Jerez
Well-known member
On my search for a clean 325i sport ( cos we don't get the iS, I stumbled across this.
What makes the E30 320is unique?
The E30 320is is a special 3 Series model that was sold exclusively in Italy and Portugal in order to take advantage of the reduced taxes in those countries for cars with engines that displace two liters or less. It is powered by a 1990cc version of the four-cylinder S14 engine developed by BMW Motorsport for the E30 M3 and also shares its close-ratio Getrag gearbox with the M3. However, all other components are standard 3 Series items.
Where was the E30 320is built?
The E30 320is was built on the normal Regensberg assembly line alongside the other 3 Series models.
If the E30 320is is powered by an M engine, why is not badged as an M model?
The reason the E30 320is is not badged as an M model ultimately comes down to marketing: Unlike the limited-production M3, which was created primarily as a competition machine and utilizes many unique exterior body panels and chassis components, the 320is was never intended to be a homologation special. It was conceived instead as a sportier and more affordable alternative to the torquier and more refined 325i, which was taxed heavily in Italy and Portugal due to its 2.5-liter engine.
What makes the E30 320is unique?
The E30 320is is a special 3 Series model that was sold exclusively in Italy and Portugal in order to take advantage of the reduced taxes in those countries for cars with engines that displace two liters or less. It is powered by a 1990cc version of the four-cylinder S14 engine developed by BMW Motorsport for the E30 M3 and also shares its close-ratio Getrag gearbox with the M3. However, all other components are standard 3 Series items.
Where was the E30 320is built?
The E30 320is was built on the normal Regensberg assembly line alongside the other 3 Series models.
If the E30 320is is powered by an M engine, why is not badged as an M model?
The reason the E30 320is is not badged as an M model ultimately comes down to marketing: Unlike the limited-production M3, which was created primarily as a competition machine and utilizes many unique exterior body panels and chassis components, the 320is was never intended to be a homologation special. It was conceived instead as a sportier and more affordable alternative to the torquier and more refined 325i, which was taxed heavily in Italy and Portugal due to its 2.5-liter engine.
