What is the cheapest Classic Car Insurance for a BMW E21 & E30?

BMW is hugely popular with classic car fans, thanks to an excellent mix of reliability and driver enjoyment. One of the most popular models is the 3-series. Launched in 1975, it'll be celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2020.  

Can I get it on a classic policy?

The E21 and E30 are considered classics by most insurers, while the E36 qualifies for most classic policies. But despite being launched in 1998, the E46 is a bit hit and miss as to whether or not it meets classic criteria.

What are the benefits?

As well as being with a specialist insurer, a classic policy will often offer benefits such as limited mileage discounts, free European cover, agreed valuation and club member discounts

How much are they worth?

Prices vary wildly for 3-series, but for £3500 you should be able to pick up a decent version of either a 316 or 320 of any generation.

What to look for when buying one?

Thanks to a slighly tail happy engineering design, we'd recommend checking them for accident damange, worn tyres and suspension components. Early 3-series can also rust with the best of them.

How can I lower the cost of my insurance

Insurers often offer discounts if you’re a member of a classic car club. When it comes to the any BMW one of the biggest clubs is the BMW Car Club. You could also get yourself a discount by keeping the miles down. If you've recently passed your test, consider taking a PassPlus, IAM or other driver qualification - some insurers will chip a bit off your premium if you do. Keeping your car garaged is also another good idea.

What about modifications?

Always tell your insurer about any modifications to the vehicle - some modifcations such as security systems or tracking devices can reduce your premium. But if your insurer knows your car is modified, you'll most likely get like-for-like cover so you won't be out of pocket if you need to make a claim.

Insurance quotes

The following fully-comprehensive insurance quotes are based on a 40-year-old Cambridgeshire-based man in full-time employment. He is named driver on another car and has clean UK licence. Mileage is limited to 3000 a year and the car is kept garaged overnight. The value for each model is £3500.

* Sometimes we show a link with a * next to it. It means that it is an affiliate link and as a result helps HonestJohn.co.uk stay free to use. It's tracked to us and if you go through it, it can sometimes result in a payment or benefit to the site.