The E30 was the second generation of BMW’s hugely successful ‘3 Series’ launched in 1982 as a replacement for the first generation ‘E21’ that had been in production since 1976. The E30 was an instant success and remains one of the most recognisable and revered motorcars ever created by the German manufacturer, with a production life spanning twelve years, concluding in 1994 with the introduction of the third generation 3 Series ‘E36’
Offered with a variety of engine configurations starting with the base model 316 and its four cylinder ‘M10’ 1600cc unit, to the flagship 325i with its powerful and robust ‘M20’ six cylinder unit, buyers had the choice of automatic and manual gearbox options with power delivered to the rear wheels on all models.
With exceptional handling, superb build quality and lightweight construction, it was no surprise that the E30 was also highly successful in motor racing thanks to its development by BMW Motorsport GmbH who created the first ‘M3’, one of the most successful and popular sports cars of all time.
This exceptional 325i Convertible was specified from new in UK RHD specification with desirable manual transmission, finished in Alpine White coachwork with Indigo Blue Leather sports seats and Navy Blue convertible roof, supplied by BMW main agents Fairfield of Essex and first registered on 1st August 1990
Acquired new as a company car by Lease Contracts on behalf of the original owner Mr S.G.Young who assigned his cherished registration ‘H1 SGY’ in November 1990, just four months after taking delivery.
This desirable registration remains on the car to the current day and a brief inspection of all the side windows shows this registration number etched into the glass, a popular 1980s anti-theft deterrent.
Maintained by Vines Of Gatwick and Derek Woodman Ltd for the first couple of years, the 325i was subsequently sold to the second and long-term owner via BMW main agents ‘Prestons’ on 18th December 1993. The comprehensive history file includes a copy of his purchase invoice and shows the car had covered 18,667 miles at the time
The 325i Convertible was clearly cherished and enjoyed remaining with the second owner for the following thirty-three years, accruing an additional 40,692 miles during his ownership, bringing the total mileage to 59,359 miles as of April 2026
The original service book and comprehensive history file accompanying the car document regular servicing throughout by main agents and marque specialists, supported by a near complete set of MoT certificates until the car was placed in dry storage in late 2010 at approximately 58,685 miles where it would remain for the following thirteen years
In March 2023 at 58,687 miles, the BMW removed from storage and benefitted from an extensive recommissioning programme at a cost of over £5500, invoices on file document the removal and rebuild of the fuel tank with new fuel pumps, gaskets and associated pipework. Further works included new cambelt, major service with all fluids replaced, new auxiliary belts, new distributor and rotor arm, new radiator, brake system rebuild with new discs, pads, wear sensors and new tires.
The BMW was sent to marque exponents BMR Performance in April 2026 for assessment, following its inspection BMR confirmed it was in remarkably original condition as expected with such low mileage and had remains in standard and unmodified configuration. The BMR inspection also confirmed the car retained all of its original suspension components and a complete a full rebuild of the suspension system was sanctioned with the fitment of new shock absorbers, new bump stops, new wishbones and bushes, new front track rod ends, lower arms and new steering rack.
Further work by BMR included new camshaft oil seals and new cambelt, new engine and differential mounts, new rear gearbox seals, new ABS sensors, full brake system service and replacement brake hoses plus various other jobs to ensure its reliability and safety.
In additional to the mechanical work outlined above, the BMW has also recently benefitted from professional paintwork enhancement and detailing to both the bodywork and interior, making one of the finest presented and great driving 325i Convertibles available today, the perfect modern classic for enjoyable roof down motoring
