BMW E21 3 Series winter storage parking spot, sales and performance
BMW E21 3 Series

3 Series Winter Storage Parking Spot

Love your BMW 3 Series, wondering where its parking spot is for winter storage?  Take care of this beauty.

BMW E21 3 Series

The BMW E21, introduced in 1975, was the first generation of BMW’s iconic 3 Series. As the successor to the iconic BMW 2002, the E21 aimed to continue the legacy of driving pleasure and engineering excellence. In this article, we delve into the best features, performance, and known sales of every BMW E21 produced, including information about horsepower, torque, 0-60 mph acceleration, and engine size.

BMW 316 (1975-1980)

The entry-level BMW 316, powered by a 1.6-liter M10 inline-4 engine, debuted in 1975. This compact executive 3 series car boasted 90 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and four-speed manual transmission delivered a smooth and engaging driving experience. The 316 reached 0-60 mph in 12.6 seconds, demonstrating adequate performance for its time. During its five-year production run, BMW sold 178,063 units of the 316, making it the second-best-selling E21 model.

BMW 318 (1975-1980)

The BMW 318, launched alongside the 316, offered a more powerful alternative with a 1.8-liter M10 inline-4 engine. Producing 98 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque, the 318 had a slightly better 0-60 mph time of 12.0 seconds. This model came with a standard four-speed manual transmission, with an optional three-speed automatic also available. The 318 was a popular choice for buyers, with a total of 135,265 units sold between 1975 and 1980.

BMW 320/4 (1975-1977)

The BMW 320/4, initially launched in 1975, featured a 2.0-liter M10 inline-4 engine, delivering 109 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque. The 320/4’s performance was a noticeable improvement, boasting a 0-60 mph time of 10.5 seconds. Despite being available for only two years, the 320/4 enjoyed strong sales, with a total of 54,905 units sold. This model had the same transmission options as the 318.

BMW 320i (1975-1979)

The BMW 320i, introduced in 1975 for the North American market, was the first E21 model to feature fuel injection. Equipped with a 2.0-liter M10 inline-4 engine, it produced 110 horsepower and 122 lb-ft of torque. The 320i’s improved performance resulted in a 0-60 mph time of 10.0 seconds. This model was available with either a four-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic. In its four-year production run, BMW sold 86,629 units of the 320i.

BMW 320/6 (1977-1982)

Replacing the 320/4 in 1977, the BMW 320/6 featured a new 2.0-liter M20 inline-6 engine, which provided 122 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque. This model offered a 0-60 mph time of 9.9 seconds and came with the same transmission options as the previous models. The 320/6 had a production run of five years, with 69,013 units sold.

BMW 323i (1977-1982)

The top-of-the-line BMW E21 3 series, launched in 1977, was powered by a 2.3-liter M20 inline-6 engine. This performance-oriented model boasted 143 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque, providing a spirited driving experience. The 323i accelerated from 0-60 mph in just 8.0 seconds, making it the fastest E21 model. Transmission options included a five-speed manual, four-speed manual, or three-speed automatic. As the flagship E21, the 323i enjoyed significant success, with 62,378 units sold during its production run.

The BMW E21 series marked the beginning of a long and successful journey for the 3 Series, which continues to be a benchmark in the compact executive car segment. With varying engine sizes and performance capabilities, the E21 catered to a broad range of customers. The innovative designs, engaging driving dynamics, and timeless appeal of the E21 models have cemented their place in BMW’s history.

Throughout its production run, the BMW E21 consistently delivered performance, innovation, and driving pleasure. Today, these models remain sought-after classics by enthusiasts and collectors alike. The E21 laid the groundwork for the success and evolution of the BMW 3 Series, which continues to uphold its reputation for engineering excellence and driving dynamics.

Winter Storage

If you live in an area with harsh winter conditions, it’s a smart move to consider parking your car in winter storage. Not only does it protect your vehicle from potential damage caused by snow, ice, and salt, but it also gives you peace of mind knowing that your car is safe and secure. Storing your car properly during the winter months helps avoid rust, dust, rodents, and anything else.  Consider an indoor or outdoor unit from us.