1989 BMW 325i/325is Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs
The 1989 BMW 325i/325is is part of the iconic E30 generation, produced from 1982 to 1991. This rear-wheel-drive compact executive car was available as a sedan (325i), coupe (325is), convertible, and wagon. Its popularity stems from its blend of sporty handling, refined driving dynamics, and a timeless design. The 325is, in particular, offered a more performance-oriented package. New pricing in 1989 ranged from approximately $25,000 to $30,000, depending on trim and options.
The Good
The 1989 BMW 325i/325is boasts exhilarating performance with its smooth inline-six engine and superb handling. Its classic, understated design appeals to timeless aesthetics, while its robust build quality and driver-focused interior offer practical comfort and a rewarding ownership experience.
The Bad
Common issues for the 1989 BMW 325i/325is include rust, especially around wheel arches and sills, coolant leaks from the expansion tank and hoses, and potential oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and oil pan. Electrical gremlins can also arise with age.
1989 BMW 325i/325is: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Primarily a 2.5-liter M20 inline-six engine.
- Horsepower: Approximately 168 hp for the 325i/325is.
- Torque: Around 164 lb-ft.
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimates were roughly 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway. Actual mileage can vary significantly with driving style and maintenance.
- 0-60 Times: Around 7.5 to 8.5 seconds, depending on transmission (manual typically faster) and specific model.
- Towing Capacity: Not designed for towing; no official towing capacity is listed.
- Transmission: Available with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
- Trim-Level Features (325is vs. 325i): The 325is generally included sportier suspension tuning, a limited-slip differential, aerodynamic body kits (front spoiler, side skirts), and often sport seats. Standard 325i models offered a comfortable yet engaging driving experience.
- Body Styles: Available as a 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan, convertible, and historically, a rare wagon (Touring).
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive.
- Suspension: Independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and independent rear trailing arms. The 325is featured a sportier tuning.
- Brakes: Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes.
- Steering: Rack-and-pinion power steering.
- Wheelbase: Approximately 104.3 inches.
- Length: Varies by body style, but sedans and coupes are around 170 inches.
- Weight: Approximately 2,900 - 3,100 lbs depending on body style and options.
1989 BMW 325i/325is Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1989 |
| Make | BMW |
| Model | 325i/325is |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | REGENSBURG |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 54.30 inches |
| Overall Length | 175.20 inches |
| Overall Width | 64.80 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 101.20 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5L I6 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $28,950 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1989 BMW 325i/325is Have?
The 1989 BMW 325i/325is, while generally well-built for its era, is susceptible to age-related issues. One of the most common concerns is rust, particularly in the lower body panels, wheel arches, rocker panels, and around the sunroof. Thorough inspection for rust is crucial before purchasing. Cooling system components are another frequent point of failure; the plastic coolant expansion tank is prone to cracking, leading to leaks. Hoses can also degrade over time, requiring replacement. The head gasket is a known, albeit not universal, issue, often exacerbated by overheating. Oil leaks are also common, with valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets being frequent culprits. The fuel pump and fuel lines can also deteriorate. On the electrical front, aging wiring harnesses can lead to intermittent issues, and specific components like the ABS control module or window regulators can fail. The odometer gear in the instrument cluster is a notorious weak point, often failing and causing the odometer to stop functioning. While there aren't major model-year specific recalls that stand out for this particular year, general maintenance and preventative care are key to long-term reliability. The M20 engine is known for its durability when properly maintained, but neglect can lead to more significant problems. Transmission issues, while less common than engine or body issues, can include clutch wear in manual transmissions and solenoid problems in automatics. The differential, especially the limited-slip differential often found in the 325is, can wear out, leading to reduced performance.
How long will the 1989 BMW 325i/325is last?
