E30 325i Rag-Top

The problem has got worse, now that there are only 3 engine sizes. 1.5 ltr, 2.0 ltr and 3 ltr. Having only 3 models in each range would be a bit thin. Kw would be a pain, as the models would change so often (with TUD etc.) and I would say even more confusing.

I'll type this slowly so you can follow...40 does NOT mean 3 litre, it means an engine with a power output EQUIVALENT to a 4.0 ltr engine. And as such, it is more powerful than a 35i which is more powerful than a 30i even though they all have the same capacity. Purely and simply it is a way of showing "my one is bigger than yours", yes it is marketing spin and I am so very sorry if trying to explain the system behind it has offended your sensibilities. The last two digits = the engine size has not been the rule since the E28 525e but some people still think it is the case.

NZTA data only has overall colour, in this case blue, which would also show all other shades of blue of which I would take it there were a few. So sorry can't narrow it down to Topaz M3s

Suddenly thought about this thread the other day, when I remembered something that you probably know, but needs saying just in case. The car you put them on needs to have a tyre-pressure monitoring system of some sort to inform you if a tyre loses pressure (as you won't notice otherwise). Driving too long / too fast on a run-flat will result in a big blow out. FWIW, I have had a sudden loss of pressure with both types of tyre. The run flat I noticed a slight sluggishness to the steering, just as the warning came on the dash. The normal tyre I was pointing backwards down the motorway before I had time to blink, how I missed the barrier I'll never know. As a safety feature I find it well worth the slightly harsher ride.

It DOES start with an M, it's an M40i. Part of the M Performance sub-brand, same as the M135i, M235i and M50d. The issue is a bit confused in NZ due to the old M325i designation, which was a local NZ only thing, which people still remember. The last two digits refer to the "equivalent" engine size, so a 2.0 litre with a low level tune = 320i, a two litre with the medium tune is equivalent to a 2.5 litre = 325i and the highest level of tune is equivalent to a 3.0 litre = 330i. In this case the M40i is the 3ltr six cylinder with highest level of tune, same as the 340i and 440i.

Can see why people are struggling with this, it does take a bit to get your head around, but it's not that hard really! FWIW it is primarily driven by the Asian markets where bigger = better.

I did manage to get a replacement seal set a few years back, but yeah, it was only a few $$$s less than the whole slave in the end.

What's he bought now??

Unfortunately Paragon's tank didn't work out, wrong one. So still looking...

3 litre petrol drinks as much as the V8 for normal driving, would suggest would be even worse when towing.

Looking for a fuel tank from a face-lifted E30, with the larger fuel capacity and high-pressure in-tank pump. If it's still in a car, I'm more than willing to help pull it out. Closer to East Auckland the better. Have cash but can also trade E30 parts if needed...

Agree 100% with this, there are so many numpties out there it's unbelievable.Unfortunately holiday season brings them all out of their home cities, and onto the open road.

Seats from the E30 M3 Sport Evo (Evo 3 for short) were the Recaro SRD with the coverings specific to the Evo 3 interior. SRDs also were fitted to other performance cars and were available through the aftermarket. Some of these have found their way into M3s. Genuine Evo 3 seats with the correct coverings are worth a little more (sorry can't tell from photos if these are, the fact they were recovered would suggest not) but either way these are awesome seats that look period correct and fit great. Wish I had an E30 worthy of them...

Needs a price as per forum rules please Brent!

Pictures are necessary on for sale threads, as per forum rules.

How much are you looking to spend? I have an M20 flywheel and clutch, but was thinking of selling as kit with the box, etc. But might split for the right price.

Any details on the other black E30 M3 at the end of the clip?

I ended up with the same as you, 10mm spacers and a bit shaved off the bump on the caliper. Only just cleared as well..

Aw shucks, you didn't have to get me anything!!

In terms of.. Grip? Harshness? Noise? Lots of factors involved.I am running Potenza S001 with a 40 profile on the front and a 35 profile on the rear, and whilst I would agree they can be a bit noisy on the coarse chip I don't have an issue with how harsh they are. But then, I do like a firm ride. In terms of grip I have not found an issue and without trying to sound like Lewis Hamilton I would say they have been pushed harder than 80% of the tyres on road cars. Not sure if that helps Kyu, but they are Bridgestones, not sure where they sit in the range compared to the RE050s.

The tyre, and the sidewall in particular, is a part of the overall suspension system. If the shocks / springs / geometry are not designed for RFTs then it's not going to work well. I would only suggest putting the tyres on if everything else is set up to work with them.

You only posted it up on here a week ago! Bimmersport and NZ in General is not exactly overflowing with people ready to drop that amount if coin on a used car just before Christmas and the holidays. If you want to get your asking price be patient, if you need it gone quick advertise it better and think about price.

^^ What they said. Harness and proper seat for the passengers would be a good idea too, stop you banging your head against the windows - front and side!

Dickheads that use daytime running lamps instead of headlights at night. First, they are too bloody bright knob-end they are meant to be bright in the day, think how bright that makes them at night to other cars! Second, you have no lights on at the back of your car (or usually soft-roader!!), which makes you very hard to spot as you womble along.

Saw this at Hampton Downs yesterday, never seen it before. Well kitted out 135i, with an add-on 1M kit for the bigger arches. Half cage inside, with terra-trip and intercom gear, etc. so possibly set up as a Targa car? Looked bloody awesome in the sun!