1994 BMW 3-Series

318iC Convertible

1.8L 4 Cylinder Gasoline Fuel

Manual

WBABK5320REC82945

Rear Wheel Drive

Gasoline

Power Windows

This was the first year of the E36 convertible in the US. This car – a basic 318 with few options -- represents the simplest, lightest, essential reflection of the design in its convertible form. The car is completely stock, with the 1.8 liter 4-cylinder engine and 5-speed transmission. The stereo head unit has been upgraded and there is a six-cd changer mounted in the trunk as well, with a remote. It has leather seats and a tilt steering wheel but is otherwise a base car. The car has has had two long term northern CA owners from new, and has an exceptional Carfax history. The second owner (from whom I purchased the car) garaged it, maintained it meticulously, and used it only for pleasure/weekend driving. From the condition of the car, it’s clear that the same was true for the first owner. The car presents as if it were a very clean, well-maintained 1- or 2-year old model. The condition is honestly exceptional. The paint has a deep luster; there are virtually no dings. Everything is in the right place and the interior, as well as the exterior, show amazingly little wear. It’s a delight to drive. Ride is pliant and comfortable (due to the base suspension and wheels); handing is supple and fun. It feels almost vintage (in a positive way) relative to a modern BMW (particularly a souped up one with a sport package and/or run flat tires). It has none of the harshness of the modern cars, and it’s much lighter and more responsive. I drove one of these new at a dealership in 1994 and loved it. I came across this car locally last year and was just amazed at its condition. I purchased it -- just prior to making a decision to sell all of my hobby cars this year due to greatly increased demands on my time, resources, etc. (My half-dozen cars sit sadly without use, which is not good for them, nor for my state of mind, so, they need to find new, more attentive owners). I have driven it about 150 miles since purchase – the first couple weeks after taking possession -- and it has been in storage for the time since then. It comes with a clear title from the previous owner. For someone who likes these E36 BMWs, or someone looking for an inexpensive convertible, or even daily transport, this is a wonderful car. It’s one of those rare cases where, for the very low book value associated with the year, make, and model (or perhaps a bit of a premium? ?) you get an amazing value, because, this car is totally head and shoulders above what you would expect a used 1994 (or even 2005) car to look and feel like – even one in “excellent” condition. Parts are not cheap, of course, but there are a couple of great used/reconditioned parts sources in California. Everything works as per factory (including the air conditioning). Prior to transferring it to me, the previous owner had a full service performed and a few maintenance items taken care of. I then also took it to my German car expert who recommended a couple of additional service items which were then taken care of. It comes with a folder of service history (spanning approximately 10 years). It also comes with an additional center console with an armrest, which I bought post-purchase. The car ready to use and enjoy. The only flaws I can think of are a small hole in the shift boot, some corrosion and oil stains on the engine valve cover (you will see them in the pictures, the oil stains are just residue, I should have cleaned them up) and, some wear on the top, particularly the headliner. The top functions just fine and looks great from 10 feet – it is just not quite as pristine as the rest of the car (it’s fabric, after all). Note that it’s the manual top, which is simple and easy to use, and, entails no risk of stuck tops and expensive fixes due to broken sensors, bad hydraulics, etc. The BMW will sell to the highest bidder over a very reasonable reserve. I am glad to help coordinate shipping; arrangements are the responsibility of the buyer. I’ve described the car to the best of my knowledge – it is of course sold in as-is condition without warrantees. I am glad to answer questions, please contact me through Ebay. I’m also glad to show the car during the auction (subject to time and schedule constraints). Good luck bidding and thanks for reading this!