1972 BMW Bavaria

I have a soft spot for the Bavaria. It’s not because it’s the best looking BMW from the 1970s, or the fastest. It’s not the most collectable, either – but as a result, the Bavaria might just be the rarest of the 1970s BMWs. To me, I can appreciate this coming from a background of loving Audis – most of which are quite rare today. The look of the Bavaria is even very similar to the Audi 100, and like the 100 very few examples are left kicking around. But the Bavaria was nonetheless an important move for BMW, taking on the larger executive market with an upscale big-body 4-door:

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1972 BMW Bavaria on eBay

Year: 1972
Model: Bavaria
Engine: 3.0 liter inline-6
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Mileage: 81,000 mi
Price: Reserve Auction

Clean, Original, California Car…

This is my 1972 BMW E3 Bavaria. It is entirely original besides the racing Dynamic RGP, 16×7.5 wheels. The originals are also included. The odometer reads 80,xxx miles. The engine runs very well. It is in need of a valve job and the carburetors should be tuned. I have a brand new carburetor rebuild kit and a handful of other items that can assist you in taking good care of her.

This car is an underground classic, soon to be rediscovered. It is the brother to the E9 coupe 3.0CS. It is regarded as the predecessor to the 5 and 7 series sedans and is generally considered the forbearer to the BMW high performance sedan.

My reason for parting ways is I am moving into the city and have no garage space anymore.

Thank you for reading and message me if you have any questions

I really respect the seller for having maintained what appears to be one of the best condition Bavarias we’ve seen on these pages in a while, but I don’t think the world is quite ready to embrace it as a rediscovered classic. Like the Audi 100, people will always be glad to see it, and I’m sure many have stories involving Bavarias. For example, one of my high school teachers had a Bavaria and was insanely proud of it. I also remember the first time I stumbled across one at a junkyard – I just stood and stared at the rear 3/4 clip; while it was reminiscent of the 2002 it was prettier to me – I think the best aspect of the car. There are some obvious condition issues like split seats and what appear to be some creases in the body panels on the passenger side. As with all older German cars, you’ll need to be vigilant against rust. The Racing Dynamics wheels also look out of place to me, but the originals are included and look great. All in all, this looks like an affordable and unique way to express your love for 1970s BMWs – flying a flag few do. As with the old Audis, it’ll be a mix of people who smile and immediately start to tell you their wonderful Bavaria story and the balance of the masses who simply ask “What is that?”

-Carter