FIVE TRIALs
We enjoy the BMW E30 3 Series and put it fully to the test
1 DailY DriViNG
There’s no reason not to use a Touring regularly, though it must be said that driving around town more often than not will result in low20s economy for the 325i. Assuming that this doesn’t put you off, visibility is good and a tight turning circle aids low-speed manoeuvres, as does the power-assisted steering. The rear seat cushions lift forward into the footwell allowing seat backs to be lowered to extend the load space further, too. All engines are long-lived so there’s no need to feel guilty about piling on the miles, though we’d recommend protecting the car’s nether regions with anti-rust treatment if you’re considering year-round use.
2 iN tHE sErViCE BaY
Engine bay access is good overall, so the home mechanic can attend to most maintenance requirements. We would recommend joining the BMW Car Club, which can assist with those odd jobs that may flummox you. With the exception of the earliest M10 engines and the twin-cam M42 (which are chain-driven), BMW recommends cambelt changes be carried out on its four- and six-cylinder engines every 36,000 miles or three years. Mercifully, replacement is inexpensive and relatively straightforward. Likewise, all engines have alloy cylinder heads, so it’s worth replacing the coolant when you change the oil and filters every year.
3 oN tHE sHoW CirCUit
The second-generation 3 Series has been recognised as a bona fide classic for a long time now, so expect to be ushered in to a classic event unless there’s a strict cut-off date. However, if you fancy bumping in to fellow E30 enthusiasts there are events we can recommend. The Ace Café is holding its next German Night on 2 March, while Beaulieu’s Simply BMW event is on 19 July. The BMW Car Club has yet to announce dates for its National Weekend (usually held at the British Motor Museum in August) but has a full calendar of regional meets to keep enthusiasts busy in the meantime.
4 tHE loNG WEEKEND
The 14-gallon fuel tank and high-20s cruising economy should ensure a range of more than 350 miles. What’s more, you’re unlikely to need a break between fuel stops because the front seats in particular are supremely comfortable. Travelling four or five up, those in the rear sit slightly higher, but there should still be ample headroom. Whether its suitcase or assorted camping clobber, you won’t need to worry about leaving stuff at home – and a roller blind conceals the load space from prying eyes. You can expect unruffled high-speed cruising with power on demand for motorway overtakes as and when required, too.
5 tHE B-roaD Blast
The 325i suits automatic transmission, but you’ll probably find yourself yearning for the close-ratio Getrag five-speed manual gearbox’s greater driver involvement on a quiet, twisty stretch of road, not for any notable gains in point-to-point performance. That said, the auto is incredibly intuitive and the way in which the 325i in particular feels positively glued to the road fools you into thinking that you’re driving a sports saloon – until, that is, you glance in to the rear view mirror and see the additional interior dimensions. In short, you can have a lot of fun on country roads regardless of which gearbox you’ve got.