- Seller: Mitchell G (Contact)
- Location: Ottsville, Pennsylvania
- Mileage: 100,884 Shown
- Chassis #: 5490467
- Title Status: Clean
- Engine: 1.8-Liter Inline-4
- Transmission: 4-Speed Manual
Before the 3-Series became BMW’s best-known sport sedan, the E21 helped establish the formula. Compact proportions, rear-wheel drive, tidy styling, and a manual transmission made the early 320i an engaging alternative to the larger, softer cars of the era. This 1979 BMW 320i has reportedly been garage-kept its entire life and has been off the road for more than two decades, making it an interesting project for someone who appreciates the early 3-Series’ simplicity. Located in Ottsville, Pennsylvania, it is offered as a Barn Finds Exclusive with an asking price of $5,000 or best offer.
Power comes from a fuel-injected 1.8-liter inline-four paired with a 4-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows 100,884 miles, and the car is currently listed as not running. According to the seller, the BMW was last on the road 22 years ago, so the next owner should plan on going through all the major systems before it will be ready for regular use.
The seller describes the car as a garage find and it has clearly been sitting for a long time. Photos show that the car is largely complete with the classic quad-headlight front end, factory-style wheels, and a clean overall profile. The body is described as clean and solid, though prospective buyers should inspect the floors, rockers, rear shock towers, and trunk carefully, as these are important areas on older BMWs. You’ll also want to take a closer look at the passenger door to see what is going on below the trim line.
One notable missing piece is the driver-side rear side window, which will need to be replaced. Otherwise, the car appears complete. The photos show the engine bay, interior, underside, and exterior, giving buyers a better sense of the car’s current condition.
Inside, the cabin shows age and debris from its time in storage, but retains its basic factory layout. The front and rear seats, door panels, steering wheel, pedals, and dashboard appear present, making this a reasonable starting point for a driver-quality revival rather than a stripped parts car.
This 1979 BMW 320i might not appeal to someone looking for a ready-to-go classic, but it could be a rewarding project for an enthusiast who wants to sort and preserve an early 3-Series. Given what 2002s and E30-generation 3-series are going for these days, E21S seem like a bargain that blends the positive traits of both its predecessor and successor. With a clean title, manual gearbox, and long-term indoor storage history, it has the right ingredients to be a great find. For someone looking for a vintage BMW project that predates the E30 era, this E21 deserves a closer look.
Looks like a non-A/C car…