1974 BMW 3 Series 3.0L Petrol · XGP 718N
1974 BMW 3 Series (3.0L, petrol). First registered 01 Sept 1974. Recorded mileage 68,933 miles. MOT expired on 23 Feb 2023. Taxed until 01 May 2027.
- Make & Model
- BMW 3 SERIES
- Year / Origin
- 1974 · Personal Export
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 23 Feb 2023
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 May 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 68,933 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 3.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
XGP 718N Key Findings
- 1 MOT test recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 24/02/2022
- 68,933 miles recorded at latest MOT
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
XGP 718N MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
1 MOT test are recorded for this 1974 BMW 3 Series (XGP 718N) between February 2022 and February 2022.
The record contains 1 pass and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 0 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
Estimate current market value
Generate an instant valuation benchmark based on live market listings, vehicle mileage, and recent dealer auction figures.
Known faults for BMW 3 Series (E36)
Our database tracks 5 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
This 1971 BMW 3 Series in striking bronze represents a fascinating classic car opportunity with exceptionally low recorded mileage. However, its age means that careful physical inspection of the bodywork and mechanical components is essential before purchase.
When viewing this 1971 classic, a comprehensive rust inspection is paramount, as early BMWs are prone to corrosion in the sills, wheel arches, and chassis mounting points. Verify the service history thoroughly to trace how well the 29.9-litre equivalent powerhouse has been maintained over its life. It is also wise to check the condition of all rubber hoses, electrical wiring, and gaskets, which can degrade over decades regardless of mileage.
Running a classic car of this era involves specific financial considerations. While vehicles of this age may be exempt from standard MOT testing and vehicle excise duty depending on current UK legislation, fuel economy from a large 2985.0cc petrol engine will be relatively heavy compared to modern standards.
Insurance costs should be managed via a specialist classic car policy, which often offers limited-mileage discounts. Routine maintenance will require a budget for specialist mechanics or DIY upkeep, as parts for early 70s BMWs can occasionally command premium prices.
Estimated annual running cost: £1,200-£1,800 (excluding major restoration work).
Pay close attention to the areas highlighted in general classic car assessments, focusing heavily on structural integrity and corrosion. While the model's aggregate MOT data points to common modern failure points like headlamps, tyres, and shock absorbers, this 1971 example requires a deeper look at suspension bushes, braking systems, and fluid leaks.
Check the operation of all vintage electrical components and inspect the cooling system thoroughly to ensure the large petrol engine manages temperature correctly in modern traffic conditions.
First registered in July 1971 with a substantial 2985.0cc petrol engine, this classic BMW is a rare find on British roads. Its last recorded MOT in February 2022 showed a clean pass at 68,933 miles with zero defects. Given the vehicle's vintage status, prospective buyers must balance its appealing provenance against the inherent maintenance needs of a classic machine.
While aggregate MOT data for the wider 3 Series range shows an 80.5% pass rate with common issues centered around headlamps, tyres, and shock absorbers, a 1971 model predates most modern statistical reliability trends and relies entirely on individual condition.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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