1982 BMW 323i

If the E30 no longer represents the bargain performance that it once did, perhaps the model that preceded it does – the E21. Arguably the most desirable of the E21s is the Euro-spec 323i – one of which has popped up today:

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1982 BMW 323i on eBay

Year: 1982
Model: 323i
Engine: 2.3 liter inline-6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 87,428 mi
Price: Reserve auction

We have again lowered the reserve and are relisting. Thank you for your continued interest in this car. It is a 1982 BMW 323i Euro coupe located in Brooklyn, New York City. It is both too tempting to the casual passersby and too expensive to garage—this fine automobile needs to find a home with an enthusiast who appreciates the quality vehicles BMW made in these years and exported to the U.S. in small numbers.

This car has 87,428 miles, is original, never been in an accident and had the same owner since 1988 until I bought a year ago. As you can see from the photos it has been well maintained. And it has both a new water pump and new timing belt so those worries, about the only ones ever mentioned as trouble spots, have both been addressed.

The car is truly in superb condition both inside and out and underneath. No car is truly rust free, but from what I can tell and what anyone else can see, is minor surface rust on some of the undercarriage that is so light that it can be removed with steel brush.

All BMWs of this vintage have begun to appreciate and this may be the one fun car that performs like a Porsche, costs about a third of even a modest 912 model but will appreciate in value provided you maintain it as I have—and that’s a difficult combination of attributes to find in any car these days. I am not a mechanic nor a true BMW aficionado but I do have good knowledge of automobiles generally including mechanical and restoration details. I have owned many fine class cars over the years.

This car is not perfect and is sold “as is” with no guarantee of any kind. I urge the buyer to personally inspect and drive the car if possible. Long experience has told us that some buyers expect perfection from an old car–if you want perfection you should buy a new BMW.

Shipping is the responsibility of the buyer although I will assist as much as possible.

Questions are welcomed and I will do my best to give prompt and thorough responses.

This is an unusual car and one that will give enjoyment for many miles. It has good looks and good performance. You’ll be happy to have it in your garage.

Condition overall of the car looks great, and with the period-modification Centras it’s a neat looker. I’ve always loved the dual exhaust on the early 323is; it hinted at the added performance of this model. Inside looks tidy with some inviting looking sport seats and 3-spoke wheel. With mechanical updates complete and a great overall look, this looks to be a turn-key classic. Despite that, it’s priced mid-E30 level; around what a clean E30 325is would run you. Performance on the E30 might be better, but I think the E21 is a more classic design that remains one of the most approachable classic BMWs and good value for your money.

-Carter