Internally codenamed E3, BMW’s “New Six” lineup offered from 1968 till 1977 comprised sedans and coupes however by no means a wagon. Whereas there was an in-house Touring conversion, these automobiles served as service/help automobiles for racing groups. Some coachbuilders noticed a chance to fill the hole and determined to construct a wagon model primarily based on the E3.

One such firm was FLM Panelcraft, primarily based in London. It’s believed solely 12 automobiles have been ever made, and one in all them is rotting away in a storage in Manchester. The Late Brake Present’s Jonny Smith had the chance to rise up shut and private with the “barn discover” and uncover its fascinating story. It could appear the tailgate was borrowed from an Austin Maxi mixed with a bit of the E3 sedan’s trunk lid. Enjoyable reality – the automotive’s present proprietor changed the tailgate by sourcing the panel from an Austin Maxi donor automotive.

A former mechanic, Harry Taylor, the proprietor of this ultra-rare BMW Touring, has had the automotive for over 40 years, having purchased it in November 1982 for the princely sum of £400. It was in tough form again then, having partially burnt out. The automotive relies on a right-hand-drive 2500 mannequin in-built 1973 with an inline-six 2.5-liter engine linked to an automated transmission.

Though partially dismantled, all the pieces lacking is contained in the storage. In principle, the coachbuilt wagon may very well be absolutely restored however eradicating all that rust will take some time. Sitting some 35 years in a particularly humid storage has taken its toll on the automotive’s bodywork, though the underbody doesn’t look horrible.

Harry is considering parting with the obscure car, supplied the brand new proprietor is prepared to carry it again to its former glory and retain the license plate. In its heyday, the E3 Touring was used as a household wagon, which included a lavish journey to the stunning Saint Tropez in southern France.

Supply: The Late Brake Present / YouTube