Description
The BMW 318is A GTi for grown-ups
What is it?
The E30-generation M3 is one of the best modern classic sports saloon cars you can buy, but with the prices as they are not everyone can justify owning one. If you want to have the M3 experience but don’t want to spend that sort of money, you’re in luck, because the 318is exists.
The E30 318iS enjoyed higher pecking-order status than the competition at the time, superior to the benchmark VW, the car by which all other GTi’s are judged.
Visual giveaways to the ‘iS’ apart from the badge, include model specific front air dam, black-satin window trim, a modest bootlid spoiler and lowered M-Technic suspension.
What’s it got?
This low mileage example is finished in immaculate Alpineweiss II paintwork, the Anthracite check cloth interior is spotless coming with sport seats, M-tech steering wheel, leather gear knob and gaiter, electric windows, electric sunroof and rear head rests. The boot area is very clean and houses a complete toolkit, BMW first aid kit, warning triangle and jack.
Further options include, catalytic converter delete, engine speed dependent power steering and therma insulated green glass.
The car sits purposefully on 14 “BBS Cross spoke alloy wheels with branded matching tyres, NB the original specified 14” steel wheels and extremely rare wheel trims are available upon request.
How does it drive?
The engine is BMW’s M42 the four cylinder 16-valve unit produces 136bhp at 6000rpm and 172Nm of torque at 4600rpm, performance figures of 0-62mph and top speed figures of 9.9 seconds and 126mph respectively are quoted.
Lauded when new for its lively engine mated to a five speed gearbox, reinforced stabiliser bars, uprated anti-roll bar and a firmer suspension, so many small details that worked in favour of the 318iS making for a delightful, precise handling car.
Why this one?
A collectable, immaculate BMW E30 318is with incredible provenance, a full set of keys, a complete history file and interesting MP ownership sets this example apart from the usual offering and as such, the car has been extremely well looked after regardless of cost. The full book pack includes all handbooks, guides and dealership literature as well as the service book containing the stamped entries.
In addition to the reams of service documents and receipts are the hard copy MOT’s and Houses of Parliament headed letters to the dealership.