With proper and consistent maintenance, the 1989 BMW 325i/325is can reliably reach and even surpass 200,000 miles. Many owners report their E30s, including the 325i/325is, exceeding 250,000 or even 300,000 miles with dedicated care. The inherent robust engineering of the M20 engine and chassis contributes to this longevity. However, its long-term durability is heavily dependent on the owner's commitment to maintenance. Neglecting common wear items, ignoring rust, or allowing cooling system issues to persist will significantly shorten its lifespan and lead to more costly repairs. Rust, in particular, can become a structural weakness over time, compromising the vehicle's integrity if left unaddressed.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1989 BMW 325i/325is, being from the late 1980s, featured technology and safety systems that were advanced for its time but are basic by today's standards.
Standard and Optional Features:
Crash-Test Ratings:
Official crash-test ratings from organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS are not as readily available or standardized for vehicles of this vintage compared to modern cars. However, the E30 chassis was known for its solid construction. Despite its sturdy build, it lacks the advanced airbag systems, electronic stability control, and advanced crumple zone technologies found in contemporary vehicles. Therefore, in a modern collision, its safety performance would be considerably lower than current standards. The emphasis in safety for the 1989 325i/325is was on passive safety features like seatbelts and a strong chassis, with ABS being the primary active safety enhancement.
Standard and Optional Features:
- Entertainment: Standard fare typically included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player. Optional upgrades could include a premium sound system with more speakers.
- Comfort Features: Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, cruise control, and a sunroof were often standard or available options, especially on the 325is. Air conditioning was also a common feature.
- Driver Assistance: Driver assistance features were minimal. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was available as an option on many models, significantly enhancing braking control.
- Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included three-point seatbelts in the front and rear, crumple zones designed into the body structure, and reinforced doors. Later models of the E30 generation, including the 1989 model year, saw improvements in safety over earlier versions.
- Optional Features: Beyond ABS, other desirable optional features could include leather upholstery, heated seats, a limited-slip differential (standard on 325is), and upgraded wheels.
Crash-Test Ratings:
Official crash-test ratings from organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS are not as readily available or standardized for vehicles of this vintage compared to modern cars. However, the E30 chassis was known for its solid construction. Despite its sturdy build, it lacks the advanced airbag systems, electronic stability control, and advanced crumple zone technologies found in contemporary vehicles. Therefore, in a modern collision, its safety performance would be considerably lower than current standards. The emphasis in safety for the 1989 325i/325is was on passive safety features like seatbelts and a strong chassis, with ABS being the primary active safety enhancement.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1989 BMW 325i/325is Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1989 BMW 325i/325is models typically ranged from approximately $25,000 to $30,000, with the 325is often being at the higher end due to its sportier features. These cars have experienced significant depreciation over the years, as is typical for most vehicles. However, well-maintained E30 325i/325is models, especially clean examples or the more desirable 325is coupe, have seen their values stabilize and even appreciate in recent years, becoming modern classics. Factors heavily influencing current resale value include the car's overall condition (rust is a major detractor), maintenance history, mileage, originality, and whether it's a manual transmission (generally more sought after). Convertibles and coupes tend to hold their value better than sedans. Expect prices for average condition examples to range from $5,000 to $10,000, with pristine or rare models fetching considerably more.
1989 BMW 325i/325is Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1989 BMW 325i/325is can be moderately costly, especially for those unfamiliar with older European cars. Insurance rates can vary but are generally reasonable for a classic vehicle. Fuel economy is acceptable for its era and performance, around 18-24 mpg. Maintenance is crucial; regular oil changes, coolant checks, and preventative part replacements are necessary. Repairs can be expensive, as BMW parts are often pricier than domestic equivalents, and finding specialized mechanics might be required. While not the cheapest to own, its enduring appeal and engaging driving experience can offset the costs for enthusiasts who prioritize driving pleasure over pure economy.
1989 BMW 325i/325is Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
16.40 gallons
City Mileage
18 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
23 miles/gallon
1989 BMW 325i/325is Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1989 BMW 325i/325is Insurance
Insurance for a 1989 BMW 325i/325is is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1989 BMW 325i/325is Compare to Other Sedan?
In 1989, the BMW 325i/325is competed in the compact executive sports sedan/coupe segment against rivals like the Audi 80/90, Mercedes-Benz 190E, Acura Integra, and the Ford Mustang.
