In-Person Auction
1987 BMW e30 333i Coupe
1987 BMW e30 333i Coupe
| Make | BMW |
| Model | e30 333i |
| Year | 1987 |
| Transmission | 5 speed Dogleg Gearbox |
| Engine | 3.2 L M30B32 six cylinder |
| Mileage Indicated | 148 700 km |
| Paperwork | Used |
With BMW Germany not making the 4-cylinder E30 M3 in right hand drive, BMW SA needed another plan to keep the brand at the forefront on the local race tracks. BMW SA showed its hand in 1985 launching the E30 333i, a homologation special for the production car-based Group 1 racing series.
At the heart of the 333i was the M30B32 3.2-litre straight six-cylinder engine (from the E23 733i), but together with German tuning specialist Alpina, it received numerous changes that resulted in a claimed 197hp and 285Nm of torque. Alpina input came in the form of engine and gearbox mounts, unique radiator, intake manifold, exhaust and air filter, a finned engine sump, onboard dash vent gauge (displaying engine and diff oil temp, oil pressure and vacuum) and revised Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection (that increased torque significantly at lower rpm).
A short-ratio ‘dogleg’ five-speed Getrag gearbox drove the rear wheels via a ZF limited-slip differential, with 25 per cent locking effect. Because of the space constraints, customers could choose to have air conditioning or power steering but not both. Tipping the scales at 1256kg the 333i was good for a claimed zero to 100kph acceleration time of 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 228kph.
Group 1 was cancelled in ’85 before the 333i could make a track impact but thankfully, for BMW fans the factory kept producing the cars into 1987. In total BMW SA produced 204 (205 including pre-production model) – making it the rarest BMW E30 derivative in the world.
This very original 1987 BMW e30 333i has all the original Alpina components as well at the original chassis plate, rivets and body stamps. It is finished in the iconic Henna Red paintwork (but due to the usual sun fading the henna red it has had a respray) with original black leather interior. It’s an aircon car and has some service invoicing from the well-known classic BMW workshop – Evolution 2 Motorsport.
Frequently Asked Questions
An in-person car auction is an event where vehicles are put up for sale to the highest bidder. It takes place in a physical location, such as an auction house or a designated venue, where potential buyers can attend the auction in person.
In an in-person car auction, registered bidders gather at the auction location and bid on the vehicles that are presented on the auction block. The auctioneer starts with an opening bid, and interested bidders raise their hands to place their bids. The bidding continues until there is only one bidder remaining, and that person wins the vehicle.
To participate in an in-person car auction, you need to register beforehand. Registration requirements include providing identification, proof of residence, and a deposit. Once registered, you can attend the auction and bid on the vehicles that interest you.
Yes, in-person car auctions allow potential buyers to inspect the vehicles before the auction begins. This inspection period gives you the opportunity to assess the condition of the vehicle and determine its value. It’s important to carefully inspect the vehicles you’re interested in and consider any potential repairs or issues.
Test drives are not allowed at in-person car auctions. However, you can check the interior, and examine the vehicle’s features.
Winning a bid at an in-person car auction is considered a binding contract. If you change your mind or fail to complete the payment, you will face consequences such as losing your deposit.
