1982 BMW 320 (E21)

ENGINE 1991cc/6-cyl/OHC POWER 122bhp@5800rpm TORQUE 118ft lb@4000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 113mph 0-60MPH 14sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 18-22mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, three-speed automatic MoT 12 months on sale ODOMETER 30,381 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

Right from the first turn of the ignition, it’s clear that this BMW has been maintained in rude health. The 1991cc engine delivers a satisfying exhaust note and willing performance, there is no play in the steering and the brakes bring the car to a clean halt. Changes from the automatic gearbox are smooth and pick-up is sporting. There are no adverse noises over rough ground – the suspension absorbing hard cornering with ease – and there’s very little body roll.

BODYWORK CHECK

The striking metallic Polaris Silver finish looks brand new, with only minor niggles evident upon close scrutiny – two insignificant paint chips halfway up the driver’s door, and minor cracks within the indicator covers and nearside brake light. However, these are insignificant considering the rust-free body. The sills and underside are solid, with no trace of corrosion. The windscreen and window glass are flawless and the exterior trim is complete and in excellent condition. A gleaming exhaust and thick tyre tread all round finish off a 320 that’s ready to drive away; in fact, it’s in much the same condition as when it left the factory.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The cabin is pretty much pristine throughout. There’s no fading to the black vinyl wraparound dashboard, with no signs of lifting, splitting or cracking. All dials read accurately from behind an undamaged binnacle. The blue cloth door cards are slightly faded around the arm rests, but they’re unmarked and show no signs of water damage. The seats remain supportive and the upholstery shows little sign of use. Smart blue-rimmed floormats have kept the light grey carpets looking like new throughout, and the headlining is similarly immaculate. The radio is period-correct, but non-original. The boot appears to have seen little use over the years and contains an as-new spare wheel beneath dark grey carpet.

UNDER THE BONNET

Lifting the trademark fronthinged bonnet reveals a tidy engine bay and a recently serviced engine. All fluid levels are at the maximum mark, but the lead trunking running to the fuse box has cracked with age and would benefit from replacement. Further wear and tear can be seen on the steering fluid reservoir and mild fraying to the sound insulation, but overall the mechanicals look strong and respectable. There are receipts documenting several new parts, including wiring to the hazard lights within the last two years. The car comes with a fullystamped service book, the owner’s handbook and period advertising material.

THE CCW VIEW

The first-generation BMW 3 Series is renowned for its combination of elegant styling and excellent performance, and it’s a lot rarer than the later E30. Years of dutiful care by previous owners, apparent originality and a particularly low mileage reading – which is commensurate with its MoT history – mean that this one’s asking price looks fair. Try finding another example in as good a condition as this one.

EXTERIOR Superb body and paint Complete trim INTERIOR Immaculate carpets and headlining MECHANICALS Good handling Low mileage