1991 BMW E30 3-Series Coupe for Sale: Red M42 Five-Speed Classic
The 1991 BMW E30 3-Series Coupe combines a 1.8-liter M42 inline-four with a five-speed manual transmission in a compact rear-drive chassis. Finished in Red over Black leatherette, it presents classic late-E30 proportions. Equipment includes 14-inch basketweave wheels, 195/65 Vredestein Sportrac 5 tires, adjustable Koni dampers, a sunroof, front and rear spoilers, sport seats, air conditioning, power windows, and an AM/FM cassette stereo. A documented suspension refresh adds enthusiast-focused chassis work while preserving straightforward E30 character.
View the official listing below.
1991 BMW E30 3-Series Coupe for sale
Engine and Performance
Power comes from a 1.8-liter gasoline M42 inline-four paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The manual gearbox keeps clutch timing, engine speed, and deliberate gear selection central to every drive. The compact engine and transmission suit the E30 platform. Together, the M42 and five-speed create an engaging drivetrain for urban use, winding roads, and relaxed weekend touring.
Engineering and Specifications
Fourteen-inch basketweave wheels wear 195/65 Vredestein Sportrac 5 tires, giving the coupe a period-correct visual footprint. Adjustable Koni dampers are fitted, and the seller reports that a suspension refresh also included powder-coated components, cadmium-plated hardware, an E30 M3-spec steering rack, and replacement bearings, bushings, and ball joints. Four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS provide stopping power, while a front wheel alignment was completed in November 2021.
Design and Heritage
Red paint emphasizes the E30’s upright greenhouse, crisp body lines, short overhangs, and compact two-door proportions. Front and rear spoilers add a sportier edge without obscuring the restrained original shape, while basketweave wheels reinforce its period appearance. Inside, Black leatherette, front sport seats, simple instrumentation, air conditioning, power windows, and the cassette stereo create an inviting early-1990s cabin.
Driving Experience
The M42 inline-four and five-speed manual place throttle response, clutch work, and gear selection directly in the driver’s hands. Koni dampers, refreshed suspension components, the M3-spec steering rack, Vredestein tires, and four-wheel ventilated ABS brakes provide a focused roadgoing foundation. Compact dimensions, supportive seats, and straightforward controls make the car well suited to winding roads, city driving, and longer vintage-car outings.
Why This Car is Special
- The 1.8-liter M42 inline-four and five-speed manual deliver a simple, engaging BMW drivetrain.
- Adjustable Koni dampers and an E30 M3-spec steering rack add enthusiast-oriented chassis upgrades.
- The reported suspension refresh included replacement bearings, bushings, ball joints, powder-coated components, and cadmium-plated hardware.
- Red paint, basketweave wheels, front and rear spoilers, and Black leatherette create a strong period presentation.
- Sport seats, air conditioning, power windows, ABS, and a sunroof add useful everyday comfort.
Specifications
- Engine: 1.8-liter gasoline M42 inline-four.
- Transmission: Five-speed manual.
- Wheels and tires: 14-inch basketweave wheels with 195/65 Vredestein Sportrac 5 tires.
- Chassis and brakes: Adjustable Koni dampers, E30 M3-spec steering rack, refreshed suspension hardware, four-wheel ventilated disc brakes, and ABS.
- Exterior and interior: Red paint, Black leatherette, sunroof, front and rear spoilers, front sport seats, air conditioning, AM/FM cassette stereo, and power windows.
Collector and Enthusiast Appeal
The 1991 BMW E30 3-Series Coupe combines classic BMW proportions, a manual gearbox, compact dimensions, and thoughtfully refreshed chassis hardware in a cohesive enthusiast package. Its Red finish, Black cabin, basketweave wheels, Koni dampers, sport seats, and M3-spec steering rack create a purposeful specification. For drivers drawn to analog BMWs, this E30 offers direct controls, useful comfort features, documented suspension work, and the practical charm of a compact rear-drive coupe.
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