This E30-generation BMW 320iS is a rare and collectible modern classic performance coupe, finished in the smart hue of Diamond Black Metallic. It is powered by a naturally aspirated ‘S14’ 2.0-litre inline-four, delivering around 143kW to the rear wheels through a dog-leg, close-ratio five-speed ‘Getrag’ transmission and a limited-slip differential. This 320iS was originally delivered to Italy before later being exported to Australia, where it is now offered for sale. It is believed to be the only E30-generation 320iS registered in Australia today. The E30-generation BMW 320iS was developed by BMW Motorsport exclusively for the Italian and Portuguese markets during the late 1980s and early 1990s, where high taxes on vehicles with engines larger than 2.0 litres were causing many enthusiasts to opt out of purchasing a new E30 M3. As a result, the 320iS used the E30 M3’s S14 inline-four but with a slightly shorter stroke to drop the capacity below 2.0-litres. The model also featured suspension and braking upgrades, and was available as a four-door saloon, or - as with this example - a two-door coupe with a full M-Technic body kit. This 320iS is finished in Diamond Black Metallic over an Anthracite cloth-trimmed cabin. It rides on a set of 15-inch ‘basketweave’ alloy wheels, fitted with Dunlop tyres. Equipment includes electrically operated windows and mirrors, a check-control panel, and a Blaupunkt Bremen SQR 46 DAB stereo, which combines OEM styling with modern-day connectivity. Other upgrades include a Mishimoto radiator, an electric cooling fan, a genuine BMW purple-tag steering rack, a Supersprint exhaust system, Bilstein shock absorbers, Eibach lowering springs, and ADR-approved braided brake lines. In order to be compliant in the Australian market, a child restraint has been installed, as well as an anti-theft kill switch and genuine BMW door intrusion bars. Accompanying the sale are various maintenance invoices from the last three years as well as service and upgrade paperwork from the previous owner, import documentation, the spare wheel, and a toolkit. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: ageing on the roof and a small hole in the driver’s seat. The seller reports that the electric aerial is non-functional. The most recent roadworthiness inspection was reportedly conducted in June 2022, resulting in a clean pass. The car was last serviced at approximately 192,000 kilometres by Southern BMW, who also reconditioned the starter motor and fitted new rear sway bar links. A previous service included replacing the fuel feed and return hoses, cleaning the idle valve and throttle butterflies, and renewing the spark plugs and ignition switch. During the seller’s two-year ownership, period-correct gear selectors have been installed. The E30-generation BMW 320iS is a rare European-only variant of the firm’s acclaimed 1980s 3-Series, fitted with a downsized version of the fabled E30 M3’s engine to circumvent the Italian and Portuguese tax laws at the time, creating what many enthusiasts refer to as an ‘M3-lite’. This is believed to be the sole example that is registered in Australia today, and has been fitted with some well-chosen upgrades. It would now make an interesting addition to any BMW collection as well as an involving analogue plaything on the new owner’s favourite roads. The description of this consignment is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. Potential buyers should view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy. Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible vehicles to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, either to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be undetectable even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork during its life. Furthermore, photographs may not reflect the true colour or full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to satisfy themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy. This includes by raising enquiries with the seller in the comments section. For vehicles, unless otherwise stated, potential buyers should also assume that any cherished registration may be retained by the seller. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.