Three-box design strikes again.
Although looking quite similar to the rest of their more potent line-up, the BMW’s 318is was not a powerhouse (1.8L made 103kw/138hp). What it lacked in displacement, it fulfilled with ‘driver feel’ through a tight and lightweight chassis, direct steering input and more than enough get-up-and-go.
Still, if it was up to me, I would have one of the more power engine. Which, coincidentally, is exactly what the owner of this 318is did…
Featuring the 157 kw (211 hp) 3.5 L inline-six engine known as the M30, this red rocket now has a powerful heart to match his shiny exterior (a truly glorious use of money – which makes sense of the $30,000 price tag).
Speaking of exterior shine though, this car is immaculate.
It’s everything you would want if you restored the car yourself.
Other than that, it’s the ideal trim – the timeless and highly lauded E30 generation, in coupe format (still with all four seats though, because practicality matters), leather interior and with a subtle restomod approach (new engine, black accents on taillights and spoiler).
This would be my daily car.
It has that effortless style, practicality and power that would see me reaching for the keys at every opportunity.