Described as a survivor, this 1981 BMW 320i presents very well in its excellent original paint and upholstery. Under one owner from new until 2013, with excellent records, it appears to be have been impeccably maintained as well. For whatever reason, the E21 3 Series (the first to have been officially called a 3) have been skipped over by most enthusiasts who either seek the E10 2002s or its successor, the E30. This may simply be due to the era, when manufacturers were burdened by emissions and safety regulations before figuring out an engineering solution whereby they could comply without compromise. This impression is further jaded by the later cars (1980-83) receiving a smaller 1.8 liter engine (US opting to keep the 320 moniker as it was the only E21 available here). While the 1.8 is somewhat less powerful, with just over 100 hp, the later cars also benefitted greatly from chassis refinements that shed about 80 kilos. The result was a more spry performer, better in fact than the highly revered, top-of-the-line 2002tii which came before it. The 320i was also a much more solid feeling car than the 2002, with smooth, precise shift linkages and a 50/50 weight distribution (100 kg more than the 2002) that gave the car a more firmly planted rear end. This particular 320i is also nicely optioned with air conditioning (not working), manual sunroof and AM/FM. It has its original toolkit, manuals and sales documentation as well as a stack of receipts. With the values of outstanding-example 320i’s poised to leap, there aren’t many left as original and tidy as this one. Find it here on Craigslist in Pleasonton CA priced to sell at $7,900.
