by Guys with Rides | Apr 2024 | Craigslist ClassiFINDS, Free For All Friday
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I love strippers! No, not the ones you’re likely thing of. I’m referring to base model, often unoptioned cars offered by automobile manufacturers. Since the dawn of the automobile, most car manufacturers offered a base model built to a price point as a way to lure buyers in their showrooms. It was then the dealers job to upsell options as a way to pad their margins. So, while the manufacturers use these models to advertise a price, it is often virtually impossible to find such a car on the dealers lot. Many would often force you to special order an unoptioned car and wait weeks for it to arrive.
The most famous entry-level model ever offered by BMW in the U.S. was the E36 three-series based 318ti, launched in 1994. By the mid-1990s, consumers beyond Yuppies were clamoring to a buy a BMW but many could not afford the premium price most models carried. BMW addressed it by offering the 318ti for an advertised base price of $19,900. A 318ti at that price point meant your entry-level base Bimmer featured cloth seats, steel wheels covered with plastic hubcaps, and BMW’s M42 DOHC inline-four mated to a five-speed manual.
I remember these cars vividly when launched in 1994. At $19,900, it was a brand new BMW I could afford, or at least I thought I could at the time. Living in Central Massachusetts at the time, I had the luxury of several BMW dealerships located within an easy drive. I ended up visiting four Boston-area dealerships, test drove one, but never bought a 318ti. Why? While BMW advertised a $19,900 base price, the dealers only ordered models with upgraded leather-looking seats, 15″ aluminum wheels, sunroofs, and automatic transmissions. All of those features quickly took the stick price to the mid-$20’s. That fact conspired with Massachusetts crazy insurance premiums at the time to make BMW’s base model unafforable for me when new. It was a shame because despite being a base model car, it handled, steered, and braked like a BMW 3-series should.
This White 1997 BMW E36 318ti For Sale, first spotted on Craigslist in Franklin, Wisconsin (Milwaukee) in April 2024, bought that memory vividly back. A survivor-quality example with only 47K two-owner miles, the only options this 318ti sports are the optional four-speed automatic transmission and sunroof. BMW E36 318tis are hard to come by these days, as many were driven into the ground. This survivor-quality example still features steel wheels and hubcaps that only adds to its stripper charm.
Currently offered for $12,000, Classic.com, the analytics and search engine for the collector car market, confirms the ask aligns with this guide’s six-month results for all BMW E36 318tis produced between 1994 and 1998. Note the premium price paid for 5-speed versions. By clicking on the green dots in the graph below, you can get a sense of what comparable examples sold for recently:
As a second data point, the Old Cars Weekly Online Pricing Guide reveals the seller’s ask falls exactly at this source’s #1 “Excellent” appraisal of $12,000.
The 1997 BMW E30 318ti, a variant of the iconic E30 generation, holds a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts, particularly those in the United States where its importation added a layer of exclusivity. This compact hatchback, with its sporty demeanor and practical design, captivated a niche market seeking both performance and versatility.
Powered by a spirited 1.8-liter inline-four engine, the 318ti delivered a respectable 138 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant, equipped with BMW’s Double VANOS system, offered a balance of low-end torque for city driving and high-end power for spirited maneuvers on the open road. Paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission, drivers had the flexibility to tailor their driving experience to their preferences.
The E30 chassis, renowned for its balanced handling and nimble character, provided a solid foundation for the 318ti. With McPherson struts up front and semi-trailing arms in the rear, coupled with BMW’s meticulous suspension tuning, the 318ti offered engaging dynamics without compromising on ride comfort. Its compact dimensions and hatchback body style added a layer of versatility, making it equally adept at navigating city streets and accommodating cargo for weekend getaways.
Inside the cabin, BMW’s attention to detail and driver-centric design ethos were evident. Though modest by modern standards, the interior boasted quality materials, ergonomic controls, and a focus on functionality. Optional upgrades, including leather upholstery and a sunroof, allowed buyers to personalize their driving environment to suit their tastes.
Importation of the 1997 BMW E30 318ti into the U.S. added to its allure, making it a sought-after gem among enthusiasts. While the process may entail ensuring compliance with federal regulations, the reward for enthusiasts is a rare and distinctive piece of automotive history, imbued with the spirit of BMW’s legendary E30 lineage.
The MotorWeek Retro Review YouTube Channel features this video review of the then-new 1996 BMW 318ti:
Based on the extensive pictures, this white 1997 BMW E36 318ti for sale appears to be a nicely preserved and unmodified example, right down to the factory cassette stereo. As long as the Carfax® and/or the seller provides detailed records of the car’s maintenance history, this 318ti could be a great find as they have earned a reputation for being able to last a very long time.
If you are serious about buying this E30 318ti survivor, you can start the conversation by using the contact information provided by the seller in their Craigslist ad. When you connect, please mention that you saw their Base Bimmer featured here on GuysWithRides.com. Good luck with the purchase!
Here’s the seller’s description:
Asking $12,000. These cars are becoming harder to find especially in this condition with these low miles.“
Show or go: What would you do with this survivor quality 1997 BMW E36 318ti for sale? Please comment below and let us know!
