1990 BMW 3 SERIES

FOR SALE: One of only 28 RHD examples, a lovely 318iS cabriolet with 87k miles, ex-Steve Coogan.

VIEWINGS WELCOME BY APPOINTMENT ONLY /// FINANCE AVAILABLE /// ADDITIONAL PHOTOS AND VIDEOS ON REQUEST

EQUIPMENT

Brilliant Red paintwork, Silver Uberkaro cloth, 5-speed manual transmission, 15-inch BBS alloy wheels, Baur Top Cabriolet removable roof panel and folding rear hood, Vinyl tonneau cover, Front and rear spoilers, M Sport steering wheel, M Sport gear knob, Electric windows, Electrically adjustable door mirrors, Blaupunkt Bremen SQR 46 radio with Bluetooth and USB, Analogue clock, Lockable glovebox, BMW tool kit, Jack, Warning triangle, BMW first aid kit, Alloy spare wheel.

EXTERIOR

This rare 318iS Baur ‘Top Cabriolet’ presents to an excellent standard all around. Having just been treated to a full detail and machine polish on arrival with us the paintwork retains a great depth of shine with a deep and uniform colour throughout. The panel gaps are spot-on, the black plastic trims are unfaded, and there are no signs of corrosion in any of the usual E30 weak spots such as the wheel arches or scuttle panel. In line with the mileage there are a few small chips and discreetly touched-in marks but nothing to detract from the car’s highly impressive appearance. The Baur cabriolet roof is also in excellent condition with no wear to the removable centre panel, roll bar, or folding rear section. The 15-inch wheels are free from kerb marking with matching Goodyear tyres all round.

INTERIOR

At 35 years old, unlike most 318iS’ that have covered circa 150k miles, this stunning example has just 87k miles under its belt. The low mileage is particularly evident from the superb condition of its interior. The chequered cloth sports seats are first-rate throughout with no damage to the bolsters or bases. There are no cracks on the dashboard and the switchgear still feels reassuringly solid to operate. A retro-style Blaupunkt USB/Bluetooth head unit has been fitted for modern convenience but with all the period styling of an original ‘80s tape deck. In the boot you’ll find a pristine load area that’s still equipped with the BMW tool kit, first aid kit, warning triangle, spare wheel, and handy storage shelf for the roof panel.

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

Lift the bonnet and you’ll find a well presented engine bay, not overly dressed to a concours standard but in excellent unrestored condition with no signs of damage or previous poor repair. The 1.8-litre M42 engine boasts DOHC, updated valve adjusters, and a respectable 136ps from the factory. The engine is as zingy and free-revving as its reputation suggests, and the 5-speed manual gearbox makes for an engaging and thrilling drive. The last service was carried out alongside the most recent MOT in May 2025 and prior to this, at 80k miles, the car had an Inspection II carried out by Munich Legends.

HISTORY

First registered in August 1990 this rare Baur convertible was supplied new by Richard Cound BMW Centre in Gloucester. It has now driven just 87k miles in the hands of 7 registered keepers including actor and comedian Steve Coogan. According to BMW, only 28 318iS models were ordered from Baur, making this particular E30 a rare find indeed. As the 318iS was only ever available from BMW in coupe form, if you wanted one as a convertible then an official conversion by Karrosserie Baur in Stuttgart was your only choice – for a princely sum of course.

This E30 is accompanied by a great maintenance record with 18 stamps in the original service booklet. From 2021-2022 the car was significantly gone through by marque specialists, Classic Heroes, with over £19,600 spent in total. Under current ownership the car has been regularly MOT’d and maintained despite the low mileage driven. The accompanying history file comprises a raft of invoices, MOT certificates, the original BMW document wallet, and all owner’s manuals. A documented speedo change was carried out under warranty in 1992 at 7,926 miles.

Please visit our website for a full write up and additional photographs.

FINANCE and EXTENDED WARRANTIES available.

Worldwide shipping is available on request.

Tel - 01420 479909

VIEWINGS STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT

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SIMILAR REQUIRED /// Please get in contact if you are thinking of selling a similar classic or sports car.

We are always looking for high quality, low mileage classic cars with good service history from the early 1970s to the 2000s. If you are looking to take the hassle out of selling your car privately then please don't hesitate to get in contact. We offer a professional and friendly service with two different sales options detailed below...

SALE OR RETURN – This option achieves the best possible price for your car and removes the hassle of having to prepare, advertise, arrange viewings and organise payment with potential buyers. You can rest assured that your car will be pampered in our heated indoor showroom and kept in safe hands during the process.

OUTRIGHT PURCHASE – This is a quick and easy way to sell your car. The funds will be securely transferred the same day to your designated bank account.