1981 BMW 316 | Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire

A 1981 BMW 316, the compact two-door saloon from the E21, the first generation of the 3 Series. It is known for a dashboard angled towards the driver and neat, restrained period styling, with rear-wheel drive and a 1.8-litre four-cylinder in these later cars. This one is gold with a brown interior, largely original and in very good condition. It sits lower on 323i suspension, and its 15-inch BBS Mahle wheels are painted in Bola Brown to echo the cabin. The gearbox is an automatic, where the 316 was more often a manual, which keeps slow rolling shots smooth. Gold paint and brown tones give photography, fashion and editorial shoots a warm period palette, and the upright saloon shape suits film and TV set around 1980. The lowered stance and BBS wheels add detail for music videos and advertising. It also makes an understated wedding car. The car is based in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire.