The Astra Depot Matte Black Grille is a popular upgrade choice for BMW E30 owners looking to modernize the aesthetic of their classic car while maintaining a sleek and aggressive look. This aftermarket grille is designed specifically to replace the stock E30 kidney grille, offering a refreshed, matte black finish that complements the vehicle’s timeless design. In this review, we’ll cover the specifications, installation process, build quality, and overall performance of this grille.
Key Features
- Stylish Matte Black Finish: The matte black finish is ideal for those wanting a more subtle, non-reflective look. It’s perfect for adding a modern edge to the vintage design of the BMW E30.
- Durable Construction: Made from ABS plastic, the grille is both lightweight and durable, designed to withstand various weather conditions without fading or warping.
- Exact Fitment: Designed as a direct replacement, the grille fits seamlessly into the front of the E30, requiring no additional modifications.
- Easy Installation: Comes with all necessary mounting hardware, and installation is straightforward with basic tools, making it a suitable DIY project.
- Affordable Price Point: Compared to original or other premium grilles, Astra Depot offers this grille at an affordable price, making it an excellent option for those looking to enhance their E30 without breaking the bank.
Design & Build Quality
The Astra Depot grille’s matte black finish is evenly applied, giving the car a bold and modern look. The build quality of the grille is solid, crafted from high-quality ABS plastic. ABS is known for its lightweight and durable properties, making it perfect for exterior parts that need to resist weathering. The grille also resists fading and corrosion, even after extended exposure to the sun and other elements, ensuring that the E30 maintains its sleek appearance for years.
Installation Process
Installing the Astra Depot grille is simple. It is designed to be a direct replacement for the original grille, meaning that it perfectly fits the BMW E30 without requiring modifications. The grille comes with the necessary mounting hardware, so there’s no need for additional purchases. With just a screwdriver and about 30 minutes of time, the installation can be completed by any DIY enthusiast.
Performance & Appearance
From a performance standpoint, the grille doesn’t significantly alter airflow to the radiator, meaning it won’t affect the car’s cooling system. However, the grille dramatically improves the front-end appearance of the E30. The matte black finish offers a sharp contrast to the car’s body color, making it stand out in a crowd while retaining the classic E30 charm.
Pros
- Sleek, modern look with matte black finish
- Durable ABS plastic construction
- Direct fit replacement, easy installation
- Affordable price point
- Resistant to weathering and fading
Cons
- Lacks the premium feel of metal grilles
- Matte black may not appeal to owners looking for a more glossy finish
- No significant improvement in functionality, purely aesthetic upgrade
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Astra Depot |
| Model | Matte Black Grille for BMW E30 |
| Material | ABS Plastic |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Compatibility | BMW E30 (1983–1991 models) |
| Fitment | Direct OEM replacement |
| Installation | Bolt-on, no modification required |
| Dimensions | OEM specifications |
| Weight | Approx. 2 lbs |
| Included | Grille and mounting hardware |
| Weather Resistance | UV-resistant, fade-proof |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
| Price Range | $20 – $80 USD |
Conclusion
The Astra Depot Matte Black Grille for the BMW E30 is a fantastic aesthetic upgrade for any E30 enthusiast. Its sleek design, durable build, and straightforward installation process make it a must-have for those looking to modernize their classic car without making drastic changes. While it doesn’t improve functionality, the grille delivers in terms of style and durability at an affordable price point.
FAQs
Is the Astra Depot Matte Black Grille a direct replacement for the OEM grille?
Yes, the Astra Depot grille is designed to be a direct replacement for the factory grille on the BMW E30. It matches the OEM dimensions, ensuring a perfect fit without the need for modifications.
What tools are required for installation?
The installation is straightforward and requires only basic tools such as a screwdriver. All necessary mounting hardware is included in the package.
How long does the installation take?
The installation typically takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on your experience with DIY automotive projects.
Is the matte black finish durable?
Yes, the grille is made from high-quality ABS plastic and features a UV-resistant, fade-proof matte black finish that is designed to withstand weather conditions and retain its appearance over time.
Is this grille compatible with other BMW models or only the E30?
This specific grille is designed exclusively for BMW E30 models. It is unlikely to fit other BMW models without modifications.