BMW 2500 E3
The shark-nosed saloon that established BMW's sporting luxury credentials.
- Power
- 150 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.0 s
- Top speed
- 118 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$35k
About the BMW 2500 E3
The BMW E3, known as the 'New Six', marked the brand's return to the full-size luxury market in 1968, directly challenging Mercedes-Benz. The 2500 was the entry-level variant, featuring the legendary M30 straight-six engine which became a cornerstone of BMW performance for decades. Its design, penned under Wilhelm Hofmeister, introduced the iconic quad-headlight face and airy greenhouse that defined BMW styling for a generation. Collectors prize the E3 for its surprisingly modern handling, four-wheel disc brakes, and a driving experience that feels far more agile than its executive dimensions suggest.
BMW 2500 E3 specs
The BMW 2500 E3 produces 150 bhp (112 kW) and 211 Nm (156 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.0 seconds and has a top speed of 118 mph (190 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | 2500 |
| Generation | E3 |
| Trim | 2.5 |
| Years | 1968–1977 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Original price | About $5,600 when new |
| Engine | 2.5-litre M30 straight-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,494 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 150 bhp (112 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 211 Nm (156 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,400 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.0 s |
| Top speed | 118 mph (190 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,300 kg (2,866 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 115 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BMW 2500 E3 worth?
A typical BMW 2500 E3 is estimated to be worth $7,500 – $35,000 (about £5,600 – £26,000).
Its original price when new was about $5,600.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BMW 2500 E3 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW 2500 E3 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 23 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BMW 2500 E3 fun facts
- The E3 was the first BMW to feature the dual round headlights that became a signature design element for the brand for over 30 years.
- Despite being a large luxury saloon, the E3 body was engineered to be lighter than the contemporary E9 coupe.
- The 2500 variant was replaced in the US market by the 'Bavaria', a model created at the request of importer Max Hoffman to combine the 2500's lighter trim with the larger 2.8L engine.
