1989 BMW 325i

Description

Do you remember when these BMW convertibles were the ultimate status symbol? Relive those days with this very clean 1989 BMW 325i convertible, which proves why these cars have such enduring appeal. Entertaining to drive, economical to own, and still very much an A-lister, this bright red ragtop allows you to live the dream at a fraction of the original cost.

There are plenty of BMW fans who will argue that the best BMWs are shaped like boxes. When the company was focusing on the actual dynamics of driving, cars like this 325i convertible were unquestionably the enthusiast's choice for open-air motoring. And with excellent care over the past 29 years (has it been that long already?), this one still looks ready to play. The bright red paint is vivid and shiny, proving that paying more for a car really did get you more. Fit and finish are typical Teutonic quality and someone spent a lot of Saturday afternoons keeping it in top condition. Yes, it shows some normal wear from driving and some signs of age, but at this price, you're going to be very pleased with how it looks. It's as instantly recognizable as, say, a Mercedes SL of the same vintage and the BMW roundel hood ornament still means something. No modifications, no alterations, just a very clean car that still turns heads years later.

The tan leather interior is shockingly nice, particularly for a vintage convertible. The seats show very little wear and just some comfort marks on the lower cushions, but no signs of UV damage or dryness. How'd they manage that? You also get carpets that seem to defy the years and door panels that still look tidy and crisp. All the original gauges are big and easy to see, making us long for the days when cars weren't filled with electronic gimmicks and needless distractions from the serious business of driving. The original stereo is still there and still working, and the rest of the controls are simple and easy to use. Even the trip computer is still operational, a fun thing to play with when you're stopped at red lights. The back seat looks almost completely unused and the hard tonneau makes for a neat place to stash the black canvas convertible top. This convertible even offers a good-sized trunk that's quite usable, making this car a great candidate for your next road trip.

BMW's 2.5 liter inline-six is justifiably famous, as its turbine-smooth road manners and flat torque curve make it a great partner for the sporty convertible. It has also proven itself to be virtually bulletproof with proper maintenance, meaning that you can enjoy this one without worries. It's quite original under the hood, and while it's not detailed for show or anything like that, you'll be pleased by how simple and robust the hardware is, making it easy to service today. Parts availability for these cars is quite good and you shouldn't be afraid of the cost of ownership, as these are quite reliable machines. Backed by a 5-speed manual transmission, the 325i is a wonderful touring car that's just a joy to row through the gears. The ride is agile but supple, the brakes are powerful, and the engine note goes from barely audible at idle to a wonderful tenor wail at full tilt. Familiar BMW alloy wheels give it an upscale look and they're wrapped in recent 195/65/14 Michelin radials.

This car looks like a million bucks but we won't tell your friends and neighbors just how affordable it really is. Call today!