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Feature Listing: 1989 BMW 325ix

When it rains, it pours. The BMW E30 325ix was not a huge seller during its lifetime and of course fewer examples exists today. Over 2.3 million E30s were produced, of which less than 30,000 had the “ix” suffix on their decklid. We’ve seen several clean examples over the last two weeks, both in sedan and coupe form. This 1989 325ix sedan comes to us from our reader Mike. This was originally an automatic car but received a 5-speed manual swap. For a car with just over 170,000 miles, it is a real minter and wears its original paint. This is one you surely won’t miss as it tears its way through the snow drifts.

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1989 BMW 325ix on Craigslist Omaha

Year: 1989
Model: 325ix
Engine: 2.5 liter inline-6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 170,000 mi
Price: $7,000

I hate to do it but putting out feelers for my amazing Bimmer. This a no rust (very rare) all wheel drive example of the increasingly collectible E30 sedan. Car was originally an automatic transmission but the previous owner swapped a 5-speed manual with an M-shifter that is flawless. Absolutely zero issues with the transmission.

Interior is super clean with beige leather Recaro sport seats with seat heaters that keep things toasty. No cracks in the dash and have some original looking floor mats (could be aftermarket, not sure.) Currently have a Pioneer head unit with bluetooth hands free capabilities but I also have the original radio which could be swapped back in.

As I said, no rust. There are a couple of dents, one on the drivers door which doesn’t affect the look but is noticeable. Paint is original and is in fair condition. Some chipping here and there but it didn’t bother me.

170k miles which will go up as it is my daily driver. The odometer gear wore out last summer but it was immediately replaced with a new kit so you don’t have to worry about it going out anymore. Mileage in between replacement was negligible.

I have owned the car for about a year and I love it and would like to keep it forever as I think the values are going up and it’s a real head turner however I have one too many cars that are 5 speed manuals so need to get into something with an automatic for family purposes.

I have had zero problems with the car under my ownership. Previous owner did most of the heavy lifting and I even have a box with spare parts that I received from him. His repairs all done within the last 1.5 years included:

Rebuilt the head and changed head gasket
New timing belt
New CV boots
Front drive shaft replaced with the manual swap
New Idle Control Valve
New Vacuum Hoses
New Throttle Position Switch
New Temperature Sensors

Bullet proof inline 6 cylinder engine. Only maintenance I have done is tightening up the hand brake, a standard oil change and I also lubed up the drive shaft spindle. The brake lining light comes on occasionally although could be a temperature thing as it will go on and off and only started when things got cold. I will probably address when it warms up if I still have the car. No noticeable brake issues though. Will be doing a fresh oil change within the next couple of weeks.

Here is a link to video of the car starting up.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2ZCUC2klQg

Car is a blast to drive and a beast in the snow. Current tires are all seasons in great condition but with dedicated snow tires this thing would be unstoppable. Has yellow vinyl headlight stickers for that Euro look but can be peeled off if necessary. Also, has 3-spoke M-Sport steering wheel.

As mentioned above I am looking to get into something with an automatic preferrably something German with a V8 so Merc E500, E420, Audi S6, S8, A8, etc or BMW 540 sedan or wagon. Would also consider Subaru Legacy GT. If you have a possible trade let me know. Not interested in trucks or SUVs.

Price is $8,000. Not in a rush to sell. There are zero 4 door 325iX for sale on eBay and pretty rare anywhere else in this condition. An absolute pleasure to drive. I will have to save my shifting fun for my 944 Turbo.

Call, text or email. Cash or trade. Will assist in shipping at buyers expense. Clean title in hand. Located in West Omaha but will have it downtown at work as well.

While the 5-speed manual gearbox is not original, I would wager it won’t affect the value of this car that much, as most people seeking an four-wheel drive E30 want the three pedal version. We just saw a 1989 325ix with a 4-speed automatic sell for $7,900. That example had just under 100,000 miles, but the condition of that car and the one we see here are nearly identical. Given the frenzy for other E30 models, this one is priced right and as 325ix supply dwindles further, I wouldn’t doubt a surge in value for these go anywhere E30s.

-Paul

3 Comments

  1. Fred
    Fred February 23, 2015

    Is there a difference driving an ix, is or just a regular i? I would love to get 4 door with sport seats with a 5sp…is that a unicorn?

  2. Brad
    Brad February 24, 2015

    The ix floormats are radical. Just the sort of touches German cars used to do so well.

  3. jeff
    jeff March 6, 2015

    i had one almost exactly like this, same color, 4 dr except orginal manual trans and black interior w/ non- sport seats. had to sell as i couldnt keep up with the maintenance. it was a big regret selling, but prob for the best. i still (last night in fact) dream about this very car. i am now thinking about how i can spin this into a good idea that my wife will agree to…

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