BMW 320

ENGINE 1990cc/6-cyl/OHC POWER 122bhp@6000rpm TORQUE 118lb ft@4000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 113mph 0-60MPH 10.5sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 18-22mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, three-speed automatic MoT Due ODOMETER 77,105 miles The 3 Series was always intended to compromise between a sporting and luxurious ride, and that’s true of this example. There are no untoward noises from the suspension and the powerassisted steering has a good weight and is quiet on full lock. The three-speed automatic gearbox is in fine fettle, changing gear smoothly and kicking-down on command. BODYWORK CHECK This E21 has a dealer-warranted 77,000 miles on the clock, but it doesn’t look like it has covered anything like that, judging by its bodywork. The bumpers are spotless and there isn’t a blemish to be found anywhere in the bodywork. There are two tiny marks on both door protector rubber inserts, but this is truly nit-picking, and only visible under close inspection. The immaculate steel wheels are shod with Runway Enduro tyres, all of which have plenty of tread. HOW’S THE INTERIOR? It’s hard to ignore the ripped driver’s seat base, which is a shame as the other seats are in very good condition. BMWs of this era are prone to this sort of wear, so it’s not unusual, but finding a replacement would be near impossible – it will have to be repaired. Otherwise, the only discernible blemishes are some hairline cracks on the edge of the instrument binnacle’s perspex cover, though they don’t obscure any of the dials. Otherwise, the dashboard is in very good condition, complete with its original radio and the headlining is taut and clean. The carpet could use a clean in places, but looks like it would come back to near-new condition. UNDER THE BONNET Rather like this car’s bodywork, the engine bay looks like it has covered fewer miles than its odometer suggests. Clamps, clips and pipes all look fresh out of the box and there is very little corrosion to any of the visible parts. There are no signs of any obvious leaks, and the engine bay itself is in good condition, with no rust or evidence of accident repairs. The six-cylinder engine starts straight on the button and pulls fantastically well. There’s no hiccupping anywhere in the rev range – it’s as smooth as a twolitre ‘six’ should be. THE CCW VIEW If there’s a downside to this car, it’s that it comes with very little history – only its mileage is really known. While 77,000 miles isn’t much for a 35-yearold car, this looks more like a car that has covered 15,000, suggesting that it’s either been restored or simply maintained by an incredibly fastidious and caring owner. Regardless, it’s a fantastic condition car that is now very rare – you certainly wouldn’t get an E30 in this sort of condition for the same sort of money. Charlie Calderwood

EXTERIOR Exceptional body, paint and chrome INTERIOR Ripped driver’s seat Cracks in binnacle cover MECHANICALS Smooth engine, gearbox and ride