1981 BMW 320i

Description

This is one of the defining vehicles that made us all fall in love with German cars. In fact, this 1981 BMW 320i continues to be a terrific all-around driver's car with features like sleek paint, cold-blowing A/C, a five-speed stick, and a peppy fuel-injected powerhouse. So check out all the details of the kind of fun European classic that wants you to hit the road.

This was the first-generation 3-Series. It's more luxurious than its 2002-model predecessor, but it's not an overstuffed land yacht cruiser. It struck a chord with those of us who wanted something premium, distinctive, and fun. That set the tone for German cars for decades to come. But you don't just want this for its history. You're attracted to the clean but conservative design that has the kind of well-creased sheet metal that comes from German build quality and decades of the right care. The color is called Hennarot, and it's a shade of red with a brightness that makes this almost look orange in some lights - especially with the vibrant gloss of the later respray. Clean glass, good bumpers, and classic turbine-style wheels are all part of a stock look that turns back the clock 40+ years.

The tan interior has a clean and complete look that makes a nice driver-level car. You'll even appreciate classic details everywhere from the pleats in the rear sets to the working dome light. But here are also the right upgrades. The radio is an AM/FM/CD stereo with a USB input for your iPod, and the air conditioning is blowing cold with modern R134 refrigerant. Because this is a true BMW, the interior focuses all the important pieces around you. So you have exceptionally comfortable bucket seats, and the factory wheel is engineered to give you a clear view of the full gauge package. Plus, the gear stick is exactly where you always want to rest your right hand.

Part of the reason BMW got the chemistry so right with the first 3-Series is because of what's under the hood. The 1.8-liter four-cylinder is the same M10 family as cars like the 2002. This was part of the final evolution that includes electronic fuel injection. It's a well-maintained package that fires up with the kind of eagerness that lets you know it wants to hit the road. BMW's engineers made sure that the five-speed manual transmission, direct steering, and fully independent worked in harmony to give you a sports car kind of feel. And power brakes, front discs, and modern Kumho tires are part of a package that makes this practical choice, too.

Complete with owner's manual, we all know the first-gen 3-Series is a true classic, but this level of affordable price also lets you know that the market has not yet fully appreciated it...yet. So get your hands on this 320i while it's still affordable. Call today!!!