BMW E30s

This is a pretty broad question, but i need some information about these BMWs. Im looking at a 1990 convertible specifically. I know the engine is fairly reliable, and I’ll be able to do basic work on it but what specific issues do these things have. I can deal with oil leaks and stuff, as long as the transmission and engine work. Anything about timing belts/chains? electrics? suspension issues? and my biggest worry is rust. Also how are parts for these things? Pretty general but i feel like people here know a good amount about these.

Newman drives an E30 you should ask him…

Alright will do thanks

Coldaccord is the king of e30s

As far as parts, they’re pretty cheap. M20s (which this one probably has) have a timing belt that should be done every 60k or so. They can be very reliable. M50 swaps are very straight forward for more power. They really dont rust that quickly, compared to other 1990 model year cars

Www.r3vlimited.com is a great resource

Do you have any other more specific questions?

Just things i should watch out for. It has 208k miles, but for how little i plan on paying i dont mind. My VW friend has someone who offered to change the timing belt for about 200 bucks so that sounds good. The car itself needs new rear brakes and tires soon but that i can take care of that. The top is manual and the transmission is an automatic. Are the transmissions reliable and how often should i change the fluid in that? Electrics are what i really hate but is there any common problems with those? From people i have talked to, these are pretty simple cars to work on. I know close to nothing about BMWs.

If you’re expecting reliability out of a 22 year old BMW with 208k miles on it then good luck.

Reliable with realistic expectations. Its not going to be my only car, more of a project/summer car. I can deal with minor issues as long as it will run and be road worthy. As time goes on, ill just replace a little here and there and in the end have a fun car to drive around in. Hopefully it is still for sale and checks out. I am just doing a little research on the things if i do end up getting it.

Auto :tdown:

Haha most convertibles are autos. I dont mind to be honest because if someone wants to drive it, they will be able to in my family. I’m supposed to look at it tomorrow so hopefully it checks out. I almost bought a Mercedes a few weeks back, but the taxes importing it from Canada (didn;t know it was canadian) would have been way to much.