1982 BMW 323i

Location: Santa Barbara, California

Why It's Curated: This 1982 BMW 323i is for sale in Santa Barbara, Ca. This exceptionally original E21 323i represents the purest expression of BMW's first-generation 3 Series, designed by legendary stylist Paul Bracq. With just 54,500 actual miles—averaging only 1,300 miles per year—this example showcases the coveted M20B23 2.3-liter inline-six that made the 323i the performance flagship of the E21 lineup. The striking Sapphire Blue Metallic exterior paired with matching blue cloth interior creates the quintessential early-80s BMW aesthetic. What makes this particularly special is its completely unmodified state, retaining every factory component from drivetrain to trim details. Recent European service including timing belt, water pump, and ongoing maintenance by Santa Barbara's respected Schneider Autohaus ensures mechanical integrity. As the final evolution of BMW's original 3 Series before the revolutionary E30 arrived, this 323i captures a pivotal moment in BMW's transformation into the ultimate driving machine.

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Model History: The 1982 BMW 323i represents the pinnacle of the E21 generation, BMW's inaugural 3 Series that established the template for the modern sports sedan. Introduced in 1975 as BMW's answer to the Mercedes-Benz 190, the E21 was designed under Paul Bracq's direction to create a smaller, more affordable alternative to the larger 5 Series while maintaining BMW's driving dynamics. The 323i, launched in 1977, crowned the lineup with its sophisticated M20B23 2.3-liter inline-six producing 143 horsepower—a significant leap over the four-cylinder variants. This engine featured Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection and represented BMW's commitment to combining performance with efficiency during the post-oil crisis era. By 1982, the E21 had reached full maturity, incorporating years of refinement in suspension tuning, build quality, and interior appointments that would define BMW's character for decades. Against contemporaries like the Audi 80 and Mercedes 190E (which wouldn't arrive until 1983), the 323i offered a unique blend of sporting character and daily usability that established BMW's "Ultimate Driving Machine" reputation. The E21's rear-wheel-drive layout, near-perfect weight distribution, and precise steering became the benchmark for compact executive cars. As the final year before the revolutionary E30's 1983 debut, the 1982 323i represents both the culmination of BMW's first 3 Series experiment and the foundation upon which the brand's modern identity was built.

Vehicle Details:
Year: 1982
Make: BME
Model: 323i
Drive: Rear Wheel Drive
Miles: 54,500
Mileage Verification: Actual Miles
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Transmission: Manual (3 pedals)
Number of Forward Gears: 4
Engine: The E21 is the first generation of BMW’s 3 Series (produced 1975-1983). The 323i was one of the more performance-oriented trims in that series. Engine code: M20B23 — a 6-cylinder inline engine. 2.3 Ltr.
Exterior Color: Sapphire Blue Metallic
Interior Color: The 1982 BMW E21 323i often features a distinctive blue interior with cloth upholstery and blue leatherette accents on the bolsters and door panels. Frequently paired with Sapphire Blue Metallic exteriors, this classic color combination creates a cohesive look and captures the sporty yet refined style of early ’80s BMW design.
State of Registration: VA
Vehicle Location: Santa Barbara
VIN: Available Upon Request
Title: Clean

Details:

Drivetrain, Suspension, Tires & Brakes: 

Wheel Size and Offset: The car rides on 14” Alpina-style wheels dressed in Toyo Proxes T1R tires.
Tire Brand, Model, and Size: 14" Toyo Proxes T1R tires.

Exterior & Interior:  

Cloth interior
Working Heat: Yes
Working Air Conditioning: Yes

Other Notable Features or Functions:
Designed under the direction of Paul Bracq, BMW’s chief designer in the early 1970s. Bracq, a celebrated French automotive designer known for his work at Mercedes-Benz and Peugeot, shaped the E21’s clean, driver-focused look.
The car is original, retaining its factory-spec components and finishes as delivered from BMW. From the drivetrain and interior materials to the paint and trim details, it remains largely unmodified, showcasing the authentic character and craftsmanship of the 1982 E21 323i as it left the factory. MOMO wheel is installed and comes with original wheel.

Recent Maintenance:
Equipped with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, the 2.3-liter M20B23 inline-fisx engine was factory-rated at 143 HP and 140 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 4-speed manual transmission, and braking is derived from power-assisted discs at each corner. A service completed in Europe before the seller’s purchase included a new timing belt, tensioner, water pump, and thermostat. The seller notes that all maintenance has been performed exclusively by the specialists at Schneider Autohaus of Santa Barbara during their ownership, including a new radiator, spark plugs, and an oil change in 2024.

Mechanical, Rust, Cosmetic Known Flaws:
None. Car is original