Description:

On the block this week is a beautiful example of the E30 body BMW 325i, a convertible in tuxedo black with biscuit leather interior.  A classic in the making, these German roadsters have legendary drivability and a reputation for being durable and rewarding. This one does not disappoint.

The black finish is in excellent shape and shines nicely, and there is not a hint of corrosion on the sheet metal or underneath.  There are limited imperfections such as dings and scuffs, and nothing that detracts from the very clean and positive impression given off by this convertible.  The factory alloy wheels are in very good condition, and Bosch driving lights add to the sporty and aggressive look of this car.  The convertible top is in very good condition and operates smoothly, though there is a small slit in the back window that has been taped up.  The lights are clean and clear, and the glass is in very good shape with no chips or cracks.

Inside looks very good overall, though the Florida sun has deteriorated the leather in places.  The carpet is clean and intact with no tears or rips, and the dashboard has no sun fading or cracking.  The passenger seat has a few small tears in the left side of the bolster, and moderate entry and usage wear.  The passenger seat looks better, and the back seats are good except for two seam splits near the very top.  It looks very presentable overall, and could be touched up by an upholstery shop at reasonable costs if you wanted it to be perfect.  The factory AM/FM stereo is in the dash and sounds great, and all of the gauges and indicators are working as they should.  The 12 way seats adjust to virtually any passenger, and an expensive aftermarket armrest has been tastefully installed for driver comfort. 

This BMW is not short on options, with power windows, power central locking, cruise control, power antenna, 4 speed automatic transmission, alloy wheels, the performance V6 engine, a trip computer, tool set, and driving lights.  The owner's manual is included, and a spare tire with all jacking hardware is stowed properly in the trunk.  The all season radials are in good shape with about half of the life left on them.  The doors and trunk close with a solid European "thud," and you can feel that quality has been built in to this machine.

Mechanically, this sporty BMW is in excellent shape.  The potent V6 engine fires right to life and idle smoothly, maintaining good oil pressure and proper engine temperature in all driving conditions.  The transmission shifts perfectly through the gears, and the car goes down the road straight and smooth with plenty of available power.  The brakes stop the car confidently with no pull or shudder, and the power steering provides lots of road feel.  The suspension handles corners or bumpy roads with ease.  It drives very smoothly on the interstate, and wind noise is quieter than most of the convertibles I've driven lately.  This car gives off the impression of having been very well maintained mechanically, and service records are included for a large portion of its life.  It's a genuine treat to drive.

If you are looking for a clean, sporty, and durable convertible with lots of sporty and European appeal, this would be an excellent choice.  It has been well cared for, drives very smoothly, and should provide many more miles of dependable driving if kept on a good schedule of maintenance.  Bid with confidence, this is a nice one.