1996 BMW E36 316i Coupe
Highlights
- Low documented mileage of 53,000 miles
- One former registered keeper from new
- Full service history to 2023 with 200 miles since
- Well kept and very original E36 coupe
The Appeal
The E36 is key to BMW’s current success. Helped by changes to company car lists, it kicked off the rise of the premium brands at the expense of Ford, Vauxhall and all the rest.
But put that to one side for a moment. What really made the E36 so successful was how good it was. There were endless engine options and different body styles to suit virtually every buyer. But every version stuck true to the idea of the ‘ultimate driving machine’ - namely an engaging and agile car quite unlike the competition.
This 316i Coupe may not have the kudos of a M3 but it shares the sporting DNA, including that crisp styling. It exudes an endearing honesty and simplicity that would make it perfect as a distinctive daily driver or emerging weekend classic.
Considering the condition it is perhaps no surprise to learn that this is a one keeper, low mileage example with full service history. It is pleasingly factory standard inside and out. It has only covered 200 miles since the last service - in 2023 - and comes to market with long MOT to February 2024. Unmolested E36s like this one are getting very rare. A lucky find for its second keeper.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered in the UK on 1st August 1996
- VIN records show it was built in June 1996
- 1 former owner
- 1 key
- Full set of factory handbooks in good condition
- Service book with 15 stamps to 52,977 miles in January 2023
- Now showing 53,152 miles
- MOT to 27th February 2025 with minor advisories and 53,143 miles showing on test
The Condition
- Well kept Samoa Blue metallic paintwork which appears to be original
- Paintwork is well kept showing only minor cosmetic marks in photographs
- Bodywork similarly well kept with straight panels and no known accident damage
- Exterior fittings show some scuffs and marks, such as to bumper corners and front spoiler underside
- Sits on factory 15in alloy wheels in good order with light kerbing to rims
- Original and unmodified grey fabric interior in generally very well kept condition
- Clover grey fabric seats in generally good order but showing some driver’s seat wear
- Door cards in matching trim with some fabric loosening to note in photographs
- Headlining is tidy and stain free but shows areas of sagging
- Carpets and trim through cabin and boot areas in good order showing few signs of wear
- Fitted with a period-correct radio cassette system
- Well kept underside but with MOT advisories to note
The Mechanics
- Revised M43 1,596cc 100bhp 4cyl fuel injected engine
- 4spd automatic gearbox with switchable modes
- Factory tool kit in boot
- Full service history to 52,977 miles with 200 miles covered since
- No reported running or driving issues
- A couple of minor MOT advisories to note but not excessive for age of car
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. If requested we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]
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| Bid Amount | Increment |
|---|---|
| £0 to £9,999 | £100.00 |
| £10,000 to £49,999 | £250.00 |
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| £100,000 + | £1,000.00 |
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