Need some advice on buying an E30

[Nadem]

Hey guy's, I'm new here and was hoping I could get some help. I'm currently looking to buy for my first car and while looking I stumbled across a 1991 318i that fits perfectly in my price range. My problem is I need a good daily driver for an 18 year old going to college and I've found differing reports on the 318i's reliability. So my question is simple, what do you guys think?

Also somewhere down the line I will build it up just not immediately.

http://neworleans.craigslist.org/cto/4318298542.html

[adjmcloon]

Did you drive it yet? No engine bay shots so it's hard to tell. The paint looks terrible. I'm sure it needs more repairs than what he's indicating.

[Nadem]

Not yet, I'll be going by tomorrow maybe to look at it and drive it, that's what I'm worried about, I can't really afford to fix this up and pay what he wants. So I'm not sure if I should pass or what.

[rcsoundn1]

Price IMHO is a bit high. No flex in price is not for me

[einhander]

If you're not sure, better to pass.

Buy something that requires less work, save your money, and buy something when you're done with school.

[Nadem]

Okay, thanks for the help guys, I think I'll just pass on it and keep saving my money.

[E30 Wagen]

pass

e30s in your price range (or in general) aren't reliable like a Honda or Toyota will be, they just aren't. I just keep having bad experiences. My advice is to focus more on your studies and stay away from old, neglected German sedans.

[Nadem]

How much do you guys think I should save up before grabbing a solid e30?

[einhander]

$10k

Even solid cars need work.

[volvolover]

$10k

Even solid cars need work.

maybe for an s52 e30

[bddog]

The ad says that he owns four E30s'. He is probably selling his worst one. Kinda sounds like a dick. I say pass.

[lukeADE335i]

$10k

Even solid cars need work.

Prices must have really jumped in the US if a 318i is worth $10k even in immaculate / low mileage condition.

Still - the paint would be enough to put me off that car.

[jlevie]

Just about any E30 in your price range is going to need a couple of thou in parts to make it a reliable DD. Fortunately not all of that has to be done at once. The important stuff can be done over the first few months and the rest done in the following 12 months.

[Nadem]

Okay, well thanks for all the help guys, I'll just save up and wait to join the e30 club.

Sent from my LG-LS980 using Tapatalk

[GillesBigCowboy]

I'd comment, but I don't want to jinx any of my ladies.