1991 BMW 320i Cabriolet (E30) Manual

Highlights

• Very well presented

• Full respray carried out in 2018

• Original interior

• Just 4 previous keepers in 34 years

• Original service book with 13 stamps

Overview

As you probably know, the BMW 320i Cabriolet is part of the iconic E30 generation. It offers a blend of open-air driving and classic BMW styling and performance. The 2.0-litre M20 inline-six engine produces a healthy 129bhp and could be specified with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, with this particular car being the desirable five-speed manual. Its precise steering, well-tuned suspension, and rear-wheel-drive layout make for an engaging driving experience.

With its timeless design, signature kidney grilles, and round headlights, the 320i Cabriolet had a refined yet sporty appeal. The driver-focused dashboard, comfortable sports seats, and quality materials made the 320i a lovely place to be, made even more special when you dropped the convertible roof. Balancing performance and everyday usability, it remains a sought-after classic among BMW enthusiasts.

This example looks to be in lovely condition and looks very smart, roof up or down. Recent mechanical work, including a new head gasket, valves, and clutch slave cylinder, provide reassurance for its next owner. The car presents well inside and out, featuring the factory ‘Bottle Top’ alloy wheels, a new fabric roof, and a clean, well-maintained interior. We absolutely love it.

History and Documentation

• UK registered on 4th November 1991

• V5C is present and in the owner’s name

• 4 previous keepers

• Two key sets

• The original service manual shows 13 stamps

• Some previous invoices are included for work carried out and parts purchased

• The invoice for the full respray in 2018 totalled £2,850

• Servicing was carried out at the following intervals: Apr 1992 @ 3,887 miles, Jun 1993 @ 14,044 miles, Aug 1994 @ 19,121 miles, May 1995 @ 26,680 miles, May 1995 @ 90,115 miles, Jun 1996 @ 33,865 miles, Jun 1997 @ 46,066 miles, Sep 1999 @ 65,155 miles, Nov 2000 @ 67,758 miles, May 2002 @ 77,559 miles, Jan 2003 @ 82,117 miles, Jul 2004 @ 86,430 miles, May 2005 @ 90,115 miles

• The current mileage is 119,301 miles

• The MOT is valid until 15th August 2025

• Last MOT passed with no advisories

• HPI clear

Interior

• Finished with Anthracite Überkaro fabric trim

• The original sports seats are in excellent condition, with just a small amount of wear to the driver’s bolster

• The rear seat is in excellent condition

• Both door cards and quarter panels are free from damage

• The leather steering wheel is in good order, with just a few minor age-related signs of wear

• No scuffs or damage were noted on the dashboard

• The instruments are working correctly, and the odometer shows a reading of 119,301 miles

• No warning lights were displayed when the car was running

• Sony face-off radio cassette head unit

• All of the switchgear appears to be in good condition and is reported to be working correctly

• Clifford alarm system

• Grey carpets in the cabin present well

• Warning triangle and spare wheel present

• One for the purists - the original tool kit has tools inside!

• Inside the boot is clean and tidy

Exterior

• Finished in the stunning Brilliant Red

• The paintwork is very well presented thanks to the full respray in 2018

• Looking around the car, the panel gaps look to be equal

• No dings or dents were spotted

• The headlights, fog lights, and indicators are in good order with no lens damage

• All of the windows appear in good order with no noticeable scratches

• A new fabric roof has been fitted and is in excellent condition

• The rear light lenses are free from any splits or cracks

• The 320i and BMW badges both have a bright finish

• 14-inch factory ‘Bottle Top’ alloy wheels

• The wheels have a few very minor marks, but nothing excessive

• A matching set of tyres is fitted and has plenty of tread remaining

• The underside presents well

Mechanical

• 2.0-litre straight-six M20 engine

• Rated at 129bhp

• Desirable five-speed manual gearbox

• The BMW fires up without hesitation and runs with no issues reported by the vendor

• The vendor says new valves, seals, head gasket, clutch slave cylinder, and a Lambda sensor were fitted in 2024

• New exhaust rear silencer fitted in 2018

• The gearbox has a smooth change, and the inline-six pulls well through the range

• No knocks or bangs have been reported from the suspension

• The brakes bring the car to a stop in a straight line with no juddering through the pedal

Summary

This 1991 BMW 320i Cabriolet is a well-preserved E30 with a five-speed manual gearbox and a smooth 2.0-litre straight-six engine. Finished in Brilliant Red with a full respray in 2018, it retains its original interior and has had just four previous keepers in 34 years. With a strong service history, 13 stamps in the original book, and an MOT valid until August 2025, it appears to have been well cared for.

A desirable and classic open-top BMW, this 320i Cabriolet is a fantastic choice for collectors and enthusiasts looking for a car from this era.

To arrange a viewing, click the ‘Book Viewing’ button located under the ‘Place Bid’ button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to ‘Contact Seller’ for further enquiries. This seller is located in Birmingham.