Just a quick note as we enter the final stretch of the auction. Thank you to everyone who has followed, commented, and bid. I truly appreciate the enthusiasm and support.
I've been committed to being as transparent as possible by providing detailed photos, documentation, and prompt responses throughout the auction.
If you've been watching and waiting, now's your chance. Best of luck to all the bidders, and I hope this special Euro-spec BMW finds a great new home.
@sjrasco I have some good news. I spoke with the BMW dealership today and confirmed that the engine was not simply rebuilt. Instead, the previous owner had BMW install a genuine factory replacement engine built to the original factory specifications, using original BMW components, including several Euro-spec parts.
Per your request, I've uploaded all of the detailed BMW dealership receipts and invoices in the documents section for your review. They provide a complete record of the work performed and help document the exceptional care this car has received over the years.
As we approach the end of the auction, I'd like to share an important update regarding the mechanical history of this vehicle.
I spoke directly today with Shelton Sanders, the longtime Service Manager at BMW of Loveland, Colorado, who is still with the dealership after more than two decades. Remarkably, he immediately remembered this car and confirmed that he personally oversaw its maintenance for the previous owner.
According to Shelton, the engine work was not a conventional rebuild. Instead, the previous owner chose to have BMW install a genuine BMW factory replacement engine, along with the necessary supporting engine components. This was done proactively, with no expense spared, to ensure long-term reliability while genuine BMW parts were still readily available.
To support this history, every page of the original BMW dealership invoices has been uploaded individually in the documents section for bidders to review.
At the same time, the front suspension was comprehensively refreshed with new control arms and additional suspension components, further demonstrating the previous owner's commitment to proper maintenance.
This level of care and investment is exceptionally rare and speaks volumes about how this car has been looked after throughout its life.
Key Takeaways for Bidders
Factory BMW Replacement Engine: Genuine BMW replacement engine installed by BMW of Loveland.
Fully Documented: Complete BMW dealership invoices are available in the documents section.
BMW Dealer Maintained: The work was performed by experienced BMW technicians familiar with these cars.
Major Preventative Investment: Engine replacement and front suspension refresh were completed to preserve the car's reliability and driving experience.
Additionally, over the weekend the car received a fresh oil and filter service, a new oil pressure sensor, and a new exhaust hanger. The corresponding invoices have also been uploaded for your review.
Finding a Euro-spec E21 323i is uncommon. Finding one with documented BMW dealership history, a genuine BMW replacement engine with less than 8,000 miles, extensive supporting records, and this level of preventative maintenance is even rarer.
Thank you to everyone who has followed the auction, asked thoughtful questions, and placed bids. Best of luck in these final moments!
@PaulEJLin To the best of my knowledge, the car has had an older repaint. The 2019 professional appraisal also noted that it has an "older paint job" that presents very well. I am not able to accurately estimate a percentage of original paint, but the only known repair is a small repaint to the right rear area from a minor incident. Overall, the paint presents beautifully and remains in excellent condition.
@sjrasco You're welcome. I recently replaced the valve gaskets and replaced all new spark plugs. I am out of town till Monday and will try to get more info.
@sjrasco, yes, it really is a fantastic color and a difficult one to find. I've attached a few photos of the headliner—it has no sagging or tears, as you can see.
As for the engine, it is the original factory-spec engine. I purchased the car from the original owner, who had the engine completely rebuilt by a BMW dealership at approximately 166,000 miles. The rebuild retained the original factory specifications, and the car has been well cared for throughout its life.
Also please make a note that I performed a compression test, and all cylinders measured approximately 150 psi, with consistent readings across the engine. This indicates the engine is in good mechanical health and is consistent with the BMW dealer rebuild performed by the original owner.
Welcome to my listing of this beautiful and well-preserved classic. This car has been carefully maintained and remains in excellent condition, ready to be enjoyed by its next enthusiast owner.
I invite you to review the photos, ask any questions, and please feel free to reach out through the “Message Seller” button. I will be happy to provide any additional details or information to help with your evaluation.
Thank you for your interest, and best of luck to all bidders!