The BMW New Class sedans of the 1960s were the cars that saved the company. Models like the 1500, 1800, and 2000 established the brand's reputation for building compact, sporty sedans and introduced the legendary M10 four-cylinder engine. They also debuted the 'Hofmeister kink' C-pillar design, a BMW styling cue that lasted for decades.
These sedans are the direct predecessors to the more famous 2002, and they offer a similar engaging driving experience. Collectors seek them for their historical importance and clean, functional design. The market is still developing, with an average price of $16,361 across 24 recent sales, making them an accessible entry into classic BMW ownership. However, the high sale of $95,000 proves that rare, perfectly restored variants like the 2000tii command serious money.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the primary concern. Thoroughly inspect the front and rear shock towers, rocker panels, floors, and the metal around the front and rear glass.
- The M10 engine is robust, but check for signs of a failing head gasket and listen for timing chain noise on high-mileage examples.
- Interior parts and exterior trim are very difficult to source. Prioritize finding a complete car, as hunting for missing chrome or dashboard pieces can be expensive and time-consuming.
- Check all suspension bushings and ball joints. Worn components ruin the car's sharp handling characteristics.
Prices range from $1,200 for project cars to $95,000 for rare, top-tier examples.
124 BMW New Class vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 14 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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