1991 BMW 318is

Description

Once simply considered an older BMW, the 318is Coupe has since transformed into a true cult classic. The E30 generation 3-Series has long held a  strong and devoted fan base all over the world, praising the sure-footed handling characteristics and well-balanced chassis creating the Ultimate Driving Machine. Among the multitude of sedans, coupes, convertibles, and even station wagons with sporting four and six-cylinder engines, the 318is remained the sleeper bargain allowing BMW fans of every stripe to find the perfect E30 match for them. As expected by those following the market, the one year only, 318is has been gaining in popularity in the past few years, especially when it's discovered by those doing their homework that it's the lightest E30 variant, 300 lb lighter than an M3!

RADwood Ready

RADwood is a festival that focuses on the culture and vehicles of the 1980s and 1990s. RADwood, and the “RADwood Era” are now commonly used to reference this period of bodacious automotive history. Hagerty took stewardship of RADwood in March of 2022 to build on the company’s purpose to save driving and car culture while expanding and supporting inspiring experiences for automotive enthusiasts.

Highlights

• The only year the 318is was available in the United States

• Cosmetic restoration in 2019 featuring a repaint with the doors, trim, and glass removed

• Interior trim and carpet were redyed in black

• Both axle halves and rear wheel bearings were replaced in 2020

• The drive shaft center support bearing and rear subframe mounts were replaced in 2019

• Equipped with a five-speed manual transmission

• Finished in Diamant-Schwarz Metallic over a black interior

• The original seats were replaced with aftermarket Corbeau seats, with the originals accompanying the car

• A roll bar has been installed, but it can be easily removed

• Visually enhanced gauge cluster with new odometer gears 

• The steering wheel was upgraded with one from MOMO, with the original steering wheel included

Features

• Upgraded sound system

• 1.8 liter M42 inline-four engine

• Manually operated tilting sunroof

• Air conditioning

• Fog lights

• Central locking 

• Anti-theft alarm

• Electric windows

• Outside temperature indicator

• Viper alarm system

Known Flaws

• The air conditioning compressor needs to be replaced

• Oil leak from oil pan gasket

• Recommended to change driveshaft u-joints

Included

• Two sets of wheels

• Spare differential 

• Additional spare parts

• Original front seats

• Stainless steel clutch line

• Parking brake shoes

• Driveshaft u-joints

• Two sets of keys

• Owner’s manual packet

Ownership History

The accompanying Carfax shows that this 318 began life in Falls Church, Virginia, before moving to Pennsylvania in late 2008. It would remain there until the seller purchased the car in Georgia in 2014, where it has remained during his nine years of ownership.