Highlights
- Stunning condition
- Drives fantastically
- Plenty of original components
- Comprehensively restored
- No expense spared
The Appeal
The E21 is a very significant model in BMW’s history, as it marked the very first generation of the manufacturer's iconic 3-Series. Throughout its production years, the E21 was offered with a range of engine configurations and sold rather well, prior to being succeeded by the E30.
Today, very few rust-free examples of these vehicles exist, and pristine examples such as this very car, seldom pop up on the market. If you’re looking for an absolutely stunning collection piece, or simply wish to choose the very best E21 example for your next weekend toy, this is the car for you.
The History and Paperwork
- Restored example
- Just 53k shown on the clock
- Fantastic collection of paperwork
- V5C document present
- No expense spared
This stunning BMW E21 began life in 1982, and judging by the superb state of original components and the low mileage covered, it is safe to assume that the car has had an easy life. After being acquired by the current keeper in 2008, the vehicle’s relaxed lifestyle continued further, seldom venturing out, save for sunny days.
After over a decade of ownership in 2019, the current keeper then decided that this BMW deserved to be further preserved, and the vehicle’s extensive restoration process began. As the included paperwork will reflect, the vehicle has had absolutely no expense spared, with OEM parts being sourced from Germany wherever possible. The restoration was carried out by renowned specialist RBW Classic Cars in North Yorkshire and has been performed to the absolute highest standard.
Full details of all labour and high-quality parts used are detailed within the vehicle’s extensive paperwork. Included are invoices for rust repair, bodywork, engine work, mechanical components, undersealing, and much more. Also included are invoices for OEM parts, previous MOT certificates, and the V5C document ready for the lucky new owner.
From next year, this car can be listed with the DVLA as an Historic vehicle (Road Tax and MOT will no longer be needed).
From next year, this car can be listed with the DVLA as an Historic vehicle (Road Tax and MOT will no longer be needed).
The Interior
- Original interior
- Excellent condition
- Packed with character
- Navy Blue upholstery
What makes this classic 320 so fantastic, is its combination of pristinely restored bodywork, with original components. Not looking to strip this charming BMW of its character, the current owner has insisted on retaining the original Navy Blue interior, which we simply love.
Despite being the original interior from 1982, there are only the most minor signs of wear to be found within. Both front seats still look fantastic and are in a condition that would quite easily rival any modern vehicle on the road today. The rear seats are in a similar state, appearing as if they have hardly ever been used throughout the vehicle’s life.
The steering wheel, dashboard and all contact surfaces such as the gearknob and handbrake are also in superb condition, showing very few signs of use. Other than the Blaupunkt radio requiring a little attention to return to full working order here in the UK, all interior controls and instruments work perfectly and show minimal signs of use. To enjoy the sun, you’re also treated to a manual sunroof, which sits perfectly amidst the well-preserved, original headliner.
In keeping with the overall theme of the interior, buyers will be pleasantly surprised upon taking a peek within the boot, which still presents itself in its original state. A true sign to reflect that this boot has never required any attention is the original Ziebart rustproofing peaking through towards the sides. In the boot, you'll also find original tools, jack, and the spare wheel.
Overall, the interior of this BMW has been beautifully preserved, and will no doubt continue to present itself fantastically for many more years to come.
The Exterior
- Alpine White paintwork
- Professionally restored to the highest standard
- Superb condition
- Original chrome trim
- Original BMW glass
- Classic E21 styling
This E21 is in superb condition and looks absolutely spectacular in its crisp Alpine White paintwork. A true testament to the restoration, this BMW is one of those few cars where pictures alone simply don’t do the condition justice and deserves to be admired in person.
The fresh Alpine White paintwork is in immaculate condition and is clearly the result of a truly professional process from start to finish. All chrome work around the vehicle is indeed believed to be original, as are the BMW badges front and rear. Retaining these original pieces does wonders for the vehicle’s character and charm.
Unlike many modified examples of E21 BMWs, this fine example sits on correctly sized wheels, with plenty of tyre sidewall to suit. All wheels are of course in excellent condition and are wrapped in a matching set of Evergreen tyres, with plenty of tread for the lucky new owner to enjoy.
With absolutely nothing negative to note about how this gorgeous E21 presents itself, there is no doubt that the vehicle would be the perfect addition to a collection, and would make the absolute perfect show piece.
The Mechanics
- Drives flawlessly
- Happily keeps up with modern traffic
- Full working order
- New cylinder head
- Refreshed engine
- New suspension
- Plenty of new parts
Buyers will be pleased to know that this E21 starts up right away, and performs absolutely superbly. The car pulls well throughout each gear, and will easily surprise modern cars with its performance, even to this day.
As part of the vehicle’s restoration, the 1990cc engine benefits from a new cylinder head and plenty of new parts. The full details can be found on an included invoice, but key parts include a new head gasket, water pump, timing belt & tensioner, new manifolds, new thermostat and housing, and plenty more. The engine is also now fitted with a Weber carb for greater reliability and performance, but the buyer will also receive the original Solex unit with the sale. The Solex Carburetor has been newly refurbished, with a Solex kit, by a carb specialist.
In true BMW fashion, it’s also an extremely comfortable ride, handling speed bumps and uneven road surfaces with complete ease. The brakes work perfectly, as do all other mechanical components.
You would be hard-pressed to find a classic vehicle that drives and performs as well as this fine example.
Summary
This BMW E21 320 should be at the very top of anyone’s list, whether you’re looking for a pristine show car or the next addition to your collection. Having been comprehensively restored within the last couple of years, this BMW is in superb condition, showing off its fresh Alpine White exterior, with plenty of original parts throughout. The car also performs without fault, ensuring many happy miles ahead for the lucky new owner.
This is a car you simply cannot afford to miss out on.
This is a car you simply cannot afford to miss out on.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
