been interested in a cheap bmw

i've seen some cheap bmw's aroudn and have heard that they can be pretty fast, specifically i've been looking at the late 80's bmw 325, is this a good choice? i've also seen the older m3's, a dream car but out of reach for now, but any way to convert a 325 to be an m3? engine swap, etc., and any other cars that are available made by bmw that are around or under $3000?

You're talking about the E30 (square body from '84 through '91 in the U.S.).

Avoid the 325es, it has only a little more power than the 318 4 cylinder. On other 325s find out when the timing belt was last changed, if ever. It's a $400 job that needs to be done at 50-70,000 mile intervals.

The 4's use a steel chain and don't require the maintenance. But the only 4's that are fast are the M3s and the '90-'91 318is's, both well above your budget.

So look for a 325, preferably stick, that's been well-maintained and gently driven by a little old lady (or man). It might take a few weeks but there are GEMS out there around two grand.

Contact your local BMW CCA chapter. The members will want justifiably high prices for their cars, but there are usually some independent BMW shop owner-members who can hook you up with non-enthusiast clients ready to sell.

well for 3 grand its hard to find a bmw, the cheapest bmw i found was a 87 325e in good condition for 2500, but it had machanical problems, but my bro bought a 535i in good condition no machanical problems for 3900