The BMW E21 is the first generation of the BMW 3 Series compact executive cars, which were produced from June 1975 to 1983 and replaced the BMW 02 Series.
Initial models were produced in a two-door sedan body style with four-cylinder petrol engines. Fuel-injected engines were introduced in late 1975 and 6-cylinder engines were added in 1977.
In 1977, the 320 model switched from the BMW M10 four-cylinder engine to the BMW M20 straight-six petrol engine. Although they remained badged as "320", the six-cylinder model is often referred to as "320/6". The engine uses a Solex 4-barrel downdraft carburetor. The 320/6 accelerates to 100 km/h in 10.0 seconds and has a top speed of 181 km/h.
The “perfectly engineered” performance described by Car & Driver became a hallmark of every 3 Series to follow. The E21 was the first BMWs to have the class and prestige to fit in at the corporate parking lot, yet offer the performance to please the company’s loyal enthusiast buyers. The E21 also introduced “yuppies” to the brand, and helped build BMW into the brand that it is today.
Today the car’s age allows carbureted European models to be legally imported into USA, which opens the choice up to six-cylinder models, the most desirable Euro cars, that are now very much sought after in the US market.
The 1975 to 1983 BMW E21 3 Series is an affordable project car, largely so because of its placement in BMW history. The E21 is bookended by the much-loved 2002 and the popular E30, which takes the spotlight off of the original 3 Series. Subsequently, cars are more affordable and rare parts are in low demand. BMW also supports the E21 though BMW Mobile Tradition, meaning that any part you need can be sourced from the dealer. With proper care and maintenance, the E21 will continue to offer the classic BMW driving feel and classic lines well into the future.
This example is the carburetor 6-cylinder 2-litre version (320/6). It comes in an original condition, absolutely free of corrosion. It is an import from Italy. Really good condition. Driver's seat needs a new upholstery.
New pins and exhaust. Fully functional and above all undemanding youngtimer. Registration documents included.
Production date | 1978 |
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Body Type | Sedan |
Engine | 1.990 ccm, 122 PS, I6 |
transmission | Manual |
Steering | Left Hand Drive |
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Layout | Rear Wheel Drive |
Color - exterior | Chamonix (Cream White) |
Color - interior | Black |
Miles/Kilometers shown | 150.116 kms |
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Chassis / VIN | 6617235 |
Location - Country | Czech Rep. |
Location - City | Pisek |
2-door sedan body type; RWD (rear-wheel drive); manual gearbox; gasoline (petrol) engine with displacement: 1990 cm3, advertised power: 90 kW / 121 hp / 122 PS (DIN), torque: 160 Nm; characteristic dimensions: outside length: 4355 mm, width: 1610 mm, wheelbase: 2563 mm; reference weights: base curb weight: 1115 kg; top speed: 181 km/h (112 mph) (declared by factory); accelerations: 0-60 mph 10.1 s, 0-100 km/h 10.7 s (declared by factory)