This 46-Year-Old BMW Appears Like It's Fresh Off the Assembly Line and Is Priced Accordingly | Carscoops

      The desirable classic remained untouched for almost thirty years, which accounts for its excellent condition.

      This 1979 BMW 323i coupe has only 22,000 miles and its original paint is in immaculate shape. Hidden away for 26 years, the sedan is anticipated to sell for close to $60,000. It was only driven in the summer months and was stored without use from 1984 to 2010.

      Before the M badge became synonymous with BMW's high-performance models, there were simpler vehicles that quietly excelled in the same formula. Long before the E30 M3 gained fame in 1985, the E21 323i had already shown that a well-balanced, rear-wheel-drive sports sedan could be remarkable without needing exaggeration. Now, a beautifully preserved 1979 model is available for auction in Sweden, serving as a reminder that cool doesn’t have to be loud.

      This specific 323i, presented in a vibrant Reseda Green metallic, was delivered to its first owner in the coastal town of Trelleborg in July 1979. Under the hood, it features a 2.3-liter straight-six engine, the most powerful choice in the E21 series, generating 141 hp (105 kW / 143 PS). A five-speed manual transmission directs power to the rear wheels, which is the only true setup for a car of this nature.

      The power output of this two-door sedan may seem modest compared to the 543 hp (405 kW / 551 PS) of the contemporary G80 M3 CS, but it's essential to remember this was the late 1970s. Additionally, the E21 weighed around 1,180 kg (2,600 lbs), eliminating the need for excessive horsepower to perform well. It could still accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 8.7 seconds and achieve a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph), which was impressive for that era.

      What truly distinguishes this car is not its specifications, but its condition. According to the Bilweb Auctions listing, the original owner and his wife drove it only during the summer months from 1979 to 1984. With other vehicles in the garage, this one was carefully stored indoors and left untouched for 26 years.

      Fast forward to 2010, when the owner chose to bring it back to life, providing it with a full service in his own workshop. Today, the odometer reads 35,916 km (22,317 miles), and the car remains in its original state, save for a new stainless steel exhaust. Despite being 46 years old, the original paint shows no signs of wear, and the chrome gleams as if it were still 1979.

      The iconic shark-nose front end features dual headlights with wipers, while the rear showcases twin tailpipes. Seat covers added by the dealership have preserved the original upholstery beneath, and the interior includes vintage elements like a Clarion cassette player with a separate equalizer, an analog clock, a sunroof, and a robust three-spoke steering wheel.

      This untouched E21 is currently located in Malmö and is set to go up for auction today. Due to its remarkable condition and rarity, it is expected to fetch between 480,000 and 550,000 SEK (approximately $49,800 to $57,000). For context, a new 320i xDrive sedan in Sweden starts at 510,000 SEK ($52,900), but finding one with as much character – or as little touchscreen technology – is unlikely.