Description
BMW E21 316 Baur: Exceptional Car/ Interesting History
The BMW E21 was the first generation of the ‘3’ Series of compact executive cars and was produced from 1975 to 1983. The model was exclusively built in a two-door coupe body style – there was no touring or convertible option from the factory.
Karosserie Baur identified the market opportunity for a cabriolet and, with support from BMW, manufactured an open top E21 that combined a folding rear section with a removable targa style panel over the driver and front passenger.
The result of this alliance was a stylish convertible that was popular with the upwardly mobile – indeed the first owner of our own car was HRH Prince Hashhour Bensalld, registration number 11 HRH – and each and every 3 series model range thereafter has featured a factory option cabriolet. Lesson learnt by BMW.
Jamie and I like this car and have been discussing the potential sale of her with the owner for some time - we think she has been worth the wait.
The E21 has always been an eminently pretty car with clean coachlines offset by the dynamic ‘step-nose’ and twin kidney radiator grill and, on our example, a dual headlamp upgrade has been fitted (originals are with the car). The Schwarz Black (Code 086) is in outstanding condition and works well with the excellent brightwork, re-trimmed Baur top and factory option Alpina wheels.
The interior does not disappoint and is wonderful in its simplicity with the signature wrap around dash. The car was re-trimmed in 2020 and all seats, door cards, carpets and dashboard are excellent – it is simply like stepping back into 1980.
Mechanically the car has been well looked after throughout the it's life with 8 service stamps up to 84k miles in 2015 and a full service in 2022 (current mileage 87k miles) with invoices for more recent work.
The car comes with a nice history folder including the original BMW Book Pack, previous MOT’s, lots of invoices and contemporary sales literature. Interestingly the history file confirms that the E21 was sold on 01/ 01/ 79 by Richard Cound (Cound BMW of Gloucester) to HRH Bensalld – what a nice sale to start the year!
Today the car is in exceptional condition inside & out and drives as good as she looks
We recommend viewing and an early test drive to fully appreciate the charms of this car
