Photos provided by the seller

Highlights

Stylish German coupe
Relatively good condition overall
Totally original model

The Appeal

The E36 is potentially the most overlooked of the 3-Series generations, but with great looks, we struggle to see why. Launched in 1990, it came in various body shapes with the coupe being the most recognisable thanks to the M3 of the time.

This 323i also fits the coupe format meaning it very much resembles its range-topping sibling visually while the six-cylinder engine and manual transmission add up to make for a baby M3 in many ways. The car is very clean both inside and out bar a few imperfections and is said to drive well.

A great stepping stone on the way up to one of the many legendary German sports saloons, this E36 3-Series would be ideal for any younger petrol head in need of practicality.

History and Paperwork

First registered in 1998
4 owners from new
With current owner since 2009
Regularly serviced throughout its life
Service history includes both main dealer and independent garages
Many invoices included with sale
Original BMW document holder with car
Includes owner’s manuals
12 months MOT with no advisories
2 keys plus a master key for copies

The Interior

High spec interior features trip computer, M sport leather steering wheel and CD radio
Black leather seats show few signs of wear
Black plastic dashboard in great condition, no apparent signs of cracking
Carpets in overall good shape
Boot in great condition
Features Goodyear spare wheel and almost complete toolkit
Fitted with functional electric sunroof
Functioning electric door mirror adjustment
Lining missing under sunroof cover
Slightly worn driver’s side footwell carpet
Original stereo still fitted, CD changer in boot no longer works
A few electrical gremlins: central locking and driver side window motor both broken

The Exterior

Great E36 coupe body shape
Nice Arctic Silver paint in good shape overall
Underside looks fairly clean
Plenty of tread on the matching Aplus tyres according to the owner
Bubbles in paintwork in places
Worn BMW badges on the front and rear, as well as on nearside wheels
Wheels in good shape overall, bar scuff marks on rear right and the worn centre caps
Some marks on front bumper, notably the scraped lip

The Mechanics

2.5-litre inline-six engine, including VANOS
Five-speed manual transmission
Recipe for a great driver’s car
Engine bay in presentable condition
Car drives as it should
Owner mentions a squeaky steering wheel at times

Summary

Despite a few imperfections both visually and with some of the interior features, this 1997 E36 is surely an interesting offering. A mix of VANOS, a manual engine and the sound of a straight-six blasting out the exhaust are all prime ingredients for a great driver’s car while plenty of space inside means it is also ready for life as a daily driver.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

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