Quick advice needed (1985 318)

Hey guys,

Need some quick advice on a 1985 318 2 door coupe. Came across an ad in the local paper for a 1985 BMW 318, white exterior/tan interior. Initially, he wanted $2500, but dropped the price $1000, since the clutch is going out. From the phone conversation, the car sounds like it's in good shape. The seller said the vehicle has around 146,XXX miles, and that everything works great. There's only a slight tear in one of the seats, and had some rust which was touched up some time ago.

Now my question is, what should I look for on this car? What were some of the problem areas for the E30 body style? Are there many problems with this 4 banger? If it turns out to be a decent car, I was going to offer him $1200 cash. Who knows???? Was going to head out there sometime this evening to check it out.

Dan

What do you want it for?

I'd be leery of the rust. "Touchup" doesn't fix rust - removing it completely does. At that age, a lot of stuff will need replacing if it hasn't been done.

Thanks Rgal for your input. By the time I arrived at the seller's house, the car was already gone.

Basically, I was looking for a project car to restore (and to keep me occupied)
Daniel

I'd pay that much for a solid-engined eta without structural rust and a clutch going, but it seems like a lot for an older 318 with some issues...