This 1987 BMW 325is coupe has been a Southern California resident until its recent acquisition by the seller in 2023, when it was relocated to the Bay Area.
**Exterior and Modifications**
Originally finished in Alpine White (146), the two-door bodywork has been repainted in the same shade. The car has been tastefully modified with European-style front and rear bumpers, a Euro front fascia, amber fog lights, rear window tinting, and a Jimmy Hill-style front lip. Additional exterior features include a power-operated sunroof, a rear spoiler (repainted in 2019), dual side mirrors, and quad headlights. Note that the retractable antenna sometimes does not fully retract.
**Suspension and Steering**
This E30 has been upgraded with E30 M3 front springs and control arm bushings, paired with an E36-specification steering rack for improved handling. In 2024, Bilstein B8 dampers were installed, enhancing the ride quality further.
**Wheels and Tires**
The car rides on 14″ basketweave alloy wheels wrapped in 195/60 Falken Azenis tires, installed under previous ownership. A spare basketweave wheel, mounted with a Michelin tire, is stowed in the trunk.
**Interior**
Inside, the front sport seats and rear bench have been refurbished with black vinyl featuring patterned cloth inserts and replacement padding. The cabin is equipped with a shift knob bearing the Heritage roundel, an onboard computer, a BMW Alpine CM5907 cassette stereo, a rebuilt Blaupunkt 40w amplifier, and cruise control. A Cantalope Bluetooth module has been integrated, along with additional sound insulation and Focal front speakers.
However, some interior issues persist: the forward and rear stereo adjustments are scratchy, the overhead interior lights are inoperative, the air conditioning is non-functional, and part of the onboard computer backlighting does not work. The M-Technic II steering wheel frames a 150-mph speedometer, tachometer, and auxiliary gauges for coolant temperature and fuel level. The dashboard has developed cracks on the top, which have been covered with a dashboard cap.
**Mechanical and Engine**
Powered by a 2.5-liter M20B25 inline-six engine featuring fuel injection, this coupe is accompanied by a five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. In 2024, extensive maintenance and repairs were completed, including fluid changes and resealing the front portion of the engine. The timing belt, oil pan gasket, water pump, fan clutch, valve cover gasket, engine mounts, hood struts, coolant hoses, heater valve, and rocker shaft plugs were all replaced. The transmission shift shaft seal, shifter bushings, and rear subframe mounts were also renewed. A Weichers front strut tower brace spans the engine bay.
Aftermarket rear stainless-steel exhaust components have been installed, contributing to both performance and durability.
**Condition and History**
This E30 coupe shows 220,000 miles, with approximately 2,000 miles added by the current owner. The rear spoiler was repainted in 2019, and the sunroof mechanism was lubricated in 2024. Noted flaws include a crack in the left taillight lens, fogging at the edges of the front glass, and scuffed paint on the right-front wheel arch. The windshield washer fluid reservoir float requires replacement.
The car most recently passed a California emissions inspection in July 2025, and the oil was changed in preparation for sale.
**Documentation**
Included with the sale are the owner’s manual, relevant service records, a clean Carfax report, and a clean California title in the seller’s name. The Carfax report confirms no accidents or other damage, with the entire history documented in California.
This well-maintained and thoughtfully modified BMW 325is offers a compelling combination of classic styling, performance, and upgrades — an excellent driver-quality example for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1987-bmw-325is-156/
