Epic mileage on an E30

[declasm]

I've spotted a pretty looking E30 318is in the PH classifieds (http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/1773692.htm). It's quite local and it's quite cheap. I've got my E34 540i touring so I'm looking for something to complement it (smaller, lighter more economical). I've had several E30s before and know and love them. The main sticking point with the one I've seen however is the absolutely incredible 260K mileage. Can anyone with experience of mega-mileage E30s tell me whether it's viable to take one on?

[Liquid Knight]

Average 10,000 miles a year. Spot on.

Engine and drive train are bullet proof if the car's been looked after. Look out for bodged repairs, modifications and seat wear as an indication of the years of use or abuse. E36's are cheaper, better and arguably safer as well. Enjoy.

[trickywoo]

If it checks out on a test drive (no blue smoke / funny noises) I'd offer them £500 for it.

The snowy pictures suggest they have been trying to sell it for a while.

[SJobson]

Liquid Knight said:

Average 10,000 miles a year. Spot on.

It's not 26 years old!

[Oi_Oi_Savaloy]

Mine (325i touring) has done 208,000 miles (oil change every 3,000 miles in my possession with oil filter, fuel filter and aair filter done every 6,000) and she's running well but I can't help but think I've unconsciously started to treat her with kid gloves.

I very rarely thrash her (5,000 revs and beyond) and when I do I feel guilty.

I know that has no bearing on your 260,000 mile 318is but I'd look for something with a little less mileage on it if only to stop you feeling guilty when you cane her!

[Mroad]

If serviced correctly there shouldn't be an issue unless it's had a hard life, i.e. a lot of short journeys.
For example:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHmMlU8Q-V8
1 million miles E30 325 and still going strong today (I know not a 318 but the principle remains). The actual car is now in the UK and has just been bought by Car Mechanics magazine with another 60k on top.

[D_G]

Mroad said:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHmMlU8Q-V8

What a load of advertising bks. Running a proven engine in prime conditions with any quality oil will produce the same result, there was absolutely no provision for cold start or real world driving anywhere.

[bazking69]

I've seen many a post 200k E30 still running and in fine fettle.