While combustion powered versions of the new 3 Series will follow, it’s unlikely that they’ll make as much of a splash as the i3. It’s the biggest moment for electric BMWs since the very first i cars, the core saloon launching with battery power first and foremost. There’s additional significance for the i3, too, as it’s the Neue Klasse saloon (and iX3 SUV) that launches a new styling and design direction for BMW - see the latest 7 Series for evidence.
Therefore even by the standards of all-new model generations, the latest 3 Series is a huge one. And while it’s nice to know a future exists for 3.0-litre 3 Series (hopefully), there will also be some who find the Neue Klasse just a tad too futuristic. And for those that like their small BMWs with an old school flavour, this 340i should be right up their street.
In 2015, the 40i replaced the 335i, introducing to the world the now-legendary B58 straight six turbo. Back then, little was known about the 3.0-litre’s tuning potential (or how well it might suit a Supra), but it was the perfect fit for a non-M3 flagship: smooth, sonorous, powerful and parsimonious. It also hooked up brilliantly to the eight-speed auto, further improving efficiency and performance. It was the natural transmission choice for the 340i, even as the optional one.
This one isn’t an eight-speed, though, as it’s one of very few manual 340is. Wherever a clutch has been offered with this engine (think Supra and 1 Series also) it’s sold in tiny numbers, exactly because the auto complemented the engine so well, but as an enthusiast it’s hard not to be intrigued by such an engine with manual control. They’re surely going to be the most collectable cars, one day, as six-speed BMWs are phased out.
But there’s plenty to recommend this one right now. Amazingly it’s covered just 11,000 miles in more than a decade; to get this engine in a 3 Series with fewer miles, you’ll need a much newer (much more expensive) model. And although not perfect, with some kerbing to the wheels and a scuffed splitter, there’s nothing fundamentally amiss. It’s also the only manual out there on PH right now; those truly committed to the cause can overlook a couple of blemishes.
As with my old 335i, in fact, it seems like the money was spent on getting the big engine rather than any fancy options for this 340. Note the missing heated seats, an aftermarket screen to get the bigger display, and more basic layout for the driver’s dials. Still, if you’re going for the old school vibe, the alternative view is that distractions are at a minimum here. Simpler is lighter, too…
According to the ad, this 3 Series has been stored in a dry garage, and has just been serviced to add to its comprehensive history. As if the spec didn’t make it rare enough, the minimal mileage must make it one of a kind. With red paint on top. Someone really was intent to make a 3 Series unlike any other.
The asking price is £23,500, which is far from the most that can be paid for a B58 in this era of 3 Series. For a late, low mileage auto, anything up to £27k is being asked, indicative of the regard in which the F3X generation is still held. (The highest mileage examples are sub-£15k.) It’s going to take a real ‘save the manuals’ enthusiast to take the plunge on this 340i, but it’s hard not to smile that such a spec curio exists. And you know which one will get the collectors in a frenzy come 2040. Just look at the premiums attached to E36s and 46s with a clutch now…
SPECIFICATION | BMW 340i
Engine: 2,998cc straight-six turbo
Transmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 326@5,500-6,500rpm (standard)
Torque (lb ft): 332@1,380-5,000rpm (standard)
CO2: 179g/km (NEDC)
MPG: 36.7 (NEDC)
First registered: 2016
Recorded mileage: 38,000
Price new: £38,125 (standard)
Yours for: £22,995
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