Performance: The 325i/325is typically offered superior handling and a more engaging driving experience than most rivals. Its inline-six engine provided a smooth, potent power delivery that often outshone the four-cylinder engines in some competitors like the Integra or base Audi models. The Mercedes 190E offered a more refined and comfortable ride but was generally less sporty.
Features: BMW's interior was driver-focused and well-appointed for its time, with available features like sport seats and ABS. Rivals like the Acura Integra offered strong value with more standard features for the price, while the Mercedes 190E leaned towards luxury. Audi models offered a solid, Quattro-all-wheel-drive option in some trims, which the BMW lacked.
Reliability: While the E30 is known for its solid build, its reliability can be a mixed bag due to age. BMWs of this era can be more complex and costly to repair than Japanese rivals like the Acura Integra, which often boasted bulletproof reliability. Mercedes vehicles of this period were also built to last but can also be expensive to maintain.
Price: The BMW 325i/325is was generally priced at the premium end of this segment, reflecting its brand prestige and performance.
Alternatives:
Overall, the 1989 BMW 325i/325is stood out for its balanced performance, engaging handling, and timeless design, making it a desirable choice for driving enthusiasts, even with potential age-related maintenance needs.
Performance: The 325i/325is typically offered superior handling and a more engaging driving experience than most rivals. Its inline-six engine provided a smooth, potent power delivery that often outshone the four-cylinder engines in some competitors like the Integra or base Audi models. The Mercedes 190E offered a more refined and comfortable ride but was generally less sporty.
Features: BMW's interior was driver-focused and well-appointed for its time, with available features like sport seats and ABS. Rivals like the Acura Integra offered strong value with more standard features for the price, while the Mercedes 190E leaned towards luxury. Audi models offered a solid, Quattro-all-wheel-drive option in some trims, which the BMW lacked.
Reliability: While the E30 is known for its solid build, its reliability can be a mixed bag due to age. BMWs of this era can be more complex and costly to repair than Japanese rivals like the Acura Integra, which often boasted bulletproof reliability. Mercedes vehicles of this period were also built to last but can also be expensive to maintain.
Price: The BMW 325i/325is was generally priced at the premium end of this segment, reflecting its brand prestige and performance.
Alternatives:
- Similar: For a similar blend of sportiness and luxury, the Mercedes-Benz 190E (especially the 2.3-16 or 2.5-16 Cosworth variants) offers a comparable, albeit more comfort-oriented, experience. The Audi 90 Quattro provides all-wheel-drive capability and a refined interior.
- More Affordable/Sporty: The Acura Integra, particularly the GS-R models from later years, offers excellent handling and reliability at a lower price point, though it lacks the inline-six character and rear-wheel-drive dynamic of the BMW. A Ford Mustang GT of the era offers V8 power and RWD but with a less refined chassis and interior.
Overall, the 1989 BMW 325i/325is stood out for its balanced performance, engaging handling, and timeless design, making it a desirable choice for driving enthusiasts, even with potential age-related maintenance needs.
Final Verdict: Is the 1989 BMW 325i/325is a Good Sedan?
The 1989 BMW 325i/325is is ideal for driving enthusiasts who appreciate classic European engineering, engaging handling, and a timeless design. It's a worthwhile purchase for those who enjoy the process of maintaining and driving a well-engineered car, and who have a moderate budget for potential repairs.
Buying used is the only option. The 325is trim is generally more desirable for its sportier characteristics. Buyers should prioritize examples with thorough maintenance records and minimal rust. It's not the ideal choice for someone seeking a completely trouble-free, low-maintenance vehicle, but for those willing to invest time and resources, it offers a rewarding and iconic driving experience that is hard to replicate at its current market value.
Buying used is the only option. The 325is trim is generally more desirable for its sportier characteristics. Buyers should prioritize examples with thorough maintenance records and minimal rust. It's not the ideal choice for someone seeking a completely trouble-free, low-maintenance vehicle, but for those willing to invest time and resources, it offers a rewarding and iconic driving experience that is hard to replicate at its current market value.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.