1986 BMW 3 Series 325i E30 Manual
NSW • Private
41
Odometer98,000km
Body typeConvertible
FuelPetrol
TransmissionManual
Comments from the seller
For Sale: 1986 BMW E30 Convertible – Fully Restored & S50-Powered
A truly exceptional E30 convertible — restored, reimagined, and mechanically transformed into one of the most desirable and usable classics you’ll find anywhere.
This is not a “tired cruiser”; it’s a full-scale rebuild that delivers the best of BMW’s analog era, with the performance and reliability of an M3 heart.
⸻
Engine & Drivetrain
Under the bonnet sits the legendary S50B30 engine from the 1994 M3 — a 3.0L straight-six masterpiece — fully integrated with a modified factory BMW harness, ensuring every dash function and OBC works as intended.
During my ownership, the engine underwent a complete professional rebuild ($35,000) — everything from the block up was done right, with precision and documentation to match. It now runs flawlessly and feels genuinely new.
Paired with a Getrag 5-speed gearbox featuring a short shifter, S14 M3 differential (3.14 ratio), and a custom sway bar setup, it’s tight, mechanical, and beautifully balanced on the road.
⸻
Chassis & Brakes
Handling and braking have been modernised without compromising the E30’s character:
• Bilstein shocks, re-gassed struts, and new springs
• 4-piston front calipers with 280mm discs
• 2-piston rear calipers with 262mm discs
• Upgraded master cylinder
Everything underneath this car has been refreshed, making it as capable as it is confidence-inspiring.
⸻
Exterior
Finished in a crisp Alpine White (ceramic coated and detailed to concours standard), paired with a black convertible top and new M-Tech II body kit with the correct convertible sills.
Other highlights include:
• Refurbished 17” Alpina-style wheels with new tyres
• New headlights, fog lights, turn signals, and clear side markers
• Fiberglass M-Tech rear spoiler
The bodywork is flawless — sharp, straight, and better than new.
⸻
Interior & Comfort
Inside, the cabin feels OEM+ — everything looks and feels factory, just enhanced:
• New leather upholstery, gear boot, handbrake boot, and M-Tech 2 steering wheel
• Racing Dynamics gauge faces
• New carpet mats and Android touchscreen audio system with Hertz speakers, Infinity amp, and Kicker subwoofer for clean, modern sound
• Air conditioning and all electrics functioning as they should
Every tactile surface feels refreshed and properly sorted.
⸻
Details & Extras
• 63L custom fuel tank with matching gauge
• Complete tool kit (every piece included)
• Powder-coated engine details (rocker cover, nuts, plenum)
• Meticulously maintained and always garaged
⸻
Summary
This E30 represents the perfect blend of classic BMW design and modern M performance — built with no expense spared, and refined even further under my ownership. The recent engine rebuild and detailing elevate it into true collector-grade condition.
If you’re after a turn-key, fully sorted, S50-powered E30 Convertible that feels as special to drive as it looks, you’ll struggle to find better.
Car details
øVehicle description
E30 325i Convertible 2dr Man 5sp 2.5i [IMP]
Powerplant type
Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)
Cost to insureSponsored
Exterior colour
White
Interior colour
Black
Body type
Convertible, 2 doors, 4 seats
Transmission
5 speed Manual
Engine
4 cylinders, Petrol Aspirated, 2.5L
Registration plate
Check with seller
Cost of financeSponsored
Registration expiry
5 months/October 2026
Build date
Check with seller
Compliance date
Check with seller
Cost to transportSponsored
Roadworthy certificate
Provided at pick-up by seller
carsales Network ID
SSE-AD-19557603
Engine
Engine type
Piston
Engine Location
Front
Engine Size (cc)
2494cc
Engine Size (L)
2.5L
Induction
Aspirated
Engine Configuration
In-line
Cylinders
4
Camshaft
Overhead Cam
Valves/Ports per Cylinder
2
Compression ratio
9.7
Engine Code
M20B25
Generic Engine Type
Piston
Power
126.0kW @ 5800rpm
Torque
226Nm @ 4000rpm
Power to Weight Ratio
100.4kW/t
Transmission & Drivetrain
Gears
5
Gear Type
Manual
Gear Location
Floor
Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel
Fuel Type
Petrol - Unleaded ULP
Fuel Capacity
55L
Fuel Delivery
Multi-Point Injection
Method of Delivery
Electronic
Wheels & Tyres
Rim Material
Alloy
Dimensions & Weights
Length
4325mm
Width
1645mm
Height
1380mm
Wheelbase
2570mm
Track Front
1407mm
Track Rear
1415mm
Kerb Weight
1255kg
Other
Country of Origin
GERMANY
Launch Year
1986
Launch Month
1
Generation Name
E30
Series
E30
Badge
325i
Doors
2
Seat Capacity
4
Body Style
Convertible
Probationary plate status +
Victoria
Approved
Queensland
Approved
South Australia
Approved
Australian Capital Territory
Approved
Western Australia
Approved
Northern Territory
Approved
Tasmania
Approved
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Estimated cost before offer
$85,000Excl. Govt. Charges
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Nicholas Siafakas is the sellerLocation
Castle Hill, NSW 2154
Member since
2014
Verified information
Phone number
Get in touch with the seller
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ø Specifications have been sourced from Automotive Data Services Pty Ltd (Redbook) and are based on manufacturer standard features and specifications, some of which may require subscription. Actual features and specifications for this vehicle may differ. Please confirm these details with the seller.
+ P-Plate approval status is provided as a guide only, using data sourced from a variety of government and industry based sources. You should verify the status of the vehicle with relevant state / territory authorities and the vehicle manufacturer / authorised agent. carsales is not liable for any loss or damages (other than in respect of any liability which may not lawfully be excluded) relating to your use of, or reliance on, data contained on this site. By using this site you acknowledge that you use the information subject to the terms of the above disclaimer and notice.
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