bmwe21.net forums

Hey guys,

Stumbled across an E21 that's been in a storage unit since 1997. It's a 1980, one owner Cali car with 88k miles. Has the sport package. Looks to be in pretty good shape (clear coat is still shinny), other than a few rust spots under the drains by the back windows. Interior has your typical dash crack and the seats could use a reupholster.

So 2 questions for the E21 gurus:

1. Based on the info above, what's a "good deal" on this car?
2. If I do buy it, do I leave "as is" or spend the money fixing up the minor issues? I plan on reselling it to someone who loves this body style (I'm more of an E30 and E36 guy).

Thanks!

Sam

Hi Sam, we do have a buyersguide, I recommend using that. Wether to buy it or not depends on the engine. A 316 is not half as desirable as a 323i. Look under the rear seat, if there's rust, do the same at the jackpoints in front.

A Car that had been tucked away vfor nearly two decades has to have some big maintenance before it is roadworthy, so count that in.

Hello Sam,

Mainly agree with uvwbuurman. I'd say it would be worth spending on a 316 as most of them tend to be in better shape than 323i's which have tended to lead a harder life. However, if it's going to be a fixer upper, you could spend a pretty penny getting it sorted and even then it won't be perfect - so important to start with a good base car irrespective of the spec. Plus things like new dashboards are hard to come by secondhand.

Good luck anyway