Skyrocketing E30 prices. Is it worth it anymore?

[ParsedOut]

Here's the deal. People who are enthusiasts that put a lot of time and money into their cars are starting to realize they can usually get a higher premium for their cars from like minded individuals. Then there are the people who have a clean "beamer" (*sigh*) and are willing to sell for a reasonable amount, those examples are getting far and few between. Lastly there are the beaters and project cars, that's where you find the majority of the cheap E30s nowadays. Basically buy a car from an enthusiast, pay premium, find a diamond by an uneducated seller (good luck) or pick up a beater/project for cheap all day long.

[blue plates]

You need to look around more. I was in the same boat a month ago and picked up a very clean eta for $2000.

[hopefule30owner]

A few years ago you could have picked up a very clean car for $3,000. Now even mediocre high mileage cars are listed at $5,000+. Would you tell your friends looking for a budget project to buy an E30? If not, what would you recommend?

I love the E30, but I'm leaning toward an E36 now.