1988 BMW E30 M3

This collectible 1988 BMW E30 M3 in the popular Diamond Schwarz metallic black was inspected for a client at USS Tokyo auction on 5 October 2017.

The auction had listed it as an April 1989 model based on the first registration date in Japan, but the actual build date from the VIN was 14 December 1988.

Graded 4 C with 124,535 km, it was actually in quite good condition for its age. Minor faults as pictured. Engine check light was on but engine was running well and everything appeared normal.

It was eligible for immediate import to Australia at the time and sold for 5,320,000 YEN FOB. Landed price would have been approx. $74,400 landed in Australia at the time (including LCT at 88 Yen to the dollar, plus approx. $1,000 allowance for compliance, plus tyres if required and on road costs).

This was relatively cheap compared to other sales in 2016 / 17, possibly due to few buyers realising the actual build date and the fact the auction had listed it as grey (which of course it wasn’t !).

Details below from the BMW VIN check:

VIN WBSAK010X02192179
Type Code 1001
E Series E30
Series 3
Type LIM
Steering LL
Doors 2
Engine S14
Displacement 2.30
Power 162
Drive HECK
Transmission MECH
Colour DIAMANTSCHWARZ METALLIC (181)
Upholstery (0203)
Prod. Date 1988-12-14

Vehicle options
S361A Vent window rear
S401A Lift-up-and-slide-back sunroof, electric
S410A Window lifts, electric, front
S415A Sun-blind, rear
S494A Seat heating driver/passenger
S498A Headrests, rear, mechanically adjustable
S500A Headlight wipe/wash/Intensive cleaning
S510A Headlight aim control
S530A Air conditioning
S551A On-board computer II with remote control
S650A Radio BMW Reverse
S681A Roof antenna
S690A Cassette holder

The pictures are typical of the information we provide prior to auction for each vehicle of interest, with any faults shown so you can clearly see the condition before we discuss whether to bid, and your budget.

Whether you’re looking for a 1988 BMW E30 M3 like this, or another year, make or model, we can find it for you in nice condition.

It is vital when sourcing your vehicle to use an agent that takes the time to physically check each vehicle and looks beyond the auction pictures and report to confirm condition. Some vehicles may have an unpleasant smoke or other odour, rust underneath, or other faults which are impossible to know without inspection.

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