1996 BMW 316i COMPACT SE - 34,297 MILES

KEY FACTS

• An exceptionally original example of the modern classic coupe, with very low mileage.
• It is powered by a 101bhp 1.6-litre inline-four, coupled to a five-speed manual transmission.
• The car was in long-term single ownership since new, transferring to their spouse’s name when they passed away, and was then acquired by the current owner.

EQUIPMENT AND OPTIONS

• Finished in Alpine White with Anthracite woven ‘structure’ fabric upholstery, the car was ordered in SE specification that added a tilt/slide electric sunroof, electric windows and mirrors, ‘city’ floor mat set, and a Blaupunkt Milano RCR45 stereo.
• The car also has the three-spoke ‘Sport’ steering wheel, rear parking sensors, and remote central locking.
• It is accompanied by the original bill of sale date 16/08/1996, when the original plate was P372 RBV (which is still stored in the boot). The current registration will be removed in the event of a successful auction, so it should return to this P-plate.
•  The original leather book wallet is also present plus all the literature and the service book, and the stereo code card.

CONDITION

• No known bodywork damage.
• Its paintwork is believed to be original, with the exception of the bonnet, which the vendor was told had been repainted. The finish still presents very well, commensurate with the low mileage. It has just been treated to a £250 detailing session, which included a paint correction treatment, and the detailer commented on the car’s excellent condition for its age.
• While there are no rips or tears in the cloth upholstery, the vendor describes the appearance as fair, given that the fabric seat covers and rear parcel shelf have faded somewhat. There are also some small marks on the cloth, but overall it is in very good shape. The headlining is sagging slightly at the rear.
• One of the remote keys has some wear, but the other is as-new.
• There are no known electrical or mechanical faults.
• The most recent MOT test was on 24 June 2020 at 34,300 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass with advisories regarding slight corrosion on the front-to-rear brake pipes and fuel lines, as well as on the offside front brake pipe.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The previous owner reportedly carried out the most recent service himself in April 2020, which comprised an engine oil and filter change, plus a new air filter. A new set of ignition leads has just been installed.
• Its original service book is stamped by BMW up to 18,138 miles, and thereafter there is a receipt from Kwik-Fit dated to 2007 for new brake discs and pads, a new brake cylinder, a full service and a new battery, all at a total cost of £492.30.

SUMMARY

This BMW 316i Compact SE is a smart example of the first-generation 3 Series hatchback, which has very low mileage from new and presents in good order. It could be a tidy addition to any BMW collection, or a great entry point to modern classic ownership for a younger driver.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.

Please note: the cherished plate shown on the vehicle is not included in the sale. It will be switched back to an age-related registration plate in the event of a successful auction.