1989 BMW E30 325IS

MODEL OVERVIEW:

The BMW E30 325is was a special M Division performance-tuned version of the second-generation 3 Series, equipped with the 2.5-litre M20 inline-six, M sport suspension, limited-slip differential, M Sports interior and M-Technic body upgrades with strong chassis balance and driver appeal. In Australia, the E30 gained further fame through the iconic John Player Special (JPS) BMW Team, run by Frank Gardner, whose black-and-gold liveried cars became synonymous with Group A touring car success. As the M3 development program, the JPS-liveried Group A 325is driven by Tony Longhurst, embody the model’s dual legacy as both a road-going driver’s car and a touring car giant-killer on Australian circuits.

AUCTION CAR:

On offer is an Australian-delivered 1989 BMW 325is Coupe, a rare and highly sought-after model that represents the pinnacle of the Australian E30 range. Finished in factory Diamant-Schwarz metallic, this example presents cleanly throughout and is accompanied by its BMW build sheet and options data card verifying its M Sport authenticity. Showing an indicated 129,627 kilometres and presented in very clean condition, this 325is has all the coveted factory options and performance enhancements that define the ‘is’ model E30 as a true collector piece.

DRIVE-LINE:

Powering the 325is is BMW’s revered 2.5-litre M20 inline-six, delivering 170 hp in standard tune and paired with the precise, factory-fitted Getrag 260 five-speed manual gearbox. True to its “is” specification, this example features the factory 188 mm limited-slip differential with a 3.73:1 ratio centre—identifiable by the prominent “S” stamp on the casing. The factory 704 M Sports Suspension package brings Bilstein dampers, firmer springs, and thicker sway bars, sharpening the chassis response while preserving BMW’s hallmark balance between comfort and handling precision. Minor upgrades, including a full dual-exhaust system and new coil springs, subtly enhance performance. With power steering and four-wheel disc brakes completing the setup, this 325is is a beautifully engineered, driver-focused sports coupe.

EXTERIOR:

Presented in Diamond Schwartz, the factory M-Technic bodywork and paintwork presents very clean, with the understated aggression that made the E30 coupe such an enduring shape. Factory option 339 Shadowline exterior trim replaces the chrome with black detailing, accentuating the coupe’s purposeful stance. While originally specified with 15-inch BBS cross-spoke alloys, this example now sits on tasteful 17-inch BBS-style mesh wheels, further enhancing its road presence without losing period character. The exterior equipment list also includes an electric lift-and-slide sunroof, completing a desirable combination of features.

INTERIOR:

The cockpit is fitted with factory 481 Sports Seats, offering excellent bolstering and comfort. Option 708 confirms the presence of the three-spoke M Sport leather steering wheel, a signature touch for the “is” model. Air conditioning, electric front windows, and reading lights (option 562) enhance everyday usability, while radio preparation and rear seat trim are noted in the build specification. The cabin retains its correct BMW ergonomics, with clear sports instrumentation in a driver-focused layout that made the E30 legendary among enthusiasts.

SUMMARY:

Built specifically for the Australian market in this specification, this 1989 BMW 325is Coupe stands as one of the rarest and most desirable RHD E30 variants. With its factory M Sport Suspension, M-Technic Body. Shadowline trim, M Sport Seats and Steering wheel, together with its factory LSD, it combines performance and style in a way that defined BMW’s “Ultimate Driving Machine” ethos.

Presented in clean condition, it represents an opportunity to secure a genuine E30 325is — a car that continues to rise in significance among BMW enthusiasts for good reason.

Chassis: WBAAA120803580372

Engine: 7992022

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Inspections Open:

• Inspection is advised and welcomed at our Showroom.
• Inspection times: Monday – Friday 10:00 am – 4:30 pm & Saturday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Professional inspections are advised and welcomed by appointment.

