Verify the individual car
This page describes a model, engine or historical subject at archive level. Before using a specification for purchase, valuation or repair, confirm the chassis identity, production date, market version and installed parts of the individual car. Previous repairs and conversions can change what is present. Use the linked factory material for exact procedures and record measurements and observations rather than relying on appearance alone.
Character and place in the range
Stiffer than the coupé with room for the whole family.
Similar to coupé variants, slightly heavier (~20-30kg). The 324td reached 0-100 in ~11.9s with its turbodiesel.
Engine range
316 / 318i: M10/M40 4-cylinder. Entry-level models.
320i: M20B20 6-cylinder. Very popular in Europe.
323i / 325i: M20 6-cylinders. 150hp to 170hp.
325e: M20B27 6-cylinder 'eta'. 129hp. Very popular in the US and as a sedan.
324d / 324td: M21D24 6-cylinder diesel (86hp/115hp). Exceptionally robust for high milers.
Inspection and maintenance
Check bottoms of all 4 doors for rust carefully. Otherwise, general E30 weak points like timing belts and subframe bushings apply.
Condition varies more than specification. Inspect structure first, verify the engine’s time-sensitive service and road-test the complete car before valuing trim or options.
Details worth knowing
In the US and Europe, the sedan sold exceptionally well; surprisingly, the 4-door 325e 'eta' outsold the 325i sedan.
The 324td was a popular and reliable long-distance cruiser in the E30 world.
The 320i was the most popular entry-level six-cylinder in Europe with its silky M20 engine.