Bilstein sells an inexpensive front strut mount (bearing)?

[BFeng]

I'm helping my niece with her newly acquired 1991 E30 iX coupe. She is just a kid waitressing to fund her E30 iX.
Her front strut top bearings are worn out (rubber is cracking). I was shocked at how much new ones cost ($250 to $300).
I'm sure many here would love to have a reasonably priced alternative to the $300 BMW 31331701167

She can't afford them. Before I help her out with some $, I searched for alternatives on the internet
First, The BMW part is available in Europe for a bit less. $225 each at www.schmiedmann.com. Still too expensive

Next: I searched several UK & DE BMW parts sources, and found Bilstein listing a strut mount that they say fits the iX.
https://www.bilstein-shocks.co.uk/products/12-248605
They cross reference this part to the strut mount for a non-iX E30.

https://spareto.com/products/bilstein-top-strut-mounting/12-248605#nav-oe

https://www.mlperformanceusa.com/products/bilstein-12-248605-bmw-e24-e28-e30-e34-b1-front-top-strut-mount?variant=44567255679292

Question 1: Did Bilstein get it wrong?
Question 2: What's the physical incompatibility between the strut mount for the iX and the RWD E30s? Not having parts in hand, the iX part looks a little bit like an upside-down RWD mount.

Multiple other shops also sell a cheap strut mount that they say fits the iX, but cross references to the RWD E30.
Here is a link to a shop that sells one of these inexpensive mounts:

https://www.autodoc.parts/ridex/8058166

And another:
What are the chances Bilstein is right?

Thanks.
John

[BFeng]

Response from Bilstein UK
amyone believe Bilatein?


I just heard back from out tech centre. They informed me that this 12-248605 is listed for the 325iX.

It is a special order part and will take 2-3 weeks to arrive.

Should you wish to place an order, here's the link through our website: https://www.bilstein-shocks.co.uk/products/12-248605

And if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out.

Cheers

--

Best Regards / Mit freundlichen Grüßen,

Dominique
Parts Specialist/Aftermarket Sales

Bilstein-Shocks.Co.UK

Sourcefy Ltd. | 71–75 Shelton Street | Covent Garden | London | WC2H 9JQ | England

Phone:+44 207 8701187
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[D.Martijn]

Going of from the pictures on the autodoc website, these are NOT suitable for the iX.

If buying new is no option for you maybe look for used parts that are in better condition..
I've found these two strut bearings in Germany:

https://www.kleinanzeigen.de/s-anzeige/2xstuetzlager-domlager-bmw-e30-325-ix-alle-modelle-31331701167-/2803044902-223-1186

[CrazyPrime]

I know you are trying to save money, but at that price I would consider buying coilovers.
Yes its more extensive but you are already half way there on price. Might be something to think about.

[packratbimmer]

The iX is an expensive BMW to work on. Unless she needs the AWD, how about selling the iX and getting into a RWD car that will be much cheaper to maintain.