Regsitration: R282 OJO
Chassis: WBABK72040ET53530
Odometer: 109,915
Transmission: Manual
MOT: August 2026
- Rare and desirable factory manual 328i
- Genuine BBS staggered alloys, freshly refurbished with new tyres
- Extensive recent mechanical maintenance
- Classic BMW straight-six performance with open-top enjoyment
The BMW E36 has long since earned its place as one of the marque’s finest modern classics, combining timeless styling, balanced rear-wheel-drive handling and everyday usability in a way few cars of the era could match. Increasingly sought after in the right specification, genuine factory manual 328i convertibles are now becoming notably scarce, making this example all the more appealing.
Finished in an attractive metallic blue with contrasting light leather interior, this 328i presents very well for its age and mileage. The bodywork remains smart and honest overall, with only the sort of age-related marks one would expect from a cherished 27-year-old BMW. Importantly, all four jacking points are reported to be intact and usable, a significant consideration on any E36 and an encouraging sign of underlying integrity.
Inside, the cabin retains a wonderfully period BMW feel, complemented by an excellent factory specification. Rare original options include heated front seats, parking sensors and cruise control, all desirable additions that elevate this car above many standard examples. The light leather upholstery offers an appealing contrast to the exterior and gives the cabin an airy, elegant feel befitting an open-top grand tourer.
Power comes from BMW’s superb 2.8-litre straight-six, an engine renowned for its smoothness, reliability and effortless performance. In this case it is paired to the all-important factory manual gearbox, widely considered the most desirable transmission choice for enthusiastic drivers. The vendor advises that the engine runs very well, the gearbox performs correctly and there are no unwanted noises in operation. The clutch has reportedly been replaced recently, with no signs of slip.
Enhancing performance further is the sought-after M50 inlet manifold conversion, a popular and respected upgrade that sharpens throttle response and releases additional upper-range performance from the M52 engine. An uprated exhaust system has also been fitted, said to provide an excellent soundtrack without being overbearing. Lowering springs complete the stance, giving the car a purposeful appearance while retaining the classic E36 silhouette.
This BMW also benefits from considerable recent maintenance, demonstrating attentive ownership. Work carried out includes replacement tie rod ends, front wheel bearing, wheel speed sensor, lower control arm and steering knuckle, alongside extensive cooling and heater system renewal. This included replacement radiator and heater hoses, PCV valve and heater valve, a notably labour-intensive task requiring intake manifold removal, and therefore a valuable piece of preventative maintenance already completed.
The genuine factory BBS RC041 staggered alloy wheels are a real highlight. Recently powder coated and fitted with four new tyres, they suit the car perfectly and are highly sought after in their own right. A spare BMW wheel with tyre is also supplied in the boot well.
The hood is currently operated manually for opening and closing, and a temporary repair has been carried out to cure a slight leak. The tracking requires adjustment following recent steering work, while a rear tail light gasket would benefit from replacement, both straightforward matters for the next custodian. The vendor notes partial service history, with numerous invoices present, though the original service book has been lost.
With MOT until August, strong mechanical credentials and increasingly rare factory manual specification, this handsome E36 offers an excellent opportunity to acquire one of BMW’s most usable and enjoyable modern classics.
