BMW’s first-generation 3 Series, the E21, tends not to receive the same amount of love as its predecessor (the E10 2002) or its successor (the E30 3 Series). However, that shouldn’t stop you from considering this 1982 320i that is available here on eBay without a reserve.
Located in Dallas, Texas, the seller notes this E21 spent most of its life in Oklahoma and Texas. The exterior of the vehicle seems to be in decent shape overall, though there are various dents, some paint fade on the roof, and minor rust spots. Overall, it looks like it could be a fun driver or even a good car to build into a cheap track day racer.
The drivetrain in this BMW has logged nearly 176,682 miles during its lifetime, and here’s a bonus – the odometer works.
The cabin of this 3 Series is a bit of a problem area – the driver’s seat is torn up, and part of the center dash is also missing. However, a decent pair of bucket seats should remedy this problem, and provide a sportier feel.
BMW’s trusty M10 4-cylinder engine is under the hood of this 320i. Being an E21 that was made during the later years of its production run, this model features a 5-speed manual transmission, as opposed to a 4-speed gearbox.
With no reserve on this auction, this 320i could go for cheap. While it’s not the most desirable BMW model out there, this example is in good shape and would surely make a fun driver, especially with some new seats. Would you snatch up this silver E21, or would you pass on this under-appreciated 3 Series?
Okay price, so far but there is a hole in the trunk floor/wheel well, so be prepared for rust issues. These are really fun cars to drive.
A shame it isnt a 6 cyl.
I looked at the ebay site and the current bid ($1345) is about what the car is worth.
Had one with the 4 speed, it was a blast to drive.
I’d think given how 70’s and 80’s cars are taking off in value that it won’t be long before an E21 320i is going for strong money.
This one looks like its a smart buy and for a small investment you’d have a nice driver that’ll go up in value in the next 5 years.
Interesting comments. It is going to get sold fairly inexpensively, I believe. Already have a 328is (six cylinder), have never driven this model. Would probably really feel the lack of “grunt”. I like nearly everything they make, but have no room for this one. Good luck to successful bidder !
Boy, someone bought a lot of fun for little money. Ended: Mar 05, 2019 , 10:18PM
Winning bid:US $1,685.00
[ 28 bids ]
leiniedude – they sure did ! If you read my comment, I’d have grabbed it, but no space currently. Have friends in that area of “Big T”, so could have combined fun with fun. Visiting them, going to Galveston for some warm weather, Gulf swimming and crawdads & then back to this frigid North with another older Bimmer. Sigh….
LOL stud! Send some crawdads and shine back here to Wisconsin! And I do not mean sunshine. Whats the other old Bimmer? Have a fun journey bog! Take care, Mike. Oh, Heaven Hell or Houston!
leiniedude – That was a “dream sequence”…I’ve done it a few times before, but not this year. Therefore, no shine, nor other fun stuff this year. We have similar weather, as I’m just North of Chicago. My other Bimmer is a “somewhat !” tuned ’98 328is with various M sport stuff. So, better than stock, but not at M3/4 level. Just as well with snow, ice, slush etc. Was strongly tempted to buy a ’00 M5 5sp in med metallic blue and black interior a few years ago. After test driving it on Lake Shore Drive, I passed. Why ? I like having my drivers license…LOL