BMW 320 | 1978

BMW 320 (E21) | 1978

Highlights:

– 2.0-litre M20 straight-six engine, petrol, manual transmission

– Finished in Iberian Red with a beige interior

– Rare instrument dashpod with additional gauges

– Extensive recent mechanical recommissioning after long-term storage

– 172,000 km

The seller offers for sale this 1978 BMW 320/6 E21, powered by a 2.0-litre M20 straight-six engine, paired with a manual transmission. This example is finished in Iberian Red with a beige interior and is presented as a genuine, largely original E21 with a documented history. The car is fitted with a sought-after dashpod housing additional instrumentation, a period feature that adds to the appeal of this particular example, while the interior has been nicely preserved for its age. The mileage stands at 172,000 km.

The seller acquired the car in Germany from its second owner, where it had been laid up for roughly 35 years, giving it an honest and solid original basis. Following the long period of storage, a considerable amount of mechanical work has been carried out to return the car to reliable, roadworthy order. The previous owner had already fitted new valve seals, a head gasket and a timing belt, and cleaned the carburettor. More recently the differential and propshaft have been rebuilt or renewed, the thermostat and water pump replaced, all rubber hoses renewed, a new exhaust fitted, and the fuel pump and tank sender replaced. The braking system has been comprehensively renewed, including calipers, pistons and the rear brake line, the clutch master and slave cylinders have been rebuilt, the valves have been adjusted with a new rocker cover gasket, and the underside has been treated again with protective coating. The seller notes the carburettor could still benefit from fine tuning, as the engine is not yet completely settled at idle, while it pulls well under load. Known points to note include a crack in the windscreen outside the field of vision, a heater fan switch that needs attention, and a missing antenna, all documented in good condition terms for a car of this age.

The paintwork is now 48 years old, with the exception of the bonnet, and shows age-related marks and small blemishes consistent with its years, as visible in the photographs. This is not an over-restored show car but an honest, original and mechanically refreshed enthusiast’s E21 with genuine character. The original steering wheel accompanies the car alongside the currently fitted smaller sports wheel, and a range of spare parts is available by arrangement.

The BMW E21 was introduced in 1975 as the first generation of the 3 Series, replacing the celebrated 02 series and establishing a template that BMW would follow for decades. The six-cylinder 320/6 sat at the top of the early E21 range, bringing the smoothness and character of BMW’s M20 engine to a compact, driver-focused sports saloon. With its distinctive shark-nose front, driver-oriented cockpit and rear-wheel-drive balance, the E21 laid the foundations for the 3 Series legend and is increasingly appreciated by collectors as an accessible and characterful classic BMW.

This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.

Condition of the bodywork & paint

2 — Fair. Noticeable wear and aging; drives but has issues.

Condition of the interior

4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.

Technical condition

4 — Very Good. Mechanically solid, with potential for minor servicing.

Overall condition

3 — Good. Bodywork or mechanical repairs needed; drives.

We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.

All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.

Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.

This car is currently located in: Overijssel province, the Netherlands.

This car drives, brakes and shifts.

The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.

The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.

Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.

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