While everyone on the internet is mumbling how good BMW M cars are, only a few enjoy the best ‘ordinary’ cars of the Bavarian manufacturer. And some of the following cars are the ones to buy right now in 2023, as their value might increase over time.
BMW 130i E87 (E81)
The BMW 1-Series was one of these odd-looking cars from the era when Chris Bangle steered the brand’s design department. Although it might look like an ordinary hatchback to get from point A to point B in a more premium environment than, let’s say, a Volkswagen Golf, it is hard not to appreciate the mighty BMW 130i.
The E81 or E87 BMW 130i should be on every affordable hot-hatch list, because of its nearly perfect formula. With a powerful naturally-aspirated N52 straight-six 3.0 unit it sends 265 HP and 315 Nm (232 lb-ft) to the rear axle via a 6-speed manual gearbox. Perhaps the only necessary addition would be a plated LSD to have the best out of it.
Besides, the BMW 130i is relatively light when compared to the same engine-equipped 3-Series, tipping the scales at just 1375 kg (3031 lbs). A fun car indeed!
BMW 320is E30
Everyone knows the iconic BMW M3 E30. The widebody version of a classy coupe is one of the best-looking BMWs ever made. However, there was its little brother, designed for Italian and Portuguese markets – the BMW 320is.
It featured the slightly smaller, although even higher revving S14B20 engine that had 189 HP and 212 Nm (156 lb-ft). Just like the conventional M3, the 320is had a fuel injection system with individual throttle bodies, making the 4-cylinder sound like a race engine. Also, the rear wheels were connected via a 5-speed dog-leg gearbox and had mechanical LSD.
Although the BMW 320is E30 sounds like a fun car to toss around the race tracks, the very limited production numbers made it a valuable collector’s item. It is unlikely to stumble upon such a car driven close to the edge of its limits.
BMW 328i E36
The baby M3 of the E36 is also known as a BMW 328i. These coupe models or saloon cars are so much fun, and yet, they still are somewhat affordable. The most powerful M-version of the E36 is getting more and more expensive every year.
The BMW community loves every inch of the E36’s design. This generation of the 3-Series perfectly defined the brand’s identity for years, and it was a great evolution both design and engineering-wise. The BMW 328i has a potent 2.8 liter 6-cylinder that may extract some extra power just by some bolt-ons.
Also, the E36 generation non-M cars had mechanical locking differentials that made enthusiasts fall in love with these sporty BMWs.
BMW 540i E39
The E39 generation is known for its good engineering and extremely wide range of models. Even though this 5-Series generation is getting closer to its 30th anniversary, it aged very well both in terms of its capabilities today and in terms of looks. It still is a modern BMW.
And the BMW 540i is perhaps an ideal family car. It is Tinder for features like fun and comfort because of the perfect match of aluminum V8 and proper sound insulation. The E39 540i can deliver so much fun for a single enthusiast who is looking for motivation to get to work. But on the other hand, it also may do a decent job providing effortless trips for the whole family.
This saloon car may be an amazing choice for someone who is traveling from one city to another, as long as the fuel consumption of a thirsty V8 does not make any holes in the pocket.
BMW 540i Touring E34
Have you ever wondered about an estate car that could do burnouts, and slides, and look cool and classy at the same time? The BMW 540i E34 Touring may be unbeatable in this particular regard.
It basically had no competition. While the wagons of Mercedes-Benz had no manual gearbox options for more powerful engines, the estate models from Ingolstadt (Audi) were too compromised by their unsporty character. They were fast but nowhere as fun as the BMW 540i Touring.
286 HP and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) may seem like a mediocre number today, but back then, it was more than enough. The BMW 540i Touring could still put some modern hot hatches to shame and although this Beemer may be quite expensive today, it will be even more pricey next year. Definitely a worthy investment.
Which non-M BMW do you think is the best? Maybe one that’s not on this list? Please shoot your comment here!
