1987 BMW E30 325IX

WHO SAID FOUR-PAW ACTION IS ALL ABOUT AUDI AND SUBARU?

BY THE TIME the three series rolled off the production line in May 1975 BMW’s Motorsport credentials were well established thanks to the success of the 2002 model on both bitumen and dirt.

While the M3 immediately springs to mind, BMW bred another winner for off-road events, the 325IX made from 1986 to 1991.

Based on the E30 series the 325IX was the first Three Series to have an all-wheel drive system flung under its two-door body. It wasn’t a mainstream model so production wasn’t extensive and most were sent around Europe and to the States.

However Pennant Hills Auto Traders has one, a two-owner right-hand-drive version that is believed to be one of just two in Australia, making it a very rare and desirable modern classic.

Resplendent in silver it also wears the signature BMW Motorsport striping over it.

Powering the 325IX is a recently refreshed, punchy, 2.7-litre straight six, pushing out a substantial 160 kilowatts; between it and the all-wheel drive is a five-speed manual gearbox, also refreshed.

From the photo it appears in splendid nick making it hard to believe it has been used as a rally car. It can be driven on historic plates and with its certified roll cage and race seats it is all setup and ready to tackle events like the Targa Tassy. You’d be hard pressed to find something more entertaining to drive on those great roads.