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  Dec. 15, 2010 9:17 a.m. Boogalou New Reader

  I'm going to check out a 1992 325I with 98,000 miles on it and what looks to be a decent body and a recently changed water pump and timing belt, according to the owner. Is there anything I should specifically look for on this car since it's a convertible? I'm almost done with my Z31 project so looking for another project while using it as a part-time DD.

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  Dec. 15, 2010 9:31 a.m. jrw1621 SuperDork

  Here are few things I learned here from the smart people of GRM when shopping for my e30. Those same smart people will likely chime in but here is my version.

  The vehicles have suspension sub assembelies. Where these meet the main underbody of the car the attachments point are common for rust, resulting in weakness. Failure at this point results in the need for welding and underbody patchwork.
  These failures are not limited to just cars that show rust body panels. It is wise to get the car on a rack for underbody inspection.

  
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  Dec. 15, 2010 11:51 a.m. ansonivan HalfDork

  If it's a bargain, like sub $1500 with no glaring problems, just buy it. If it's a more expensive car take it to a bmw specific indy shop for a pre purchase inspection. You will miss things that an experienced mechanic will notice.

  Also, add your location to your profile, that way someone local to you may be able to recommend a shop. Yes the black helicopters will now find you.

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  Dec. 15, 2010 2:42 p.m. pigeon Dork

  If it's a 92 wouldn't it be an E36?

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  Dec. 15, 2010 2:44 p.m. DukeOfUndersteer SuperDork

  the 92 verts were still E30s as the coupes and sedans were E36s

  We are flashin trannys... wait that came out wrong

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  Dec. 15, 2010 2:45 p.m. 2002maniac HalfDork

  Not if it's a convertible.

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  Dec. 15, 2010 2:50 p.m. mtn SuperDork

  Boogalou wrote: Is there anything I should specifically look for on this car since it's a convertible? I'm almost done with my Z31 project so looking for another project while using it as a part-time DD.

  Look at the condition of the top. Look at the rubber around the windows, make sure the windows are in line. Mine are not quite lined up right, but its not a problem because it still doesn't leak and most of the time the windows and top are down.
  The good news is that from what I remember when we were purchasing ours, the tops are not ridiculously expensive.

  I'd suggest NOT driving it ever from November-March unless it is a really warm, dry day without salt, but it is definitely the most enjoyable DD car in the summer if you cannot swing a Miata/other two seater.

  Anytime somebody tells you that vodka mixes well with anything, slide them a jar of mayonnaise and tell them to practice what they preach.

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  Dec. 15, 2010 4:15 p.m. pigeon Dork

  Oops, I missed the convertable part

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  Dec. 16, 2010 9:47 a.m. Boogalou New Reader

  Thanks for the info. Hopefully, I'll get a chance to look at the car tomorrow.

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  Dec. 18, 2010 8:25 a.m. Boogalou New Reader

  Looked at the car yesterday.

  Good - Just about everything works inside, engine idles nicely, no weird noises or clunking from the powertrain. Looks like it's been maintained well, owner has receipts for timing belt, water pump, radiator was replaced a few years ago. Inspection done by BMW dealer. A few things don't work but they are all minor.

  Bad - rust and bulged metal at the flat black rocker panels at 3 of the jackpoints. Also a hole at rear quarter panel in front of the wheel well. The rest of the body looks fine and the convertible top is in great shape.

  The owner said the car came from Florida and was owned by his former boss. I would say the car has been well maintained except for improper? use of the jackpoints? I'm assuming that this was a design problem for all E30's based on some internet research I did?

  I like the car, it fits my 6'6" frame very nice, and I enjoyed driving it, but the rust issue scares me, since I wonder what rust there is I can't see. Are the jackpoint/rocker panels replaceable?

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  Dec. 18, 2010 3:04 p.m. Kiponator New Reader

  Life is too short to own a rusty car. Unless you just buy it and drive it and ignore the rust. Which generally isn't a great long-term plan.

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