1988 BMW 3-Series

The 1988 BMW 3-Series offered very diverse selection of engines and body styles including a 2- and 4-door sedan, and convertible. They consisted of the 325iS, 325i, 325iC, and the M3. Additionally, a new four-wheel-drive 325iX was added to the list. It was a full-time 4WD system that sent 63 percent of power to the rear wheels and the remained to the front. The only body style offered on the 325iX was a two-door and power was from a 2.5-liter six-cylinder engine which was also found in the 325i/iS sedans and the convertible. Another feature helping the 4WD effective was a front and center differential which locked automatically when wheel-spin was detected.

The performance option on the 3-series was the M3 which was given a twin-overhead-cam 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. It was rated at nearly 200 horsepower and had a selling price of $34,000. Standard equipment including sport seats in the front with adjustable thigh support, Motorsport steering wheel, an 8000-RPM tachometer, oil temperature gauge, a contoured rear seat, and a modified suspension. They also had enlarged tires which measured 205/55VR15.

The BMW 325i and 325iS came standard with cruise control, an on-board computer, premium sound system which included an equalizer, and leather upholstery. The 325iS also was given a limited-slip differential.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2015