Character and place in the range
Designed out of pure passion and necessity by BMW engineer Max Reisböck.
Sportier than other estates of its time. Aerodynamics were comparable to the sedan, and with ~1125L luggage space it offered great utility.
Engine range
316i / 318i: Practical, affordable. M40 blocks after 1987.
320i / 325i: Sought-after 6-cylinders. The 325i Touring is now a collector's item.
325ix: Rare permanent all-wheel drive on the Touring. Perfect for winter sports.
324td: Often chosen for long distances. Reliable turbodiesel (115hp).
Inspection and maintenance
Specific rust spots include the entire tailgate (especially around the window and license plate lights) and failing rear wiper motors/washers.
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
The E30 Touring never had chrome bumpers (pre-facelift); it debuted in 1987 directly in the facelift style with plastic bumpers.
It was designed out of pure passion and necessity by BMW engineer Max Reisböck in his own garage, as no E30 estate existed at the time.