Contact Us:

• Please contact us with any questions on (03) 9580 7369 or email: [email protected]

Buyers Premium & Payment:

• Buyers Premium is 8.8% of Winning Bid Amount. (GST Inc.) Debited from Auction Winners Bank Card as deposit.
  Example: $50,000 Winning Bid + Buyers Premium $4,400 (8.8%) = $54,400 AUD Total Amount.
• The Winning Bidder will be sent an Invoice to be paid within 5 Days. Payment is by EFT Bank Transfer.
• All Vehicles must be collected within 7 days of the Auction close, unless otherwise agreed.

How to Bid:

• Register & become a Verified Bidder. Follow these easy Steps on the – BUY – page!
• Bids must be at least $250 higher than the current bid.
• When placing a Bid, do not use a ‘comma mark’. (Example $10000 equals $10,000)
• If Reserve Price is Met, a yellow banner will say “Reserve Met” on the Lot Auction Page.
• Auction will extend by another 2 Minutes, if a bid is placed within 2 minutes of Auction End.
• If the Reserve Price is not met, the highest bidder has first right to negotiate purchase.

Transport:

Estimate costs for Enclosed Transport from Chicane Auctions Melbourne Showroom to:

• SYDNEY – $1,600+*
• COFFS HARBOUR – $2,000+*
• BRISBANE – $3,000+*
• ADELAIDE – $1,600+*
• PERTH – $4,500+*

*Prices are indicative estimates, pending final delivery address.

Chicane supply the winner with a list of trusted Classic Car Transport companies. The buyer is responsible for arranging with transport company & all costs.

Conditions of Sale:

• VEHICLE INFORMATION AND CONTRACT OF SALE:
  All information provided regarding each vehicle has been supplied by the Vendor. Chicane Classic Cars Pty Ltd acts solely as an agent and does not warrant the accuracy of this information. The contract of sale is strictly between the buyer and the seller.
• VEHICLE INSPECTION AND VERIFICATION:
  Bidders are strongly encouraged to personally inspect each vehicle at our showroom to verify its condition, description, and authenticity. Alternatively, bidders may arrange for an independent professional inspection prior to placing any bids.
• VEHICLE REVIEW:
  Chicane Classic Cars Auctions conducts internal reviews to determine the suitability of vehicles for auction. These reviews are not undertaken by qualified inspectors, mechanics, or engineers. Any commentary or opinion provided regarding a vehicle’s condition is subjective and should not be relied upon as a professional assessment.
• CLASSIC CARS DISCLAIMER:
  Classic vehicles inherently carry many flaws and imperfections, some of which may not be readily apparent. Vehicles older than 25 years may have and usually have inaccurate odometer readings. Odometer readings are Not Verified for correctness. Bidders are strongly advised to conduct a comprehensive mechanical inspection and service prior to buying or operating any classic vehicle.
• DESCRIPTION ACCURACY AND RESPONSIBILITY:
  While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of vehicle descriptions provided in catalogues or at auction, Chicane Classic Cars Pty Ltd and its agents accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the condition, authenticity, and suitability of any vehicle prior to bidding.
• DISPUTES BETWEEN BUYER AND SELLER:
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• INDEMNITY AND RELEASE:
  By registering and bidding under these terms and conditions, the buyer irrevocably releases Chicane Classic Cars Pty Ltd, its auctioneers, and agents from any claim, demand, or legal action arising in relation to the Lot. The buyer further agrees to fully indemnify Chicane Classic Cars Pty Ltd against any and all liability, costs, or expenses incurred in relation to such claims, on a full indemnity basis. Participation in the auction constitutes acceptance of these terms and conditions.

• All cars are checked on the Personal Property Securities Register – PPSR, and are sold without finance owing or appear on the Written Off Vehicle Register. GST will not be added to, or included in, the final bid price of this item. GST is only included in the buyers premium.

• Items are sold as is where is, without warranty or registration, sold with any and/or all faults, under VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT Auction Guidelines – CLICK HERE TO VIEW.

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