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BMW - Serie 3 (1996)
Welcome to the definitive doorway into BMW Serie 3 price and the timeless appeal of the classic 1996 model. Whether you’re scouting a used BMW Serie 3 price or querying what is a 1996 BMW Serie 3 worth, this overview will guide you through specs, depreciation trends, and market positioning for this iconic luxury sedan.
At its core, the 1996 BMW 320i represented Deutsche Motor's archetypal blend of performance, comfort, and design. Back then, it carried a factory price around €17,000—varied by trim, options, and regional taxes. Today, that car sits firmly within the “used BMW Serie 3 price” spectrum offered by global dealerships and online marketplaces.
- Engine: 2.0‑liter inline‑4 (BMW M50) producing 115 horsepower
- Transmission: 5‑speed manual or optional 5‑speed automatic
- Fuel Type: Regular unleaded gasoline
- Dimensions: Length 4,598 mm | Width 1,729 mm | Height 1,431 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,600 mm
- Weight: 1,420–1,520 kg depending on options
- Trim Levels: 318i, 320i, 325i
- Drivetrain: Front‑engine, rear‑wheel drive (standard)
- Safety Features: Anti‑roll bars, ABS, electronic brake‑force distribution (optional)
- Performance: 0‑100 km/h in 8.3‑9.0 seconds (320i)
By looking at the BMW Serie 3 depreciation curve, owners and buyers can anticipate realistic value changes. Historically, the model typically loses 15‑20% of its value in the first year alive. When applied to a 1996 car that depreciated from €17,000 to its current market range, that’s roughly €7,000–€8,500. Over the next three years, vehicles experience an additional 25‑30% drop, reflecting both age and mileage creep. In high‑condition examples with low mileage, depreciation lags a few percentage points—often compensating for a 40‑year‑old car’s rarity.
- First Year: 15‑20% toward initial stock value
- Years 2–3: 25‑30% more, averaging a 40‑50% total drop from purchase price
- Long‑Term (4–6 years): Depreciation slows to 5‑8% annually (resale market equity stabilizes)
When you wonder “what is a 1996 BMW Serie 3 worth,” market data often places the base used BMW Serie 3 price in the €3,500–€6,500 range for acceptable mileage and body condition. Premium trims, like the 326i and the early 330i, can extend that upward to €7,000–€9,500 if well‑maintained. These figures vary depending on the regional demand (e.g., UK vs. US vs. EU), market supply, and the vehicle’s service history.
So, how does the 1996 BMW 320i compare to its contemporaries in similar segments?
- Mercedes‑B Class (W210 1996): Private buyers typically carry a “used BMW Serie 3 price” comparable, but the 320i edges out in performance and charm.
- Audi A4 (B5 1996): The A4 boasts comparable specs but is often priced slightly higher due to collectability.
- Volkswagen Passat (B3 1996): The Passat sits in the mid‑market, with cheaper used BMW Serie 3 price options for budgeters.
- BMW 5 Series (E34 1996): When stacked against the higher‑trim 5 Series, the 320i offers more maneueverability at a fraction of the price.
Last 20 car trackeds
| Last tracked date | Status | Price | Price rank | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 years ago | used | €5,990.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 2 years ago | used | €5,990.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 2 years ago | used | €5,900.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 2 years ago | used | €5,900.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 3 years ago | used | €5,000.00 | Unlock all links |