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[Doug Wright <dgwright@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I got an E30 a few months ago, and I'm trying to figure out what I want to
do with it (i.e. how much time and money I want to put into building it up).
It's an '86 base model 325, 5-spd, 2-door, with about 200k miles (the
odometer is stuck at 184k).  My dad bought it new, then my brother had it
for a few years, so I know the history pretty well.  It still handles and
runs great, but is badly in need of a paint job, some upholstry work, and
the passenger side window won't open.  So far, I've just fixed some minor
problems (interior lights, taillight gaskets, interior door handle), got
some new badges, and added an Alpine cd player (the factory tape deck was
shot).  I'm not afraid to work on it though ... I've got a Jeep that I've
been building up for about 5 years (I'm also on the XJ list here at digest.net).

So, is it worth putting money into?  What is an e30 capable of with the
right modifications?  It's always seemed a little sluggish off the line, and
the owner's manual says it only has 121 hp ... not much.  I'd love to do
autocross sometime, but I'd at least like something that's fun to drive on
the road.

It's just got some generic tires (195/65-R14) and factory alloys, so wheels
and tires are up on the list.  I think I saw that 205/50-R15s will fit, but
I'd might like to go even lower profile than that if possible.  What are the
limits?

Thanks,
Doug

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