1979 BMW 3 Series

Evolve Motors and Chicago Car Club are pleased to present this '79 323i Baur
BMW Serial #: 6508285
Baur Serial #: 000340-01
Assembled by BMW in August of 1978, this 323i was destined for the European market, as were all 323is. Here in the United States, we were limited to only the four-cylinder variants of the E21, the first of BMW's famed 3-series. The US-spec cars were a joy to drive, but were saddled by a lack of power. They handled well, but didn't feel quite lively enough when you got on the throttle. The European market received the 323i in addition to the four-cylinder variants, which was equipped with a 2.3L 6-cylinder, which turned the E21 from a fun commuter to a properly sporty car. Karosserie Baur, a Stuttgart-based coachbuilder, saw an opportunity in the BMW E21. Baur would take brand new E21s and convert them to Targas; however, the term Targa was already in use by Porsche, so Baur referred to the cars as TC, or “Top Cabrio”. This particular TC1 was actually produced during Baur's first year of E21 modification, it's one of only 1659 Baur TC1 323is ever built! This is one of very, very few TC1 323is in the United States. Baur's TC1 was so well received that they continued on to make the TC2, TC3, and TC4
Exterior
Right around the year 2000 this car was brought to Ultimate BMW in New York, where they stripped the car down, repaired a couple dings and signs of rust, and repainted the car in an OEM grey that was slightly darker than the original Polaris. The car presents very well, as one would expect from a restored car. Paint looks great everywhere except for the passenger side of the hood, where it looks like some dust may have found its way into the paint. It's by no means glaring, but there is some texture to that side of the hood (see photos). Aside from that, all panels are blemish-free and shine brilliantly. The Baur top was just serviced, during which time the plastic rear window was replaced. Top folds as it should and the grey leather boot is in great shape. Chrome side mirrors do show some oxidation, and chrome Euro bumpers are showing a bit of aging. Wheels are in excellent shape, as are the tires, which have 9/32” tread depth remaining at all four corners
Interior
As you'll note from the photos, all dash text is in German. While not too shabby, the interior isn't quite as well-presented as the exterior. Blaupunkt Lexington works, as does heat. AC blows, though not very cold. Seats are fairly tired, driver's seat is fraying a bit. The dash has a couple light cracks. Carpet is in good shape throughout, with no tears or stains. Door panels are in great shape and are free of any scuffing. Overall, this car looks like it's been enjoyed with the top down and the sun out, which is just what we'd want to do with it too
Mechanical
In 2014, after six years of sitting stationary in a garage in New York, this car had a thorough mechanical sorting, to the tune of over $10,000. Receipt from The Little Garage in Huntington New York in-hand. Work performed includes a rebuild of the fuel distributor, as well as replacement of the water pump, hoses, timing belt, timing belt tensioner, fuel pump, fuel tank sending unit, fuel filter, air slide valve, warm up regulator, spark plugs, battery, ignition lock, trunk lock, and steering lock. Both fuel tanks were removed and cleaned with acid, as well as the inside re-coated. This car fires right up and runs extremely well (it'd better after that service!). It's quick, nimble, and an absolute blast to drive. There is very little rust on the car. Take a look at the inside of the truck, extremely nice. Underneath, floor boards and rockers are in great shape. There's some surface rust on various components, but no through rot or areas of concern. This car is ready to be driven and enjoyed by its next owner
Please feel free to reach out to Jake at 773-267-2684 with any further questions