E30 or E36 325i?

[ric p]

I'm looking for a E30 325i Sport currently but see that for not a lot more I could get an E36 325i coupe. The E30 Sport is rarer but ultimately which is the better car in everyones opinion. The E36 being a newer design. I currently have a E36 323i Touring and know that they take the miles but am looking for the most smiles per miles.

[germancarfan]

They are very different cars to drive the E36 while undoubtedly faster doesnt have quite the same raw feeling as the E30. I had the choice between both and went for an E30 325i Sport Phase 2 for my 100 mile a day commute and have not regretted it one iota.

Its all down to what one prefers go out and drive both and see which hits the spot for you.

[germancarfan]

I guess I should also say that one thing that may spoil the E30 for you is its painfully slow steering which certainly takes some getting used to.

[mrflibbles]

germancarfan said:

I guess I should also say that one thing that may spoil the E30 for you is its painfully slow steering which certainly takes some getting used to.

However, an e36 rack conversion is very cheap and and easy - as is a z3 gearshift conversion which shortens the ridiculously long gearshift movement.

For the price I guess you'd be looking at a late e30 or an early e36. Both will probably have a lot of miles, but it isnt really a problem if they have FSH.

Personally, I think the e30 looks far better than the e36, much more of a classic design.

Get one with the best bodywork you can, M tech kits are very expensive to replace.

In conclusion, get an E30!!!

But i'm biased!

More info can be found here

[germancarfan]

I find the gearbox in the sport to be really nice once one is used to the slightly odd ratios used.

[chriso]

Hello all - first submission!

I'd personally go for the E36 - IMHO it's a better all rounder. Whilst it may not be as 'pure' a car as the E30, as a daily driver the E36 is more refined.
In reality, you can't lose out with either.