The wagon version of the BMW E30 has an interesting background story. Back in the ‘80s, BMW engineer Max Reisbock drove a 3-Series to work that he had converted from a sedan into a wagon. The execs were so impressed they agreed to mass-produce such cars with only minimal changes, giving rise to the 3-Series Touring lineup as we know it. Rewind to present day, and one is up for grabs at BaT with a better engine and other mods.
The stock 2.0-liter four-pot made room for an M52 inline-six mill that you could find, say, in the E36 that followed years later. The power went from 120 to 190 metric horsepower (from 118 to 187 hp; from 88 to 140 kW, respectively) thanks to the swap. No less importantly, the torque went from 164 to 280 Nm (121 to 201 lb-ft). The way we understand it, though, the numbers are approximated based on the paper specs of these respective engines.
At any rate, this Touring has more to offer than just a capable mill. The listing mentions coil-over suspension, brakes sourced from a BMW 540i (E34), an AC on board that wasn’t originally there by design, new bumpers and 17-inch aftermarket rims.
The mileage is unknown. The bidding is at $22,750 with several hours remaining on the clock. It is possible that the final price will jump up, though, given that the 3-Series Touring was never imported into the States and is considered something of an exotic there.