BMW 323i value development as a classic car: price doubled for the first 3 Series with double tailpipe

In 1975, BMW introduced the first 3 Series as the successor to the best-selling 02 series. Initially, there were only four-cylinder versions: the 316, 318, 320, and 320i, with chain-driven overhead camshafts, produced between 90 and 125 hp. In 1980, BMW followed with two more four-cylinder engines: the 316 (contrary to the model designation, 1.8 liters, 90 hp) and the 318i (105 hp). In 1981, the budget-friendly 315 with 75 hp appeared. All four-cylinder models were based on the same engine, the M10, which was already familiar from the 1602 to 2002 models.

In September 1977 and February 1978, two brand-new six-cylinder versions with timing belt-driven camshafts replaced the four-cylinder 320 and 320i. In the 320/6 with 122 hp, a Solex twin carburetor handles the mixture preparation, while in the 323i, it's a Bosch K-Jetronic; thus, the larger six-cylinder produced 143 hp. Confusingly, the inline six was initially called the M60, then the M20. Later, BMW also internally called the four-valve V8s, sold since 1992, the M60.

Drivers usually report that the 320/6, despite its 21 hp loss, responds a bit better to the accelerator and seems smoother, even though, with a starting price of 17,980 marks, it was over 2,000 marks cheaper than the 323i. Certainly one reason why almost twice as many buyers opted for the carbureted 320.

This makes the 323i rarer, more exclusive, and more expensive today. Furthermore, its unique selling point remains as fascinating today as it was then: the dual-branch exhaust system with two separate tailpipes under the left and right ends of the chrome bumper – a feature that links it to the BMW 507, currently the most expensive classic BMW. The legendary roadster of the 1950s costs easily 100 times the price of the 323i.

However, as Classic Analytics has determined, almost all E21 models have at least doubled in value over the last ten years, and in percentage terms the 316 has actually increased the most over the last five years.

The value development is unlikely to continue at such a rapid pace in the coming years, as the successor E30 has long since overtaken the E21 in the popularity rankings, according to experts.

According to Classic Analytics expert Frank Wilke, the E21 got off to a rather rocky start: Die-hard 02 drivers found the first 3 Series lacking in zippy and dynamic handling, while the developers deliberately focused on more comfort and a larger interior – and they proved right in the long run. The E21's variety only refers to the engine, with the exception of the Baur top convertibles and the Alpina versions. In Wilke's view, the most sought-after model today is still the powerful 323i sedan; good examples aren't available for less than €30,000.

An example of market prices for this rarely traded model: In May 2025, a low-miler 323i was up for auction on the Swedish auction platform Bilweb: Extremely low and verifiable mileage (around 36,000 km) and, rare enough for the 323i, unmodified. For Frank Wilke, "at second glance, a few glooms appear in the blue and white sky: The car racked up most of its total mileage in the first five years, after which it sat unused for many years. The owner, reportedly an experienced mechanic, carried out maintenance and repairs himself and was not careful about the cost. But why, then, does the car have 30-year-old tires? In addition, the green/green color combination is not for everyone, and potential buyers have to do without sought-after extras such as sports seats, a sports transmission, a sporty suspension setup, or even air conditioning. With these reservations, the final bid of the equivalent of around €34,000 would be quite in line with the market, says Wilke. However, the seller was unwilling to part with the vehicle for the price reached. Perhaps it will soon be auctioned again. Current BMW offers from Bilweb can be found here .