BMW E21

[G-P]

I am soon going to be selling my little MX5 as I need a more practical fun weekend car. I have always been a big fan of BMW's old and new and fancy getting a E21 323i. Can anyone give me any advice or guidance on buying/owning one?

Many thanks,

[Travis Mcgee]

I would have thought rust was your biggest problem. So i would definitely be careful on that score. I think some parts from the 2002 carried over to the E21, so parts might not be too much of an issue. Jaymic in Norfolk may be able to help you with parts. These cars arn't as popular as the 2002, so prices should be quite good. Look out for the rare Baur convertible.That would be a good one to have in place of the MX5. Good Luck

[belleair302]

Give Gary at Autobahn Services in Rickmansworth. He is probably the best source of 1970's / 80's BMW knowledge and what to look for. He also drives an E21 when not enjoying a vast array of Alpina's.

[phone]

http://www.autobahnservices.co.uk/

[G-P]

Thanks for your help, I will try them.

[belleair302]

Gary is an interesting fellow. I was in his E21 two weeks ago and rust is your biggest concern. Bottom of doors, front scuttle under the windsceen, around the windows, wheel arches and floor pan. Electricals are simple, the interior is wondwerful but be careful when choosing gearboxes. Uncommon sights these rs today but they are fun to drive so long as you remember their age and drum brakes.....

[e21BMW]

Did you have any luck finding an E21?

[urquattro]

Are the 323i Bauer convertibles rising in appeal now, it seems to me quite a nice practical summer four seater with a sound small 6 cylinder engine.
Would appreciate advice as am thinking of getting one for global warming season.!

[e21BMW]

There are a few Baur 323's out there and they're a bit of a bargain. I know the styling isn't everyone's cup of tea but I always found mine to be a joy to own and drive. It didn't flex like the later E30 cab either. Just make sure the hood is in good order though as a replacement isn't cheap. Apart from that, they are cheap to buy and maintain. As with any old car though, avoid rust!

[vpr]

I'm really wanting an E21 323 right now. Just started looking. Not many out there

[e21BMW]

Prices are on the up too! If I were you I'd buy a 320 and drop a 2.5 in from an e30. There are more 320's and they're a bit cheaper.

[vpr]

e21BMW said:

Prices are on the up too! If I were you I'd buy a 320 and drop a 2.5 in from an e30. There are more 320's and they're a bit cheaper.

Were the 320's six cylinder?

If you come across a 323 let me know. Not the black one on ebay as it sounds peculiar in circumstances

[e21BMW]

Yes, 320's in Europe are 6 cylinder and you can easily fit rear discs from a 323. Check Gumtree too.

I may have an auto 323 for sale soon with Recaro interior and Alpina replica 15'' alloys at £3000.

[vpr]

e21BMW said:

Yes, 320's in Europe are 6 cylinder and you can easily fit rear discs from a 323. Check Gumtree too.

I may have an auto 323 for sale soon with Recaro interior and Alpina replica 15'' alloys at £3000.

Could be of interest.....Hope you're not the other end of the country ;-)

[e21BMW]

Kingston.

Take a look here too www.bmwe21.net/forum