Highlights

• Well presented example with subtle yet effective modifications
• Finished in striking gold colour scheme
• 2.5-litre straight-six engine conversion from a later model
• Tax and MOT exempt due to historic status

The Appeal

 
The E21 era BMW was a real starting point for the marque. Initiating the brand as a maker of truly excellent prestige saloon cars with what would soon become one of their most popular models, the 3 series. Elegantly styled, the E21 was undeniably a great car and one that would cement BMW’s now legendary reputation in the executive saloon market.

Whilst undoubtedly great, none of the 3 series models that followed possessed the same flair and style as the E21 and as such it is this generation that thoroughly wets the appetite of the avid BMW enthusiast and this 1982 model must surely do that more than the average E21.

In its striking gold over brown colour scheme, it has the aesthetics nailed down rather well, but it's when we look under the bonnet that this particular example becomes really interesting, as in the place of its original 2.0 litre unit, we find an upgraded 2.5 litre straight six swapped in from a later E36 generation car as we understand. Which along with some other tasteful modifications, sends this car firmly into the rapidly expanding OEM+ segment of the market. Truly this is a very alluring classic BMW.
 

 

The History and Paperwork

• First registered 18/01/1982
• Supplied by Blue Bell Garage of Wilmslow
• We are informed by the vendor that the car was subject to a later E36 generation 3 series engine swap prior to their acquisition of the car
• Accompanied by a selection of invoices and stamps for general servicing and maintenance work
• Several invoices from classic BMW specialists Classic Bahnstormers for welding, paint and mechanical work
• BMW owners book pack present
• Tax, MOT and ULEZ exempt due to the car’s age and historic status
• V5 registration document present with the vehicle

 

The Condition

• Thoroughly well presented car, finished in a classic colour scheme with a selection of subtle modifications
• Golden exterior paintwork is of a generally very good standard throughout, with just some light blemishing visible in areas
• External chrome trim is in great form and exhibits with a great shine
• The car currently resides on four very high quality snowflake style alloy wheels
• Glass work, lights and badging are in good clean form
• Charming interior space finished in a classic brown colour scheme
• Fitted with an aftermarket wood rimmed Nardi steering wheel
• Seating front and rear is in generally good order, bearing signs of wear commensurate with age
• Contrasting black dash panel in clean shape bar one or two seemingly obligatory cracks on top of the dash
• Auxiliary dash mounted GPS speedo
• Pop out rear windows
• Rare glove box mounted BMW emergency torch still with the car
• Upgraded radio head unit
• The tachometer doesn't appear to function
• The rear backbox has been replaced by a straight length of pipe that produces a sound which gives a hint at what lies beneath the bonnet. This pipe may require further securing as it is currently a little rattly
• One or two areas within the boot appear to be corroded
• The car starts and drives with no obvious faults being evident other than those noted however this vehicle is being auctioned as needing a good going over before any use as there may be additional faults which are not noted

 

The Mechanics

• Originally a 2.0 litre variant
• The car has since been fitted with a more modern 2.5 litre straight six engine by a previous owner of the car
• The vendor informs us that the engine was sourced from an E36 generation 3 Series
• A more modern five speed gearbox has been paired with the more modern engine
• The car fires into life with ease and produces an addictive six cylinder engine note
• We are also informed that the car has had some suspension modifications to alter the stance and camber of the vehicle
• On the road it provides a great overall driving experience with excellent power delivery and crisp gear changes from the five speed box

 

Summary