BMW E21 models


  • 315: The most economical model, introduced to the market in reaction to the second "oil crisis" in late 1979, with a 4-cylinder M10 1.6 L engine and a single downdraft carburetor, 75 bhp (56 kW; 76 PS). More spartan than the other E21 models, it was the last E21 to be built and shared production with the E30.
  • 316: The original 3-series base model with M10 1.8 L engine, 90 bhp (67 kW; 91 PS).
  • 318: Slightly more powerful version 98 bhp (73 kW; 99 PS) with 1.8 L engine.
  • 318i: An upgraded version of the 316 featuring the M10 1.8 L engine fitted with a Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system, introduced in 1979 as successor to the carburetted 318.
  • 320: Featured an M10 four-cylinder engine with a Solex 2-barrel downdraft carburetor, 109 bhp (81 kW; 111 PS).
  • 320i: Upgraded version of 320 with an M10 engine; Bosch K-Jetronic (LambdaO2) fuel injection, 125 bhp (93 kW; 127 PS) and limited slip differential also as an option.
  • 320/6: Featured the new BMW 6 cylinder engine, the M20 2.0 L, and a Solex 4-barrel downdraft carburetor; replaced the 320/4 from 1979 on.
  • 320is: The 1980 320is for North America offered Recaro seats, a rear antiroll bar, a limited-slip differential, cross-spoke wheels, a larger-diameter front antiroll bar, a 3-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel, and a special front air dam.
  • 323i: Featuring the M20 and Bosch K Jetronic fuel injection, the 323i was the top model of the line with 143 bhp (107 kW; 145 PS) and four-disc power-assisted brakes. A 5-speed overdrive gearbox became standard after 1980. Options include power steering, a 5-speed close-ratio 'dogleg' sport gearbox, and 25% limited slip differential.
Manufacturer BMW
Production 1975–1983
1,364,039 built[1]
Assembly Munich, Germany
Regensburg, Germany
Rosslyn, South Africa
Torres Vedras, Portugal
Jakarta, Indonesia (Gaya Motor)
Predecessor BMW 2002
Successor BMW E30
Class Entry-level luxury car / Compact executive car
Body style 2-door sedan
2-door convertible
Layout FR layout
Engine 1.6L I4
1.8L I4
2.0L I4
2.3L I6
2.0L I6
Transmission 3-speed automatic
4-speed manual
5-speed manual
Wheelbase 2,563 mm (100.9 in)
Length 4,355 mm (171.5 in)
Width 1,610 mm (63.4 in)
Height 1,380 mm (54.3 in)