325ix

The 325iX is the all-wheel-drive variant of the BMW 3 Series (E30), produced by BMW from 1987 to 1991. It represents the introduction of permanent all-wheel drive to the early 3 Series line, offering improved traction in poor weather and on slippery surfaces while retaining the compact sedan format.

Power and drivetrain details: The 325iX used a 2.5-liter inline-six engine (M20B25), producing around 168 horsepower and approximately 225 Nm of torque. It was typically paired with a five-speed manual transmission; in some markets, a four-speed automatic was available. The drivetrain is permanent all-wheel drive, featuring a center viscous coupling that distributes torque between the front and rear axles, with a conventional rear differential driving the rear wheels.

Performance and handling: The AWD system provides enhanced grip compared with rear-wheel-drive 3 Series models, particularly in adverse conditions. The additional drivetrain hardware adds weight, which can affect overall agility and fuel efficiency relative to its RWD siblings. Equipment varied by market and year, with anti-lock braking systems (ABS) offered as an option on later builds.

Market presence and legacy: Production numbers for the 325iX were relatively limited compared with its rear-wheel-drive counterparts, making it a rarer model today. It was primarily marketed in European markets but was also available in select other regions. Today the 325iX is remembered for introducing BMW’s AWD approach to the compact 3 Series and remains of interest to collectors and enthusiasts who value its unique drivetrain configuration within the E30 generation.