BMW 3 Series E21 320i (125 Hp) Automatic
People\'s Opinion
N/A / 5
BMW 3 Series:
The BMW 3 series is a line of compact executive cars manufactured by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. It is the successor to the 02 series and has been produced in seven generations.
The first generation of the 3 Series was only available as a 2-door saloon; the model range expanded to include a 4-door saloon, 2-door convertible, 2-door coupé, 5-door estate, 5-door liftback and 3-door hatchback body styles. Since 2013, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed as the 4 Series; these styles no longer being included in the 3 Series....(Read more on Wikipedia)
E21 Overview:
BMW 3 Series (E21). With 170 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1090 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
Performance Verdict
A smooth and capable engine, the automatic transmission provides a more relaxed driving experience, suitable for those who prefer convenience.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy will be decent for an automatic six-cylinder of its time, benefiting from the fuel injection system.
Best Use Case:
Comfortable daily driving, city commutes, and highway cruising where ease of operation is paramount.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Engaging RWD driving dynamics and handling
- • Iconic BMW styling and classic appeal
- • Range of smooth and characterful engines (especially 6-cylinders)
- • Good build quality for its era
- • Strong enthusiast community and parts availability
Cons:
- • Rust can be a significant issue if not maintained
- • Safety features are rudimentary by modern standards
- • Fuel economy can be poor on larger carbureted engines
- • Interior plastics can degrade over time
- • Some parts can be expensive or hard to find for specific trims
Specifications:
| General: |
| Brand: | BMW |
|---|
| Model: | 3 Series |
|---|
| Generation: | E21 |
|---|
| Modification (Engine): | 320i (125 Hp) Automatic |
|---|
| Start of production: | 1975 |
|---|
| End of production: | 1977 |
|---|
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
|---|
| Body type: | Sedan |
|---|
| Seats: | 5 |
|---|
| Doors: | 2 |
|---|
| Engine: |
| Power: | 125 Hp @ 5800 rpm. |
|---|
| Power per litre: | 62.8 Hp/l |
|---|
| Torque: | 170 Nm @ 4000 rpm. |
|---|
| Engine Model/Code: | M10B20 |
|---|
| Engine displacement: | 1990 |
|---|
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
|---|
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
|---|
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
|---|
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
|---|
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
|---|
| Engine oil capacity: | 4 l |
|---|
| Coolant: | 7 l |
|---|
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
|---|
| Cylinder Bore: | 80 mm |
|---|
| Piston Stroke: | 66 mm |
|---|
| Compression ratio: | 9.7:1 |
|---|
| Performance: |
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
|---|
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 8.7 kg/Hp, 114.7 Hp/tonne |
|---|
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.4 kg/Nm, 156 Nm/tonne |
|---|
| Space: |
| Kerb Weight: | 1090 |
|---|
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 404 l |
|---|
| Fuel tank capacity: | 58 l |
|---|
| Size: |
| Length: | 4355 mm |
|---|
| Width: | 1610 mm |
|---|
| Height: | 1380 mm |
|---|
| Wheelbase: | 2563 mm |
|---|
| Front track: | 1366 mm |
|---|
| Rear (Back) track: | 1373 mm |
|---|
| Ride height (ground clearance): | 145 mm |
|---|
| Powertrain: |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
|---|
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
|---|
| Number of gears | 3 |
|---|
| Transmission type | Automatic |
|---|
| Front brakes | Disc |
|---|
| Rear brakes | Disc |
|---|
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
|---|
What’s the best feature of the BMW 3 Series? Tell us in the comments!