Description
Completely rust free E36 Compact. This is a real survivor car in, what our local BMW-pervert describes to us as the more desirable, Montreal blue.
Aside from Cronks of Banstead (of which the original stickers and number plates still adorn the car) this is a one lady owner, sub 50, 000 vehicle. It's an honest car and has no hidden nasties. It's never been painted, is in great condition, and drives really well.
Drive away an increasingly rare 90's BMW, today!So, this is the bit where we dig deep into why we have this car... well, truth be told, it came up because the previous owner was giving up driving and, having had a few BMWS in my time (read 5 E36's, 20 E46's, 4 E90's etc etc) I couldn't not buy it!
As described, it's a truly honest car. There's no rust underneath, none in the arches. It's never had paint. Sadly, and the reason why the previous owner gave up driving, there are a few battle scars - the worst being a scratch down the passenger door, starting at the front wing. There are also a number of car park dents, too. But, rather than get these repaired and painted, I figured it's better to leave the car with its original paintwork and keep it honest. I have tried to show images of the main damage.
Other issues with the car that I know of are that the bulb on the ODO has blown, you can still see the remarkably low mileage of sub 50K, but you have to squint.
It has two sets of keys, both with alarm fobs (and a Cronks of Banstead key fob). One of the alarm fobs lights up, the other doesn't. However neither activate the alarm. I suspect, where it's had a flat battery (new one fitted) the alarm and fob now need re-aligning. A moderately easy job, I'm told, if you know what you are doing.
The previous owner didn't pass on any of the history with the vehicle, sadly, but it does have the original leather booklet, complete with the business card of the salesperson that originally sold the vehicle. Plus, handily, the code for the radio.
Aside from the bulb on the odo, all of the electrics work as they should, the engine runs sweet with no rattles and it drives really well. A nice bit of nostalgia.
Don't let the auto box put you off, if anything, it makes this car a more attractive prospect. A slice of 90's motoring without the hassle of having to change gear.
The grey leather interior is in great condition, with the rear seat probably never having been sat in.
