BMW’s E36 3-Series was a statement of intent, the car that would catapult the firm to the top of the executive saloon sector.
It did that, and more. It was so good and available in such a bewildering array of trim, engine and body styles that it also sounded the death knell for mainstream company cars like the Mondeo and Vectra.
Well built and sought-after, it is no surprise that survivors are fairly plentiful. But very few are quite like this example, an ultra low mileage, one owner from new coupe. That it is a base spec car - albeit with some desirable options - surely only enhances its rarity and appeal, because there is something very right about the unadorned E36 template.
Highly original, right down to the supplying dealer plates, this is a fantastic opportunity to discover what a virtually ‘as new’ E36 is like, with all the driving dynamism and engagement that implies.
The History and Paperwork
First UK registered 28th October 1995
Thick history file supplied with car including receipts and old MOTs
We are told that the original book pack in good condition is with the car
3 keys
Unfortunately we were unable to ascertain when the car was last serviced
MOT records confirm the low mileage
MOT to 24th August 2024 with no advisories
Has covered just 5,000 miles since 2005
The Interior
Virtually ‘factory fresh’ interior with barely any signs of use
Seat fabric retains its colour and appears clean and unmarked or stained
The only indications of age are loosening of the fabric inserts for the doors
The rear cabin side trims also show slightly loose fabric
Trim and switchgear present in seemingly as-new condition
Oft-used trim items like the gear knob and handbrake handle are barely worn
Carpets continue the theme with good conditions and no scuffs or marks
Factory fitted optional electric sliding sunroof
Manually adjustable steering column
Three spoke sports leather-rimmed steering wheel with only very light sheen
Auto dimming rear view mirror
Electric windows and electric mirror operation
Factory supplied with radio set up and fitted with period correct Sony radio cassette
Boot-mounted tool kit is complete and appears to be unused
Clean boot area with no marks, scuffs or stains to trim or carpet
The Exterior
Original Montreal Blue metallic paintwork a popular in-period choice
Paintwork presents very well with very signs of age or use
Straight panels with no visible dents, dings or scratches
There is the odd stone chip to note but nothing detracts from the overall impression
Both wing mirrors carry a handful of stone chips
For completeness, the front nearside bumper edge is lightly chipped
The BMW LA Sports Style 15in alloy wheels are in good condition and well kept
They appear to be original and display few if any marks
The front nearside wheel is very lightly kerbed, the others appear unkerbed
The rubber trim to bumpers and side skirts has faded slightly
It would likely respond well to a valeting regime
Evergreen tyres fitted with good tread
Michelin Pilot steel spare wheel unused and appears to be factory original
Boot and bonnet struts work correctly and hold the panels upright
Lights are clean, undamaged and with clear, unmisted lenses
Original dealer plates, rear plate is delaminating slightly
Badges present well with no fading or delamination
Glasswork is clean, apparently unscratched and unmisted
Underside very presentable with no issues to note
No structural advisories on last or recent MOTs
Strut tops solid and free of even surface corrosion
The Mechanics
1,596cc M43B16 100bhp 4cyl fuel injected BMW engine
5spd manual gearbox
Optional M Sport suspension fitted at factory
Under bonnet area is very smartly presented
Thick history file indicates attentive owner
Summary
The E36 showed that compact executive cars didn’t have to be fun to drive or practical and comfortable - they could be both. The coupe body style was particularly svelte. While many buyers gravitated to the big-engined versions to exploit the chassis dynamics, canny buyers knew that the lighter, lower powered cars were just as engaging.
Opportunities to acquire a miniscule mileage, one owner 90s coupe do not come along often. Whether you’re here for the driving dynamics or the nostalgia, this delightful car is surely highly tempting.
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.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
More about buying with us
1995 BMW E36 316i Coupe
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