Expert: Josh Fields - 7/11/2006

Question
Josh,  Once again thank you.  The car is so clean.  I'm thrilled.  Let me know if you would like for me to send a picture.  Another question...what was the sticker price on the car in 1989?  Thanks
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Followup To

Question -
Josh,

Thank you.  I'm picking the car up today.  I live in PA so we do get the snow and ice.  The car is in mint condition and was a bit pricey.  Can you also explain how the BMW's are classified example e30?  -------------------------

Followup To

Question -
Can you please tell me more about the ix - what does the x stand for?  Is this vehicle AWD?  I'm looking at at 1989 325ix and they haven't mentioned that it is AWD and that would be a great plus for me - Thanks

Answer -
Nancy,
 Correct, these were the AWD version for BMW's 3-eries.  I'm guessing it was to counter Audi with their AWD cars.

 They are semi-rare, and usually pretty pricey when you can find them.  I've only seen a handful in my experience, but I think they are more prominent in the Northern States (snow/ice).

 Beware, some of the parts are expensive and could leave you with a large bill to pay if the front differential tears up.

 Good luck,
 Josh

Answer -
Nancy,
 Sure I'll try my best to explain:

 Ok, you know that you can buy a 1987 325i, 1994 325i, and a 2005 325i?  Each one of these 325i's is drastically different in appearance and performance.  

 The 3-series has had quite a few changes over it's lifespan of 1975-2006!

 E21 1975-1983
 E30 1984-1991
 E36 1992-1998
 E46 1999-2005
 E90 2006-?

 Those are the codes and bodystyles of the 3 series, there are a few cross over's in there, such as in 1992 if you wanted a convertible, you got the E30, but the hardtop was the E36 (I guess the E36 convertible wasn't ready).

 In 1999 if you wanted a 2 door coupé you got an E36, but the 4-door was an E46.  

 The 5 series has its own codes, along with the 6,7, and 8 series.

 Hope this helps a little,
 Josh

Answer
Nancy,
 If the car is in great condition, and it's been babied it's whole life... you've probably struck gold with this deal.  It is a good car, and a well sought-after one too.

 I tried to find sticker prices for the car, but had no luck.  Based on the fact that it was the IX model, that had to be an expensive option.  I have a friend who has a 1987 SAAB 9000, and his window sticker said $28,000.  It is a top-of-the-line model too, with all options.  So I would figure the IX to be in that neighborhood as well.  That's probably equal to $35,000-$40,000 today.  NICE CAR!

 Have fun with it, and if you have any other questions, please ask!

 Josh