E30 318/325e buying questions

[Michiel van Wessem <jmvw@xxxxxxxxx>]

Hi people,

I'm out to buy my first car (31 years old :) . I want an E30, because of
their ride/handling. I don't need a fast car and I like fuel economy - so
I'm looking at both 318 and 325e's. And I have a bunch of questions for you.

Which of the two is better? I don't care about acceleration - both will be
good enough for me. What I find important - which lasts longer? 

This is important to me, because the car I'll buy will likely have a good
number of miles. I want to spend under $4000, preferably $2500-$3000. You
reckon I'll get a good car for that?

I've seen ads for both 325e's and 325's. Is there a difference?

What does the s sport suffix on these cars mean? Different interior?

Do any of these cars have the mileage indicator? (I think that's neat) 

Do they all have cruise control? 

How much rust should I expect?

Thanks a lot! Tonight I'm going to look at a 1985 318 with 96000 miles,
listed for $2900.

Michiel

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