In Brief:

Fantastic example of the ever desirable 'Baby M3' 318iS
Finished in Sterling Silver over a grey tartan cloth interior
Owned by The Vendor for the last 26 years
Just 2 former keepers
Comes with a great history file including stamped service book

On the Surface:

Presented here is a very clean and well-preserved example of the increasingly desirable 318iS—the so-called ‘Baby M3’—finished in Sterling Silver over a grey tartan cloth interior. Known for its subtle M-Tech styling and balanced proportions, this E30 has clearly benefitted from careful long-term ownership and presents in excellent condition, defying its mileage.

Maintenance & History:

Originally supplied by Tice & Son of Dorchester, this 318iS has had just two former keepers, with The Vendor acquiring it from Norman Motors of Bournemouth in 1999. It has remained in his ownership for the past 26 years, during which time it has been cherished, carefully maintained. This example comes with a notably comprehensive service history. The original BMW service booklet contains 27 service stamps, covering maintenance from its early days in 1991 at 1,210 miles through to its most recent recorded service in 2022 at 151,945 miles. Accompanying this is a strong history file including MOT certificates, a substantial number of invoices and the complete original BMW bookpack. Additional items include the BMW Owner's Handbook, Service Directory (1990/91), BMW Security and Emergency Service booklets. Importantly, the car also retains its complete original BMW toolkit, BMW First Aid Kit, warning triangle, car cover, and a new spare wheel—a rare completeness that highlights the care given to this car.

The Model:

The BMW E30 318iS was among the final additions to the E30 range and is now considered one of its most collectible variants. Powered by the advanced 1.8-litre M42 16-valve DOHC engine, producing 136 BHP, the 318iS offered a compelling alternative to the VW Golf GTI. It came equipped with factory sports suspension, vented front discs, power steering, electric mirrors and windows and subtle M-Tech styling—all contributing to a driver-focused package that combined agility, refinement and economy. With fuel consumption averaging around 33 MPG in mixed use, it balanced performance and practicality superbly.

Sale Insight:

With only two former keepers and a vendor-owned history stretching back over a quarter of a century, this 318iS represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most sought-after E30 variants in original and complete form. The level of documentation, originality and overall condition—despite the mileage—speaks volumes about the care this car has received. As values of well-preserved E30s continue to rise, this example offers both usability and investment potential in equal measure.