Few cars capture the spirit of the 1980s quite like the BMW E30. What started as BMW’s economy car has evolved into something far more significant for car culture, with the convertible models now firmly established in collector car territory.
There’s something special about seeing these drop-top E30s getting the recognition they deserve, especially when they’re brought back to life with period-correct modifications that make them even more appealing for the kids of the 80s and 90s.
The car we’re featuring today hits all the right notes – it’s a clean, OEM+ E30 convertible that has the right mods to make it stand out, without making it over the top. It features a row of tasteful period-correct add-ons that would definitely appreciated by any BMW fan. Let’s dive into what makes it the blueprint for the perfect E30 Convertible build.
E30 3-Series heritage
The BMW 3-Series E30 is one of the most iconic vehicles in the BMW lineup that defined the design theme of the brand for decades ahead. Its simple, yet aggressive design is familiar to any car guy and brings back the good memories of the 80s and 90s era.
Being produced from 1982 till 1994, it was available in various body styles such as the coupe, sedan, wagon, and of course the convertible, which now became the most desirable option for both collectors and regular enthusiasts. It’s no wonder that prices on convertible models skyrocketed within the last 5 years making these cars much harder to obtain.
Unlike the modern Bimmers, the E30 looks and feels simple which allows you to enjoy a truly analog driving experience. When equipped with the right parts, they can also bring a lot of joy to fans of spirited driving, and this beautiful E30 convertible that you see in the pictures is just like that.
“Unlike the modern Bimmers, the E30 looks and feels simple which allows you to enjoy a truly analog driving experience”
Convertible Build
The car is owned by Chris from Norway and features a lot of tasteful and period-correct upgrades.
“The wheels are BBS RF, love them. It’s something different. The E30 is lowered with KSport coilovers and works like a charm. Trying to keep the car as much OEM as possible Absolutely, like how E30’s look. Just need wheels and lowering”
Performance
It’s powered by the M20B25 straight-six engine with fully restored original Sebring headers and a deep-sounding custom exhaust.
The powertrain setup maintains the car’s original character while adding just the right amount of extra punch and acoustic presence.
Exterior Mods
The exterior modifications strike a perfect balance between form and function. The car sits on distinctive BBS RF wheels, which provide a refreshing alternative to more commonly seen BBS styles on E30s.
Suspension Mods
The stance is achieved through KSport coilovers, delivering both improved handling and aesthetics without compromising daily usability. Small details like the rectangular Hella fog lights with plastic covers complete the period-correct look, showing attention to even the finest details that matter to dedicated E30 enthusiasts.
“Another small, but stylish detail is the rectangular Hella fog lights with plastic covers that add a few more points to the period-correct look of this BMW E30 convertible”
List of Modifications
Performance
- M20B25 straight-six engine
- Restored Sebring headers
- Custom exhaust system
Suspension
- KSport coilovers
- Lowered ride height
Wheels & Tires
- BBS RF wheels (rare fitment choice for E30)
Exterior
- Rectangular Hella fog lights with plastic covers
- OEM+ styling elements maintained
Conclusion
This E30 convertible perfectly captures what makes these classics so special – it’s enhanced without losing its soul. While many builders get carried away with modifications, this Norwegian example shows how a few choice upgrades can transform an E30 into something exceptional.
| Parts Category | Difficulty Rating* |
|---|---|
| Suspension Mods: | 6/10 |
| Performance Mods: | 2.5/10 |
* Based on our build difficulty evaluation system ⓘ
Suspension modifications lead the build with the highest score of 6 points, anchored by the KSport coilover setup that defines this E30’s stance and handling characteristics. The performance category follows with 2.5 points, highlighted by the period-correct combination of Sebring headers and custom exhaust that enhance the M20B25’s natural character.
While the exterior remains largely stock in true OEM+ fashion, this restraint perfectly aligns with the owner’s vision of OEM+ styling instead of a radical transformation.
Stay tuned for more convertible car reviews on Specs&Mods.com – Follow us on social media, and share this write-up if you enjoyed reading it!
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