Rare E30 BMW 333i auctioned off for a record R3.5-million
1991 E30 BMW 325iS Evo 1 had bidders in a frenzy before being sold for R1.5-million.
In the mid-1980s, BMW South Africa took it upon themselves to manufacture a limited number of the 145kW E30 BMW 333i. As a homegrown high-performance model to rule the road and possibly with a thought of hitting local racetracks too.
But it was only with the advent of Opel producing their own homegrown 125kW Kadett Superboss in the early 1990s, which was 100% made to dominate local racing, that the first 145kW E30 BMW 325iS Evo 1 became a reality to take on this hot-hatch and regain their racing crown.
BMW 333i sets new record
Who would have thought back then that these cars would be such collector's items today, but a showstopping 1987 E30 BMW 333i in rare Henna Red with power steering stole the spotlight a recent Creative Rides auction. It hammered down at a staggering R3.5 million (including buyers commission) – a new high for the model.
Also commanding fierce bidding was a 1991 BMW 325iS Evo 1, which had buyers in a frenzy before settling at an equally impressive R1.5 million.
Creative Rides roared into 2025 with a triumphant start to the year, delivering stellar results in both its showroom sales and much-anticipated March online evening auction. The exclusive event drew in an impressive crowd of over 200 collectors, enthusiasts, as well as online spectators and bidders to set a new benchmark for participation. The auction featured 33 hand-picked collector cars, with BMWs emerging as the undisputed stars of the night as already mentioned.
ALSO READ: South Africa's own: Story behind the BMW 333i and 325iS
Cadillac gets in on the action
Another noteworthy highlight was the unrestored Estate Late Cadillac 62 Series Convertible, which achieved a remarkable R500 000, showing that American classics continue to hold their ground among collectors.
The excitement didn't end with the gavel. In the days following the auction, Creative Rides successfully concluded numerous showroom deals.
Creative Rides continues to attract the attention of serious collectors and sellers alike. Most importantly, numerous rare and exciting collector cars and private collections have recently been consigned to Creative Rides and will be showcased and offered for sale throughout 2025: promising another record-breaking year for the brand.
ALSO READ: WATCH: Rare BMW e30 333i sells for R3 million on auction
Strong collector's market
'We're thrilled by the response to our first major auction of the year,' said Creative Rides CEO Kevin Derrick.
'The turnout, the energy, and the prices achieved, especially for the BMWs, show just how strong the market is for quality collector cars.'
Creative Rides plans to break more records and deliver even more automotive icons to passionate buyers across the country during the rest of the year.
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