Highlights
- Timewarp E21 in great condition
- Long MOT to October 2024 with no advisories
- Low mileage with FSH
- Long term current keeper
- Very usable four-seater classic
The Appeal
The E21 launched a new name for BMW’s mid-size saloon, 3-Series, but owed a lot to the 2002. And that was a good thing, because the earlier car was brilliant.
The same was true of the E21, its blend of quality and the Munich firm’s dedicated approach to handling and driver engagement making it a sales success. 1977 saw the mainstay 320 gain the sweet M20 6cyl engine running on a Solex 4-barrel carburettor.
This 1980 320 is a rarity, an entirely standard, unmodified car in very good condition. As a usable, practical four-seater classic it looks hard to beat - it would be perfect as a daily driver, helped by its relaxing automatic gearbox.
Full history back to its early days and a long term current keeper add to the reassuring sense of honesty about this car. A long MOT to October 2024 with no advisories completes that picture.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered on 1st April 1980
- 12 registered keepers
- Current keeper since 19th September 2008
- Thick history file carefully documented in folder
- We are told this includes almost all the available history dating back to the car’s early days
- Finished in the original colour
- 70,600 miles which we are told is warranted by the history file
- MOT to 12th October 2024 with no advisories and 70,418 miles showing on test
The Condition
- Finished in original beige finish which is in good order across car
- No visible signs of bodywork deterioration or corrosion
- Very light rust stains in tiny areas on some arches to note
- Body panels particularly arches and sills present well with no issues to report
- Fitted with optional factory multi-spoke alloys in fair condition
- Tyres show good tread and condition
- Steel factory spare in boot
- Underside in very good condition with no structural issues on last MOT
- Original and unrestored interior with beige cloth seats showing very light wear
- Unmodified interior with clean headlining and carpets
- JVC CD player fitted but otherwise standard inside
- Dashboard and switchgear both well kept
- Front and rear seatbelts fitted
- Boot area presents well with clean carpet and solid metalwork
The Mechanics
- 1,990cc M20 6cyl BMW engine
- Solex 4-barrel carburettor
- 0-60mph in 10secs
- 3spsd factory automatic gearbox
- Kenlowe fan fitted with manual thermostat adjustment
- Full service history dating back to car’s early days
- It appears the exhaust back box is slightly holed
- No reported running or mechanical issues
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:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ 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.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
