Vehicle Description
When the time came for BMW to replace their heralded 2002 model,
they realized that they had some pretty big automotive shoes to
fill. After refining the design for a full three years before its
high profile unveiling in Munich Stadium, BMW launched the E21
series to an enthusiastic response, so much so that they saw fit to
make very few aesthetic modifications during its 9-year run. This
1983 BMW 320i is a rare gem - it represents the opportunity to own
a "last of its kind" car, as the E21 was discontinued after this
model year. Relatively lightly used, with just 110,000 miles logged
during its nearly 35 years in service, it also comes complete with
a full complement of maintenance records and its original bill of
sale.
BMWs have always been known for their refined looks, and this E21
is certainly no exception, but even with high expectations, it cuts
an impressive presence. The sapphire blue paint job retains an
impressive shine and the entire exterior has a definite freshness
to it, with clean and straight bumpers in both front and back and
clean trim throughout. The window glass remains very clear and the
rubber seals surrounding it retain a deep black hue, unfaded from
the elements. The black grille in front and prominent dual
headlights, very often areas where obvious aging is seen in BMWs,
look especially good, as well. BMW had already been using the
tagline "the ultimate driving machine" for about a decade when this
E21 rolled out and its relatively wide track and slightly inclined
stance underscore the notion that this is certainly a car built for
the motoring enthusiast.
Inside, you'll notice that the blue interior is in fine form. The
blue cloth bucket seats in front and the bench seat in back are
convincingly firm and show very little wear, and the door panels
show no obvious scuffs, retaining their uniform blue shade even
toward the top, where fading most often occurs. Even some 35 years
ago, BMW was being heralded for advances in the ergonomic design of
their cockpits and you can see evidence in this 320i. Unlike most
cars of its era, the controls above the center console are angled
toward the driver, a sort of acknowledgement that he or she who
occupies the driver's seat is in charge. Sitting above the
controls, the dash pad is also in fine shape, unwarped, unfaded and
bearing no splitting on its surface. Looking forward from the
driver's seat, you'll see that the gauges all stare back at you
from crystal clear lenses and the air conditioning cools the
occupants with convincing force. The sunroof is certainly a great
added feature and it opens and closes without incident, as do the
windows throughout.
Under the hood, with its signature raised center and instantly
recognizable propeller logo, sits a 1.8ltr 4 cylinder engine that's
running smoothly and quietly. It's no coincidence that you tend to
see more vintage BMWs on the road than many other brands, as they
tend toward impressive drivetrain longetivity. Equipped with a
5-speed manual overdrive transmission, this is a car that will
cruise effortlessly at 70mph, and with power brakes at all four
corners - discs in front - there's plenty of stopping power at your
disposal. This exceptionally well-preserved 320i sits on a set of
stock 13" rims, wrapped in Cooper Trendsetter radials.
Looking for a truly well-preserved and well-maintained example of
vintage German automotive engineering? You have to check out this
1983 BMW 320i E21. Call today!
