new member

[968Reckless]

Ok so i've been looking at the forum for a couple of weeks now but just decided to register. Currently I don't have an e30 but I have the opportunity to get an '85 for a good price. I know this isn't the most sought after year but it's a deal I can't pass up.

So with being said I have read plenty of threads about the good old "bumper tuck"... I should have no problem doing this but I still think it kinda looks ugly. I have tried to research about "bumper swaps" but Im a little confused. I have seen people used the term "pre-face lift or face lift" not sure what that means.

My main question is can you get rid of the diving boards completely and replace them with a newer body style bumper, such as the '89? If so where can I get the OEM parts...I know that aftermarket body kits are junk. I like the look of the M-Tech and would like to go that route. What other bumper are acceptable to use that aren't shitty aftermarket?

[968Reckless]

Oh and I know this topic has probably been covered a million times but after reading all of the threads I am more confused then ever. So i'm looking for help from the e30 gurus.

[funcrew]

Welcome to our little disfunctional community. Don't take any of the crap personally unless you are being an ass. Your '85 is an early model. So either leave the diving boards alone (tucking looks moronic) or convert it to euro bumpers, which are expensive but awesome. That said, there are lots of options and opinions vary. Read this:

http://www.r3vlimited.com/board/showthread.php?p=3718224#post3718224

Do lots of reading and using the search function, and only start new threads when you've tried finding the information a couple different ways. And as soon as you buy one, post it up in the member's rides section.

[Pdxseth]

You can use late model bumpers but it's a bit of work.

For the front you need the valnce, bumper and brackets from a late model car. It all bolts up you just have to cut the tow hook.

For the rear you need the bumper and brackets. You have to slot the holes in the car to mount it. Then trim the bumper down where it meets the wheel arch and cut a section out of the bumper trim, then use fiberglass to put it back together. The back is a pain.

Here's mine I'm still working on the rear but the fronts done. This is an 85 325 with a 91 318is front end

Here's before

[968Reckless]

Thank you pdxseth. Your information was helpful...I don't mind the work and I have no problem modifying my existing frame/bumper. Im curious as to where I can get the parts from? Obviously from another car or junkyard but is there a website or dealership that I can get reasonable OEM parts from?

[968Reckless]

I have read the bumper thread...all 20 something pages but most of the pics won't load. What is the difference between the M-tech 1 and 2 and what make euro bumpers different (besides the obvious reflector deletes). Also what E30's came stock with M-tech kits?

[Pdxseth]

Mt1 is early model mt2 is late model.

Euro bumpers aren't huge and ugly like the us spec diving boards

[Pdxseth]

Keep your eyes open for part outs in your area us plastic bumpers go for around 100-200$ I was lucky enough to get a parts car for 400$

[968Reckless]

Mt1 is early model mt2 is late model.

Euro bumpers aren't huge and ugly like the us spec diving boards

ohh alright that makes sense. Not used to this many options for bumpers.

[968Reckless]

So this is considered the valence?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-E30-Plastic-Front-Bumper-w-Lower-Valance-Foglights-1988-1993-OEM-USED-/321117638436?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Make%3ABMW&hash=item4ac41a4f24&vxp=mtr

I would still need bumper and brackets?

[shameson]

If its exactly as pictured, that comes with lower valence and front bumper. You need late model front/rear bumper shocks too. They are much smaller on the later cars

[evandael]

focus more on not having the car run and drive like ass then bumper swapping it.

FWIW, the front is a direct swap. you need the late-model 89+ bumper shocks, support, bumper, and valance. the rear requires more work, as in trimming and cutting down/fiberglassing/painting the rear bumper. but same as the front, you need the 89+ bumper shocks and support.

or, find euro bumpers. +1

or, be proud of the diving boards. +2

[968Reckless]

focus more on not having the car run and drive like ass then bumper swapping it.

FWIW, the front is a direct swap. you need the late-model 89+ bumper shocks, support, bumper, and valance. the rear requires more work, as in trimming and cutting down/fiberglassing/painting the rear bumper. but same as the front, you need the 89+ bumper shocks and support.

or, find euro bumpers. +1

or, be proud of the diving boards. +2

Car runs great, no rust, several new stock parts. Can you show me an example of a euro bumper and is there no place to buy these bumper parts new? As far as fiberglass and paint goes it should not be a problem for me.

[blunttech]

Get the car and drive it a month or so and get to know it before you start spending loot. Do the maintenance first obviously but get to know these cars and then start making decisions on which way you want to go. Youll be doing it twice if you dont.

[968Reckless]

Get the car and drive it a month or so and get to know it before you start spending loot. Do the maintenance first obviously but get to know these cars and then start making decisions on which way you want to go. Youll be doing it twice if you dont.

I'm not trying to make any quick decision...not my first car. All I want to know is the difference in bumper options. Trying to do my research so I can be familiar when I see these cars in person and for when I start to mod it.