Although it’s typically Alpina and Dinan that enthusiasts think of when it comes to high-level BMW modifiers, Hartge also offered plenty to consider. Today’s car is a Japanese-specific model called the H26SP, which was offered first in E30 and later E36 models. Like Alpina, they had special body kits, suspension, wheels, trim, and engine upgrades. Two things are interesting about today’s car – first, it’s a very early E36, and second, that it’s already in the US. Unfortunately things start to unwind a bit after that, as it’s been changed substantially from its original configuration. Still, this is a rare BMW, so let’s take a look:
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1991 Hartge H26SP on eBay
Year: 1991
Model: H26SP
VIN: WBACB41040FE50597
Engine: 2.5 liter inline-6
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Mileage: 126,629 km (78,700 mi
Location: Smyrna, Tennessee
Price: $22,750 Buy It Now
1991 BMW Hartge 26 SP
Stock #:
TJ3275
Exterior Color:
White
Interior Color:
Blue
Body Type:
Sedan
Transmission:
Automatic
Drivetrain:
RWD
Engine:
6 Cylinder
Mileage:
78,683
So the first thing you’ll notice is that Hartges don’t have unique VINs, unlike Alpina. This one also has a tremendous amount of non-original items on it; easy to spot are the steering wheel, stereo, and 18″ wheels – though the latter does at least appear to be newer Hartge items. The suspension is Weitec coilover, it has Brembo calipers, and several trim pieces are missing – including the neat front spoiler – and it’s got some aftermarket exhaust system. The car also oddly decodes as a Spanish-market version, though another 91 H26SP that sold last year also does. It does have several of the correct Hartge bits, though, so perhaps to the right person it’s a neat find worth correcting. Pricing? The dealer is asking almost $23,000, which still gets you a pretty nice E36 M3. The previous Hartge, which was nicer and more correct, sold for $10k less than that, which seems inline with an offbeat E36 automatic with some neat period stuff.
-Carter
