Looking at a 87 325. What do you think?

[brian_poole]

I'm looking to get into the E30 world. I just need a reliable car that is fun to drive. While I enjoy a nice looking car, affordability is also an issue. This car was advertised as "minor rust in the wheel wells." Now, that obviously isnt true. It also has a pretty loud engine tick that didn't seem to go away after it warmed up. Lifters or chain tensioner...? I can take it for $900 but what do you guys think? is there a cleaner, less noisy one out there for not too much more money? Is it worth the gamble that the lifters could be on their way out for $900? I just want the opinions of some people who know these cars.

Thanks for helping a newbie out!

[TopOfTheLine89]

there are no "lifters" in that motor, the loud valve tick is normal, wouldn't pay over 600 for it and that would be kinda high, fuck rust.

[woodisgood]

I would say keep looking.......rust is bad.

[brian_poole]

there are no "lifters" in that motor, the loud valve tick is normal, wouldn't pay over 600 for it and that would be kinda high, fuck rust.

Thanks! The guy was a complete idiot then. He blamed it on the lifters. Why would I want to buy a car from a complete idiot? 180k, by the way. Thanks for your guys advise.

[E30QC]

the rust is the imediate no no.. i mean, the valves need adjustment once in a blue moon, but if its' more then 400 bucks, then it has no value whatsoever.. but for parts it might be worth it.. thats the main issue with our cars, finding parts.. lol

[Aptyp]

wouldn't pick it up for free

[NeoMishMoo]

I would be skeptical of the 180k too. The odometer gear probably went out a few years back. Talk him down to about 500 and get it. The rust is pretty bad but it would still be a good budget car. If you need a cheap car then the 325e is a great choice, these cars seem to last forever.

[mcr_driver]

keep looking imo...

[Zacm829]

Pass

[einstein57]

unless your planning to put some m3 quarter panels id pass

[jeffw]

bad idea that rust is horrible

[norwood e30]

No! move on to the next

[Mako18]

run and run fast!!

[uberCerealkiller]

way over priced. i'd give hime 300 bucks for it. Thats about all its worth with that rust. I bought mine 3 years ago, zero rust, small tear in the driver seat, 87 325e coupe, for 800 bucks. Ran great. Looked great.

[scottinAZ]

dont walk, RUN away from that one. I hot my 87 325 for 650 with no rust, and needing a master cyl for 650. With that rust, its good for parts, unless you really love doing body work