1995 BMW E36 316i Coupe

Vendor supplied photos 

Highlights


  • One owner from new
  • Just 21,648 miles on the clock 
  • Thick history file 
  • Highly original, right down to the dealer plates
  • Long MOT to August 2024 with no advisories 

The Appeal 


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
  • Anthracite Clover flat weave fabric seats highly preserved with minimal wear
  • 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.

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Vehicle specification
  • Year 1995
  • Make BMW
  • Model 3 Series 316i
  • Colour Dark blue
  • Odometer 21,648 Miles
  • Engine size 1596
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Trade
  • Town Middlesbrough
  • Location Yorkshire
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
9 bids from 6 bidders
  • 1300.su•••• £5,500 27/09/23
  • robin-s•••• £5,250 27/09/23
  • king.ol•••• £5,000 27/09/23
  • robin-s•••• £4,800 27/09/23
  • 1300.su•••• £4,250 26/09/23
  • robin-s•••• £4,000 24/09/23
  • andrewh•••• £1,300 22/09/23
  • Philpot•••• £1,100 22/09/23
  • Jonesy8•••• £1,000 22/09/23

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