Year: 1982

Make: BMW

Model: 320I

VIN: WBAAG4306C8069698

Miles: 1,902 since build

Engine: CAtuned 2.55L Hartge Sourced Build

Transmission: 5-speed manual

Exterior Color: White

Interior Color: Black

Vehicle comes with:

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Wheels: Sixteen inch three piece BBS RM wheels

Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport 3

Front size: 205/45ZR16

Front date: 2022

Front tread depth: 9/32

Rear Size: 245/45R16

Rear Date: end of 2020

Rear Depth: 9/32

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BMW 320i

European Delivery | CAtuned 2.55L Hartge Sourced Build | 5 Speed | Wavetrac LSD

Overview

MOTORVAULT is proud to present this extensively documented 1982 BMW 320i E21, a European Delivery example transformed into what many enthusiasts have described as the M3 BMW never built.

Originally delivered in Germany to its first owner, this car began life as a factory European market example before receiving a comprehensive CAtuned Motorsports build centered around a Hartge sourced M20 powerplant, five speed conversion, limited slip differential, and supporting chassis upgrades.

This is not simply a modified E21. It is a fully realized, period correct tuner interpretation of the shark nose chassis.

European Delivery Provenance

Factory European Delivery vehicle
Original owner traveled to Germany and took delivery
Later acquired by an enthusiast in California
Refinished in Alpine White
Early style mirrors and Euro bumpers installed for cleaner period aesthetic

The vehicle has passed through knowledgeable BMW enthusiasts at every stage of its life.

CAtuned Build Background

The build was completed approximately 3 to 4 months before the June 2021 acquisition and served as Igor’s personal vehicle at CAtuned.

The engine originated from a European Hartge E30 donor that was intended for a separate build before that chassis was deemed too rusty. The motor was then incorporated into this E21 project.

The car was previously offered on Bring a Trailer in May 2021, where it generated significant enthusiast discussion and validation.

Engine and Performance

M20 based 2.55L configuration
Hartge sourced engine components
Estimated 200 horsepower conservatively
Naturally aspirated configuration
Getrag 260 five speed manual transmission
3.73 ratio differential
Wavetrac limited slip unit

With an estimated curb weight of approximately 2600 to 2700 pounds, the power to weight ratio delivers genuinely strong performance even by modern standards.

The additional two cylinders add roughly 80 pounds over the nose compared to a four cylinder E21. Battery relocation helps offset that weight distribution.

The driveline pairing is widely regarded within the E21 community as the ideal combination for spirited driving and real world usability.

Differential

Wavetrac 3.73 limited slip differential

Billet machined construction
Helical torque biasing design
Maintains drive under zero load conditions
Smooth street friendly engagement

This is a modern, highly respected upgrade over factory clutch style limited slip units.

Speedometer and Cluster

The gauge cluster has been modified and calibrated using GPS, as discussed by the builder in the official CAtuned build video.

GPS based calibration ensures accurate speed readings independent of transmission output sensors or differential gearing changes, a thoughtful solution given the five speed and final drive modifications.

Suspension and Braking

CAtuned adjustable coilovers
Lowered stance
Ride height adjustable
Firm but composed driving character

CAtuned big brake kit
Wilwood front calipers
Upgraded braking system

The ride is firm consistent with its stance, yet adjustable for preference.

Exterior

Alpine White finish
Euro bumpers
Early style mirrors
Dual headlamp front end
Rear apron treatment
Manual sunroof

Sixteen inch three piece BBS RM wheels

The understated presentation hides the mechanical capability beneath.

Interior

Recaro sport seats
Leather wrapped dashboard with French seams
Custom trim and headliner
GPS calibrated cluster
Manual sunroof

The leather dash with French seams is widely praised as a standout detail that elevates the entire cabin.

Tires Installed After Current Ownership

Michelin Pilot Sport 3

Front
205/45ZR16

Rear
245/45R16

Premium ultra high performance tires properly matched to the chassis setup.

Mileage and Title

Purchased June 2021
Odometer at purchase 999,994 miles
Odometer rolled over

Odometer currently displays 1,902 miles
1,908 miles driven since June 2021 acquisition

Indiana title reflects Exceeds Mechanical Limits designation Document_2026-02-10_163302

Mileage should be considered TMU due to rollover, with documented post build miles known.

Emissions Disclosure

Vehicle does not currently have catalytic converters.
Will not pass California smog without additional investment.
Buyers should verify local compliance requirements.

Enthusiast Validation

Multiple seasoned BMW enthusiasts described this car as the E21 M3 BMW never built.

A properly engineered six cylinder shark nose in the spirit of Hartge, Alpina, and AC Schnitzer tuner builds of the era.

With documented build pedigree and strong community validation, this represents a rare opportunity to acquire a fully sorted super E21 for less than the cost to replicate it today.

MOTORVAULT Perspective

European Delivery provenance
Hartge sourced M20 powerplant
Five speed manual conversion
Wavetrac limited slip differential
Adjustable suspension
Big brake system
GPS calibrated cluster
Michelin Pilot Sport 3 tires
Documented Bring a Trailer history
1,908 miles driven since 2021 acquisition

This is a well documented, enthusiast grade build that blends factory heritage with period correct tuner philosophy.

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Please consider this an invitation to visit MOTORVAULT! If you have any questions or wish for more information about this vehicle or any other vehicle, please do not hesitate to contact:

Josh Stiegman - josh@motorvault.com // 317-643-1444

Brian Henry - brian@motorvault.com // 317-520-4663

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