Louis' E30 - Proof That Patience Pays Off
Some cars are bought. Others are earned. In this case, it took years of passion, a bit of patience, and a serious stroke of luck for Louis to secure one of the most charming E30s on UK roads today.
Growing up with a dad who lived and breathed engines, it was inevitable that cars would eventually take hold. From motocross weekends, to rides in everything; from a Volkswagen Phaeton to a Porsche GT3, the seed was planted early. Two wheels came first, but there was always a quiet admiration for what four wheels could offer.
"I loved being on two wheels but always had a soft spot for 4!"
And when the right E30 surfaced? The stars finally aligned.
The E30 had been sitting on a well known car auction site for weeks - taunting from afar, just out of reach. Every car person knows that feeling; watching, hoping, wondering if you’ll ever be able to pull the trigger. Then, one day, it vanished. Sold? Gone forever? Not quite.
Weeks later it reappeared, and this time? Open to bids. That’s when instinct kicked in.
"When the bids sat at the right price, I called the guy and offered to take it there and then. He agreed. I even put a cheeky fake bid on to make sure no one else jumped in last minute..."
Not only was it a massive save, but this wasn’t just any E30. It was a rare factory MTECHNIC 2 model, boasting factory M3 sport seats, a sunroof, a rear blind, a proper onboard computer, and even those legendary headlight wipers. With just 79k miles and only two previous owners, it was everything an E30 fan dreams about.
There was never a plan to go over the top. This wasn't about turning it into a show queen or a track monster. This was about respecting the history while making it drive and look better than it did when it left the factory.
"The car is an OEM plus build, so I'm keeping it as original looking as possible. I am building another 1.8 which will help give it a bit more power but I'm not looking for a rocket ship"
What followed was a carefully executed OEM+ build, where every part fitted had a purpose:
- Z3 Steering Rack - To modernize the steering feel without losing character.
- Powerflow Exhaust - Just enough noise to smile, but not enough to annoy.
- Bilstein Suspension - Perfect stance, perfect ride, no nonsense.
- Blaupunkt Head Unit & Sound System - Old school looks, new school sound.
- Rebuilt Calipers, New Fuel Tank, Refreshed Lighting - Peace of mind upgrades.
Over £6,000 went into subtle, smart choices, not to mention hours sourcing period-correct parts. Most importantly? This E30 is 100% rust-free. No hidden horror stories, just a solid car getting the love it deserves.
As if the story wasn’t good enough, the E30’s charm caught the attention of some unexpected fans.
"The car is featured in the new NIKE SB, advert which it was scouted for and hired, to be the car for the promotion of the shoe! An incredible opportunity I won't ever forget - or even probably top"
The focus isn’t on transforming the E30 into something unrecognizable. It’s about refinement, preservation, and continuing to enjoy the thing exactly as it was intended.
You’ll spot it out and about in 2025 at:
✅ The Ultimate Show
✅ Tucked
✅ RH x BH
✅ Regular meets at Caffeine & Machine and The Bowl
"The goal now? Just enjoy it. Keep it looking fresh, keep it driving well, and take it to a few more places where people can appreciate it."
In a world where people chase horsepower figures and outlandish builds, there’s something undeniably refreshing about an E30 like this. It’s not trying too hard. It just is what it is - and it’s brilliant.
A massive shout and thank you to Louis (@efurtee) for his time, and to Alex (@alxx.phxtography) for the epic photography. Head to the gram, and give these guys a follow.
If you've got a build that's special and want to tell your story, get in touch, you could be our next feature 🤙
