19 Jan 07
BMW's 3-Series was one of the first truly sporting small saloons, and defined the so-called 'compact executive' sector.
Launched in 1975 to replace the popular 02-series, this first-generation model became the best-selling BMW of all time and is now seen as a modern-day classic, with good examples fetching proper classic car prices.
Even lesser-powered E21s are sought-after as entry-level track day cars, thanks to their rear-wheel drive handling, smooth and progressive power delivery, light weight (1,010kg), excellent balance and accurate rack-and-pinion steering.
Rear-wheel drive novices beware, however: it can be all too easy to lose control of that rear end, especially in the wet. You may find out the true meaning of 'oversteer' the hard way.
The E21 was also fashionable for a time among the pimp-my-ride gang, so there are now a large number of very cheap examples around - for good reason. Buy the best, most original E21 you can afford.
Two-door saloons or rare aftermarket Bauer cabriolet conversions.
Six-cylinder 320/6 (122bhp, from 1977) and 323i (143bhp); the fuel-injected 318i (105bhp, from 1979) is the best of the four-cylinder models.
The early carburettor-fuelled 316, 318 and 320 are on the slow side compared to the fuel-injection models; they were upgraded in late-1979. The 316 (Sept 80-82) also needs expensive 98-octane Super Unleaded fuel.
All E21 3-Series need ignition adjustment to run happily on unleaded fuel and the use of a lead-replacement fuel additive is advised - check with the seller if they've done this. Look for signs of over-heating, head gasket failure and water/coolant loss. Avoid cars with ropey DIY modifications, though specific era-sympathetic upgrades from a respected garage can be desirable.
From next-to-nothing for a dodgy rust-bucket with short MOT and dubious road-worthiness to £2,500-plus for a very nice, original-condition 323i; rare convertibles are up to £4,000 - though rough ones are less than £1,000.
