So I'm looking to get my first E30...

['e30love']

simply put, no stock e30 is "fast" some are more nimble than others outta the box though.

if you want a bulletproof e30, get an m10. if you want torque, get a 325e, you want a broad power range and the cheapest to be able to get down on some mods that make a difference, get a 325i. like rallying? - no you can't have an IX. want a cabby to catch some rays with? go get a miata, no one's selling. you want a balanced "zippy" type of nimble e30 that costs more that its worth to make faster? get an m42 powered 318i/is ...building that motor just doesn't deplete your pockets fast enough and your left wishing it cost you more? think your better than others for no real jusifiable reason whatsoever? or just want 5lugs cause you already have a set of wheels worth atleast 3 e30s just laying around getting dust? get an S14 powered m3.

You want a faster e30 but are scared of things that can blow up? buy an e30 from a reputable enthusiast who's already broke their bank dropping in an s/m5X 24valve from an e36 that you can buy off them for the value of the gum stuck on the bottom of your shoe.

want something that's gonna appreciate in value? get something rare like a vintage tuner model, top of the line, etc. that has low miles, clean history, in near PERFECT shape and be ready to never drive it and trade your first born child for it cause the previous owner disregards fair market value due to their emotional blindness.

welcome to the flock, your clothes will be burned, your head shaved and new ID number tattood onto your left calf in the next room. everyone say "hello #25569"

Full of win what's my # tag? Lol

[xwill112x]

Really? I haven't heard or read that. How do you know?

uhh its well known. i've beat the redline in my m42 so many times i can't even put a number on it and its still going strong.

try that with an m20 and report back with findings, you will either snap your timing belt or break your rocker arms. ask me how i know.. :)

[Jparkr]

uhh its well known. i've beat the redline in my m42 so many times i can't even put a number on it and its still going strong.

try that with an m20 and report back with findings, you will either snap your timing belt or break your rocker arms. ask me how i know.. :)

I think that's a little biased on your experiences. I have had almost nothing but trouble with the M42's. my M20's have never let me down.

But then again I do maintenance on my cars at the right time so my timing belt doesn't just snap.

+not to many problems with the PRO3 group ether and they are under full racing conditions. I think it is your driving style or you just expect an M20 to take your shit without adjusting the valves or changing the belt. Can't really blame the engine for that...

[xwill112x]

oh i forgot about the self adjusting valves the m42 has as well..

and i'll give it to you, m20's are tanks, and will run forever, but are definitly not a high revving engine from the factory.

[ArmyBimmer]

But back to the original question, im in the same boat as the op and looking for something with a lot of torque due to old bad habits... (former muscle car guy) im trying to learn how to go around corners and work on German cars. Also college student, but with a decent amount of tools and some experience on older cars, just not BMWs. I restored both a 1975 Porsche 914-4 and a 1963 MG b in High school... well actually never finished the MG that was a pain of a car