The US versions of both the E23 and E24 were stuck with the DOT-mandated bumpers that spoil their looks, in my opinion. A simple solution? For the E24 it is easy; the “88.5” refresh not only brought body-color bumper caps, changing the aesthetic and making it much more palatable, but you also got the punchier M34B35 to boot. The downside? Most are automatics. How about the E23? when in Euro guise, it’s a completely transformed car, suddenly tighter, leaner, and meaner. Again though, most were autos. Today two came up that fit the styling criteria, but both are manuals! And for good measure both are also wearing Alpina wheels. Sharp!
There aren’t a ton of photos to review on the E23, but it’s got some trick bits in addition to the big dollar wheels – the M5 front sport seats, a Nardi steering wheel, a BBS front spoiler, and (if you’re into that) a lot of sound equipment. It might not be for everyone but looks like an affordable way to get into a fun classic BMW that will stand apart from the crowd. It appears that if you are clever and lucky, you could grab this one for the opening $15k bid.
The E24 is a lot more stock, and I think the Alpina wheels are replicas. Like the E23, it’s got some other period-style mods like a MOMO steering wheel, some Recaros (it appears), and a Bav Auto front strut brace stand out, but it’s also got H&R springs.
Like the E23, there’s a lot to like and the car looks great. This seller is also looking for a lot more at $37k. While that’s not unheard of for an 88.5, it is pretty unusual for one to go that high. Maybe for just the right person, though, this one is the car they’ve been looking for.
-Carter