Model History

Available only in manual coupé form, the E30 318iS was released in 1989 with BMW’s brand new M42 engine. This was the most modern engine available in the E30 range, which incorporated DOHC, the updated Bosch Motronic 1.3, and hydraulic valve adjusters. The ‘is’ (Injection Sport) also boasted firmer M-Technic suspension that meant stiffer springs, firmer Boge shocks, and anti-roll bars measuring 20mm at the front and 12mm at the rear. A sportier aesthetic was achieved with the addition of a front air dam and rear boot lip. To keep costs down the list of available options was minimised but cars could be spec’d with a sunroof, limited-slip diff, front fog lamps, anti-theft equipment, 15-inch alloys, and metallic paint.

When the E30 was originally launched in 1982 BMW had no immediate plans to offer a convertible, although they knew there was a demand for a soft top. So, in co-operation with Karosserie Baur, they offered a roof conversion as an optional extra, which saw the main roof skin and rear window removed and replaced with a folding canvas roof. This was a design that had seen success on the earlier E21 where it was known as a “Top Cabriolet” or TC; the Baur E30 is known as the TC2.

Despite the introduction of the official E30 convertible in 1987, BMW's long history with Baur meant that the TC2 conversion was still available as an option for coupe models for the entirety of production, finishing in 1991. They were very expensive specific orders when made. The example featured here is one of the last RHD Baur versions available, and when you combine this with an E30 318iS, you get one of only 28 right-hand drive units of the 318iS ever commissioned in the UK.

Equipment

Brilliant Red paintwork, Silver Uberkaro cloth, 5-speed manual transmission, 15-inch BBS alloy wheels, Baur Top Cabriolet removable roof panel and folding rear hood, Vinyl tonneau cover, Front and rear spoilers, M Sport steering wheel, M Sport gear knob, Electric windows, Electrically adjustable door mirrors, Blaupunkt Bremen SQR 46 radio with Bluetooth and USB, Analogue clock, Lockable glovebox, BMW tool kit, Jack, Warning triangle, BMW first aid kit, Alloy spare wheel.

Exterior

This rare 318iS Baur ‘Top Cabriolet’ presents to an excellent standard all around. Having just been treated to a full detail and machine polish on arrival with us the paintwork retains a great depth of shine with a deep and uniform colour throughout. The panel gaps are spot-on, the black plastic trims are unfaded, and there are no signs of corrosion in any of the usual E30 weak spots such as the wheel arches or scuttle panel. In line with the mileage there are a few small chips and discreetly touched-in marks but nothing to detract from the car’s highly impressive appearance. The Baur cabriolet roof is also in excellent condition with no wear to the removable centre panel, roll bar, or folding rear section. The 15-inch wheels are free from kerb marking with matching Goodyear tyres all round.

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Interior

At 35 years old, unlike most 318iS’ that have covered circa 150k miles, this stunning example has just 87k miles under its belt. The low mileage is particularly evident from the superb condition of its interior. The chequered cloth sports seats are first-rate throughout with no damage to the bolsters or bases. There are no cracks on the dashboard and the switchgear still feels reassuringly solid to operate. A retro-style Blaupunkt USB/Bluetooth head unit has been fitted for modern convenience but with all the period styling of an original ‘80s tape deck. In the boot you’ll find a pristine load area that’s still equipped with the BMW tool kit, first aid kit, warning triangle, spare wheel, and handy storage shelf for the roof panel.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Lift the bonnet and you’ll find a well presented engine bay, not overly dressed to a concours standard but in excellent unrestored condition with no signs of damage or previous poor repair. The 1.8-litre M42 engine boasts DOHC, updated valve adjusters, and a respectable 136ps from the factory. The engine is as zingy and free-revving as its reputation suggests, and the 5-speed manual gearbox makes for an engaging and thrilling drive. The last service was carried out alongside the most recent MOT in May 2025 and prior to this, at 80k miles, the car had an Inspection II carried out by Munich Legends.

History File

First registered in August 1990 this rare Baur convertible was supplied new by Richard Cound BMW Centre in Gloucester. It has now driven just 87k miles in the hands of 7 registered keepers including actor and comedian Steve Coogan. According to BMW, only 28 318iS models were ordered from Baur, making this particular E30 a rare find indeed. As the 318iS was only ever available from BMW in coupe form, if you wanted one as a convertible then an official conversion by Karrosserie Baur in Stuttgart was your only choice – for a princely sum of course.

This E30 is accompanied by a great maintenance record with 18 stamps in the original service booklet. From 2021-2022 the car was significantly gone through by marque specialists, Classic Heroes, with over £19,600 spent in total. Under current ownership the car has been regularly MOT’d and maintained despite the low mileage driven. The accompanying history file comprises a raft of invoices, MOT certificates, the original BMW document wallet, and all owner’s manuals. A documented speedo change was carried out under warranty in 1992 at 7,926 miles.

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