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BMW 3 Series E21 323i (143 Hp)
Overall Rating
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 190 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1110 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 9.5 s). The top speed reaches 190 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
323i (143 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The flagship performance model, offering excellent power and brisk acceleration for its class, making it a true driver's car.
Fuel Economy
Despite its performance, the fuel injection helps manage consumption, though it's still a thirsty engine when driven hard.
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:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E21: 1977 - 1982).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | E21 |
| Modification (Engine): | 323i (143 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1978 |
| End of production: | 1982 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 143 Hp @ 5800 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 61.7 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 190 Nm @ 4500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M20B23 More details about the engine M20B23 |
| Engine displacement: | 2316 |
| 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: | 4.25 l |
| Coolant: | 12 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 80 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 76.8 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 12.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.8 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 190 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.2 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 9 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1110 |
| Max. weight: | 1540 |
| Max load: | 430 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 404 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 58 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4355 mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1610 mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1380 mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 2563 mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1366 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1373 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 9.5 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
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