Desmond
Desmond Reader
7/6/14 10:07 p.m.

http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/1494655?ad_cid=2

I can get it for $2,500. People are telling me to snatch it up because its a great deal for a 325is. I am planning to use it as a daily that will occasionally see HPDE/Autocross/Rallycross time. It looks like it has minor rust, but all cars here do to an extent. Unless the rust is TERRIBLE, I will probably buy it. Looks super clean.

So, any pre-purchase things I should check? Common problems with these cars? Trouble areas? I do like how the guy listed it as a "V6" instead of an I6. Any advice before I jump on this tomorrow is much appreciated!

mr2peak
mr2peak HalfDork
7/7/14 1:37 a.m.

The hood gap on the front left. Could simply be a mis-adjusted hood, or evidence of a slight accident. Either way, check it out.

Other than that, read the buyers guides that you can find with a search. Much more comprehensive than what I'm willing to type out ;)

Feedyurhed
Feedyurhed SuperDork
7/7/14 5:50 a.m.

Looks pretty good in the pics..........seems to have all the desirable stuff. Not sure how he could get the motor wrong in "his little BMW" so that's a little suspicious. Covers on the seats may hide splits/tearing. Price is good. Check for rust in the usual spots, trunk, floor boards, rockers. If you can get underneath it that would be a big plus. Check Carfax. Good luck with your decision and/or purchase.

ddavidv
ddavidv PowerDork
7/7/14 5:57 a.m.

Check floors, trunk, rockers and jack points for rust. Plan on doing a timing belt and water pump IMMEDIATELY upon purchase; don't trust what the seller says if he claims he just did it.

Lower suspension, replace bushings, add sway bars, drive it like you stole it.

Joe Gearin
Joe Gearin Associate Publisher
7/7/14 9:33 a.m.

There is a nearly 100% chance that the odometer isn't working. (they all break) Perhaps you can use this as a way to whittle down the asking price.

There is also a very good chance the "Brake Light" warning will be on, but the brakes are fine. Since the seller doesn't know his car very well (calling it a V6) you may be able to use this too as a way to get a better deal.

Great cars---- if you get a good one!

itsarebuild
itsarebuild HalfDork
7/7/14 10:05 a.m.

Check the rear subframe mounting points and rear shock towers for rust. These are both expensive fixes.

Mr_Clutch42
Mr_Clutch42 HalfDork
7/7/14 10:43 a.m.

$2500 seems a little high unless it's because E30s are getting a little scarce. Also, the front control arm bushings are integrated with the arms, so if they're worn out, you have to replace the control arm.

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