Highlights
- One of only 160 examples produced exclusively for the UK market
- Last serviced less than 500 miles ago
- MOT valid to December 2026
- Only 61,000 miles on the clock
- 3.0-litre straight-six petrol, six-speed manual, 265bhp
- Highly original throughout
The Appeal
What you're looking at here is among the most sought-after variants of the E81 1 Series. With only 160 examples built, all designated for the UK market, the LE (Limited Edition) paired BMW's characterful 265bhp naturally aspirated straight-six with M Sport chassis enhancements in that familiar, compact, rear-wheel-drive package - a combination that has earned it a devoted following among driving enthusiasts. It's a rare, modern, yet oh-so-pleasing nostalgic recapture of a truly visceral hot hatch.
This example has spent much of its life in the salt-free Channel Islands, where it was carefully maintained. It boasts an admirably low 61,000 miles on the clock, and really is quite the looker. Recently serviced with a new oil cooler fitted at the same time, and reportedly running as it should, this is a great opportunity to take on a rare and seriously desirable rear-wheel-drive hatchback.
Key Information
- Mileage: 61,000 miles
- Country of registration: UK (reimported from Guernsey)
- MOT status: valid until December 2026
- Technical specs: 3.0-litre straight-six petrol, six-speed manual, 265bhp
- Paperwork: V5 document
The Detail
- New oil cooler fitted during the recent service
- Bodywork in fine order with good paintwork
- Highly original throughout
- Underside carries age-commensurate patina
- 'Style 216' alloy wheels refurbished and fitted with new tyres
- Driver's seat bolster reconditioned due to slight deterioration of the leatherette upholstery
- Instruments are clean and legible
- Dashboard in good condition
- The vendor states the car is in fine mechanical order

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:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..






































































































































































