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<\/p>\nAn Exeter-based BMW dealership has successfully restored a 1988 BMW 320i E30 Coupe it acquired from a customer, after servicing it for more than 20 years.<\/p>\n
Vertu Exeter BMW is now displaying this classic BMW 320i E30 Coupe \u2013 equipped with the company\u2019s signature straight-six engine \u2013 at its newly opened used car centre.<\/p>\n
The vehicle, meticulously maintained by the dealership for over two decades, was previously owned by a customer who had been the sole driver since 1994.<\/p>\n
Manager Andrew Hosking has been with the dealership for 19 years and played a pivotal role in saving the vehicle. He said: “I’ve seen this car come in every year I’ve worked here. It’s been a part of our dealership\u2019s history, just as much as it\u2019s been a part of the owner\u2019s life.<\/p>\n
“Over time, it became something our service centre colleagues looked forward to seeing \u2013 after all, it was fast becoming a classic and had been loved and well looked after by its owner, despite some age-related wear.\u201d<\/p>\n
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When the owner recently decided to trade in the vehicle, which has just over 80,000 miles on the clock, for a newer model, the dealership seized the opportunity to honour the car\u2019s legacy rather than sending it to the auction market.<\/p>\n
Recognising the E30\u2019s relatively low mileage, original condition, and status as a modern classic, Hosking and the team committed to restoring the vehicle to its former glory.<\/p>\n
The restoration process is said to have been extensive, involving a complete strip-down of the vehicle. The Lachs Silver paintwork has been meticulously restored, alongside the interior and mechanical components, ensuring the car is returned to its original splendour.<\/p>\n
Hosking added: “It would have been a shame to see it head towards an uncertain future after being so loved for so long. The customer was sad to part with it but knowing she can come and see it anytime made the decision easier for both of us. It\u2019s had a full restoration by our talented team in the body shop and service centre, and the end result is truly remarkable.<\/p>\n
“I\u2019m certain it will be quite emotional for the owner when she sees it, and I have no doubt it will be a showstopper at the dealership and we\u2019re looking forward to taking it out to events \u2013 it will certainly be eye catching!”<\/p>\n
The BMW E30, produced between 1982 and 1994, is widely regarded as one of the most iconic models in the brand’s history.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
An Exeter-based BMW dealership has successfully restored a 1988 BMW 320i E30 Coupe it acquired from a customer, after servicing it for more than 20 years.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2077,"featured_media":28918,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-28916","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"yoast_head":"\n