New BMW 333i Homage celebrates SA icon with 33 exclusive units
BMW South Africa has revived its legendary E30 333i with a limited-edition 333i Homage, auctioned online to mark 50 years of the 3 Series.
Known as the ‘unicorn’ of BMWs, the uniquely South African E30 333i is a sought-after collector’s car worldwide.
The Citizen reports that, as only 204 units of the E30 BMW 333i were built in Rosslyn from 1985 to 1987, getting your hands on one is almost impossible. A specimen occasionally goes under the hammer and has been known to fetch well over R3m.
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the 3 Series and the 45th anniversary of the 333i, BMW South Africa has unveiled a limited-run modern interpretation of the iconic car. Only 33 units of what is called the 333i Homage will be sold exclusively through an online auction that starts today.
It will share the virtual bidding floor with a reinterpretation of another Mzansi classic, the BMW 325iS Homage, which is also limited to just 33 units.
BMW 333i: SA’s M3
The E30 BMW 333i was South Africa’s answer to the first M3, which was only built in left-hand drive. It was powered by a 3.2-litre straight-six engine that produced 146kW and 295Nm of torque.
The Homage editions won’t be built in Rosslyn like the E30 models. They are manufactured in Mexico, where the 2 Series Coupe — on which the Homage editions are based — is produced. The BMW 2 Series Coupe is seen as a spiritual successor to the E30 due to its three-box proportions and compact dimensions.
The 3.0-litre straight-six turbo petrol engine, carried over from its donor model, the M2, is unchanged. It produces 353kW and 600Nm, sent to the rear wheels. Of the 33 units to be auctioned, 28 will feature an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, while the remaining five will have six-speed manual gearboxes. The latter, which makes 50Nm less torque, is expected to be the most sought-after of the lot.
Homage edition looks the part
Special features include a carbon roof, M Driver’s Pack, Alpina wheels, quad exhaust pipes, 333i Homage decals, bespoke spoilers and front splitter, carbon bucket seats, and an armrest covered in German-sourced original second-generation Überkaro tartan upholstery. A commemorative plaque completes the cabin detailing.
The Homage edition is available in Alpine White, Sapphire Black, Brooklyn Grey, Zandvoort Blue and Fire Red paintwork.
The BMW 333i Homage’s reserve price is R1 960 000 — R378 666 and R389 012 more than the manual and automatic BMW M2 respectively. All proceeds fetched over and above the reserve price will be donated to charity.
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