With the factory code E21, the first BMW 3 Series came onto the market in 1975 as the successor to the 02 models. The new car was only available ex works as a two-door sedan and was more mature and much more comfortable than the previous 02 models. At the start were 316 and 318 with round single headlights and 320 and 320i with double headlights. The latter was followed in 1977 by the 320 with a new six-cylinder engine and 122 hp. was the 323i presented in 1978 with 143 hp – it redefined the BMW interpretation of the sporty compact saloon with its balanced qualities. The E21 was a complete success for BMW: around 1.36 million first-generation "threesomes" were sold.

In this auction, a BMW of the first "three-seater" generation from the year of construction 1982 can be purchased: This E21 is the top engine with six-cylinder – the 323i. Originally, this two-door sedan was imported with the FIN WBAAH4104C7264978 from Switzerland to Germany, according to the seller, the car has a total of only 2 owners. For the traceability of the history, among other things, the service book and various documents for the car are available. This BMW has been shut down since February 1994. The 323i already has an H-approval, the TÜV is done by the current owner before the handover to the future owner, according to the seller. In addition to 3 vehicle keys, the so-called matching numbers should also be mentioned.

Except for repainting in the area of the roof lining and the repainting of the rear plate, this 323i in the paint color called "chestnut red metallic" impresses with its first paint. Due to the largely first paint dress of this E21, of course, minor traces of use as well as traces of time on the body have not simply passed – but it should be mentioned that the exterior of the BMW is in an extremely good state of preservation without rust damage in view of this. The chrome also shines as it should and all plastic elements on the vehicle are preserved in undamaged condition. In addition, no modifications to the exterior can be found deviating from the original condition. An accident can be ruled out by the seller in the current possession.

Tyres from the production year 2021 in the dimension 185/70 – with according to the seller's information still about 8mm tyre tread – are mounted on 13-inch BMW multi-spoke light-alloy wheels. No curb scratches can be removed from the rims. In the area of the brake system, steel flex brake lines were used, the brakes themselves can be said to be in good shape by the current owner. In terms of chassis technology, there are apparently no deficits to be enumerated.

The interior of the E21 is straightforward and clearly structured: the centre console inclined towards the driver is characteristic. Seats and door panels are made of velour fabric in the colour anthracite: damage in these areas is not noticeable, just like in the rest of the interior of the 323i. The entire interior is flawless and corresponds to the low mileage of the BMW. In addition to the manual sunroof, the equipment also includes power steering, color glazing and a Blaupunkt Heidelberg cassette radio with CD changer.

4 round instruments adorn the cockpit and are exactly in the driver's field of vision: the speedometer shows a mileage of 41,340 kilometres. These kilometers can be traced on the one hand via a complete checkbook, on the other hand via various available documents. All instruments in the interior have a perfect function.

In the engine compartment works an in-line six-cylinder, which has a displacement of 2.3 liters and delivers 143 hp to the rear wheels. Power transmission is provided by a 3-speed automatic transmission. According to the sellers, defects in the technology are not present, a last service took place in August 2021 – in the course of this maintenance work, the timing belt was also renewed.

In line with the low overall mileage of the BMW, the condition of the underbody of this E21 can also be found: it presents itself in very good condition without any apparent deficits. An E21 is the forefather of all BMW 3 Series, a 323i has the top engine of the series and impresses with its powerful in-line six-cylinder engine. The 323i offered here is particularly interesting for collectors due to its low mileage and the perfectly preserved overall condition. Its timeless design, the largely solid technology and the high suitability for everyday use also ensure that nothing stands in the way of the next exit.