1984 BMW E30 316

This E30 may have fallen beneath the radar of a 1980’s yuppie, and that is perhaps its saving grace. Being the entry level 316, two door model this E30 would more likely have been the choice of a considered and conservative buyer, and one much less likely to fit big aftermarket speakers and a myriad of stick on M-sport bits and bobs. We know that this 316 was supplied new by BMW dealers Kinders of Ashton-on-Ribble, Lancashire, it still has their original number plates and dealer sticker. Supplied in April of 1984, this E30 was specified in charming Opalgrun Metallic (171) paintwork and an equally interesting Piniengrun (149) fabric interior. So far, so verdant.

Three further keepers were thought to follow before our 316 was acquired by current keeper, Dan, in September 2019. At that stage the E30 had covered a very sensible and way below average 78,000 miles or so. Perhaps more remarkably, however, it remained in totally original, factory gate specification seeming to have totally resisted the attentions of the weekend modifier or ardent aftermarket parts buyer.

Hence, today, this proud entry level E30 offers something that so many of its more powerful and more showy brethren can’t. Originality and complete authenticity.

There is a purity of line associated with unadorned entry level versions of modern classics that is often irresistibly endearing. Stripped of the fripperies of higher specification models, these cars give you a fascinating insight into the evolution of model progression. That’s very much the case here, with this 316 retaining a surprising degree of modernity, belying its 40 years. The super, period appropriate green livery helps, of course, combined with its stunning originality. The green paintwork is thought original but is by no means immaculate. Whilst a good level of lustrous shine is evident there are variously areas of scratching, bubbling, minor corrosion and naïve repair noted. Our photographer has helpfully captured these for your review.

Although seemingly prudent at heart, the original specifier of this E30 seemingly had a flamboyant side, too. They splashed out over £400, or nearly 6% of the base car’s cost, on a manual sliding steel sunroof after all. Green tinted glass and that delightful metallic paint hue added a further £350 to the tally making this a base model, yes, but not one devoid of desirable options.

The original buyer baulked at the £556 being asked for alloy wheels, however. They weren’t completely reckless after all, it seems! The 1980’s was a time when steel wheels could be made to look entirely acceptable and appropriate with just the simple addition of a set of chromed, BMW badged centre caps and that’s what’s on offer here.

A matching set of Uniroyal RainExpert tyres in a 175/70 configuration are fitted and date stamped from 2018.

The E30’s interior featured a further development of BMW’s signature driver orientated dashboard with the centre console markedly canted towards the driver. This combined with the crystal clear white on black VDO gauges, and warship operations room style red illumination at night. This configuration together with the sporty, four spoke steering wheel seen here was enough to convince most that they were truly piloting the “ultimate driving machine.”

So plush looking are our car’s seats that it is a surprise to learn that this green hued, self-patterned velour was, in fact, standard fare for the 316. Its seemingly superb condition 40 years on should not be taken for granted, either. The levels of originality on display are impressive and the E30 Achilles’ heel of a propensity to dashboard cracking is clearly not a problem here.

The original specifier couldn’t resist a few box ticks on the interior options list either. Pop-open rear windows were specified as was a BMW radio cassette head unit. Whilst it fits the period well, it is thought that the current head unit is a later addition. Dan may be persuaded to include “Now That’s What I Call Music – Vol 6” in cassette form if asked nicely.

The well-shaped boot is an enclave of originality all of its own. The original boot carpet is present, and the immaculate steel floor contains an immaculate spare wheel well. An immaculate looking spare wheel and tyre is included. The BMW dropdown toolkit “quotient of completeness” registers an impressive 9/10. Given one empty chamber is for a locking wheel nut and hence not originally included for the steel wheels, only the Z-shaped double ended screwdriver appears missing.

The E30 316 carried over the M10B18 four cylinder engine from the equivalent E21. Somewhat flying in the face of the 316’s naming convention, this unit is 1,766cc in capacity and served by a single carburettor originally delivering around 90bhp or so. This example enjoys yet one more desirable option – the £333 five-speed “overdrive” gearbox. A key addition, this makes the 316 considerably more enjoyable and economical on the motorway. Another benefit of the 316’s 1980’s unadorned specification is a 1,000 kg unladen weight, meaning that the average driver feels in no way shortchanged on the road by the engine’s modest output.

Under the bonnet of this 316 the charming originality continues. All expected data plates and embossed VIN numbers are evident, and the inner panels look straight and clean. There is some potential to some minor improvement to the black finish of some components but nothing more serious. The underside of the 316 looks in keeping with the rest of this well presented example.

The paperwork archive starts with the V5 registration document in the name of the current owner. The current, advisory free MoT is on hand in hard copy showing validity until November 2025. A number of earlier MoT hard copies are also present, helping to validate this car’s modest and linear mileage history. With this example registered in April 1984 it will currently be eligible for owner declared MoT exemption and become zero rated for road tax in April 2025.

The original BMW book pack is included. There are 3 folders documenting most of what has happened to the car over the years, including the original service booklet forms part of this and documents numerous services and annual body integrity checks. The last service is noted in March 2022 at 84,407 miles. A number of invoices are on hand, including one from October this year documenting over £600 worth of professional attention to the jacking points and lower sills.

The E30 3 Series played a key part in cementing BMW’s place in the hearts and minds of enthusiastic owner drivers the world over. A few well chosen tweaks combined with some fortuitous timing made it into the world beater that its predecessor failed to become. A true high water mark for the BMW, the segment and for the prevailing automotive landscape.

This 316 is a wonderful survivor. It may seem a little humble on first acquaintance, but therein lies its considerable charm. The originality of this car and its very good, but not concourse, condition puts it right in the sweet spot for many discerning buyers. Try finding an equivalent which such originality and solid provenance and you will realise what an exciting ownership prospect this truly is.

We are happy to offer this car for auction with an estimate in the range of £6,000 - £10,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this particular car is located with the vendor in Bath, Somerset. To arrange an appointment to inspect this vehicle, please use the ‘Enquire About This Vehicle’ button on the listing. Feel free to ask any questions, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.