The 1984-1988 BMW 325e Sedan (E30) was an economy-focused variant developed for the American market. It featured a 2.7-liter M20 engine producing 127 hp, prioritizing fuel economy (EPA estimates 21 city/28 highway, achieving 31 in a 100-mile test loop) and a comfortable ride over outright speed. Enthusiasts note its ride quality is better than many luxury cars, but it is often considered "very slow" due to its low power output, and early versions of its Motronic ECU were infamous for idle issues. Today, a clean 325e is a sought-after collector car, well-suited for someone who appreciates a classic E30 for enjoyable, comfortable driving rather than modification or high-performance use.
The 1984-1988 BMW 325e is generally reliable, with the motor being "bulletproof" aside from timing belt maintenance. Insurance costs for the BMW 3-Series can be higher than average.
Affordability Calculator
We have preconfigured our calculator for this vehicle
Why Use This Calculator?
Unlike calculators from banks or dealerships that may encourage overspending, our tool provides neutral, conservative estimates based on proven financial principles. Whether you're financing or paying cash, we help you understand what you can truly afford.
For Loan Financing:
- •Safe Range: Follows the , ensuring you can comfortably afford your car payment
- •Stretch Range: A moderate approach that balances affordability with your goals
- •Lender Max: What banks typically approve, but may strain your budget
For Cash Purchases:
- •Conservative: Uses 5% of net worth, maintaining strong financial reserves
- •Safe: Uses , following the recommended guideline
- •Stretch: Uses 15% of net worth, for when you want to prioritize the car