle a particularly attractive offer for collectors and enthusiasts of classic BMW six-cylinder models.

Commentary

The E30 Cabriolet represents an era when driving pleasure existed without electronic filters. The silky smooth M20 inline-six, the precise manual gearbox, and the clean design make every drive a special experience. In this rare pre-facelift configuration with chrome bumpers, the cabriolet appears especially elegant and serves as a reminder of why the E30 has long been considered an icon of BMW history.

Condition & Registration

Condition category
Authentic
MOT
Historical license plate
Registered
Ready to drive
Accident free

Self assessments

Engine (Seller assessment)
Paintwork (Seller assessment)
Interior (Seller assessment)
Technique (Seller assessment)

Inspection Report

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Technical Details

Vehicle data

Make
BMW
Model series
3 Series
Model name
325i
Manufacturer code
E30
First registration date
06/1989
Year of manufacture
1989
Mileage (read)
93,000 km
Chassis number
WBA BB1 107 0EB8 7652
Engine number
Not provided
Gearbox number
Not provided
Matching numbers
Yes
Number of owners
2

Technical details

Body style
Convertible
Power (kW/hp)
125/170
Cubic capacity (cm³)
2467
Cylinders
6
Doors
2
Steering
Left (LHD)
Gearbox
Manual
Gears
5
Transmission
Rear
Front brakes
Disc
Rear brakes
Disc
Fuel type
Petrol

Individual Configuration

Exterior color
Blue
Manufacturer color name
Royalblau metallic
Power Assisted Steering
Yes
Central locking
Yes
Electric windows
Yes
Interior color
Beige
Interior material
Leather
Heated seats
Yes
ABS
Yes
Cruise control
Yes
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