1981 BMW 7 Series Sapphire Blue Great Deal!

This 1981 BMW 733i is a stock E23 sedan with a 3.2-liter straight six and a 5-speed manual transmission. A mid-production example of the first BMW 7-Series, this example retains some early trim features and has an indicated 145k miles. Sapphire Blue metallic paint shows UV fading on the roof as well as assorted chips and scratches throughout. Body panels are damage free aside from occasional small dents and dings. Corrosion is present on both front fenders along with the lower rear valance and rear fender lip. A small area of bubbling on the passenger door is also present. New 15? basketweave wheels were purchased from BMW in 2016 and wear bright roundels along with fresh Yokohama touring radials with less than 1,500 miles. Early US market E23s featured larger bumpers, chromed mirrors, and chromed door handles. Factory decals are present in the door jambs and all glass looks original. Plush covers are included as a gift, the interior is in very good condition. Cracking is noted on the dash top as well as the front driver's side door panel. the wood work is very nice as well. Power windows were standard for the US model and work quickly, while the electric sunroof is currently inoperative. A replacement shift knob has been added but the rest of the interior remains stock including the four-spoke steering wheel, light-up check panel and cassette player with early LED display and separate fader knob. Recent work has included installation of a new alternator, battery and fuel filter in 2016. The radiator was replaced in 2014 and though the clutch-operated cooling fan has been removed, the engine runs at operating temperature during normal driving and is cooled by an auxiliary fan when in traffic for extended periods. The engine bay shows its age but retains largely stock components including an intact hood pad. Exhaust piping was partially replaced in 2015 along with a new muffler, and the powerplant is said to sound healthy and pull well to redline. Shifting is via a 5-speed manual transmission, an uncommonly seen option in the USA. New clutch master and slave cylinders were installed in 2016. One four-piston front brake caliper was rebuilt in 2016 along with fitting of new front pads. Service records cover 1989-1997 and from 2009 until present day, including a handwritten log from the early 1990s and a detailed spreadsheet containing mileage, dates, work performed and by whom. Original owner's books and manuals are also included. The seller is a long-time BMWCCA member and encourages questions during the auction. Panels exhibit uniform gaps, straight lines and no noticeable rust (other than stated) is present. Clean Florida Title.