What to choose manual e or auto i coupe?

[nando]

if you're paying a shop for stuff you probably shouldn't own an E30 - unless you're independently wealthy, then good for you! :)

But yeah, I'd pick the auto 325i and swap the trans to a manual.

[Rennsport]

I can do a full auto to manual swap in 4hrs. Expect a shop to charge you 6-8hrs minimum.
There's not a good enough reason to pull the engine out when swapping transmissions. Therefore, I'd choose the late model and do a trans swap. Much more straight forward than an engine swap.

[steelynorm]

How many hours of labor do u think a shop would charge for a tranny swap

[roguetoaster]

Depends on your work space setup. If you have a good garage, maybe a lift, but at least an engine hoist, you can easily swap the engine. However, if you only have limited work space/tools the trans swap is slightly easier. Although in either case I'd want to pull the engine+transmission out as one.

[ButtJuice]

If my options were limited, I’d opt for a late model 2 door and swap in a 5 speed.

[steelynorm]

I have been looking for a 325i coupe manual for awhile.
With the market shrinking for decent e30 325i coupes these days in a 5 speed.Potential e30 buyers are faced with dilemma, 325e manual or 325i autos.
I have a 325i manual sedan and enjoy driving it, I have not driven a 325i auto yet but have driven a few 325e manuals, it was ok. None of the cars were tight well sorted vehicles. I have been looking for a decent project car under 5 grand

What car would u choose?