The 325iS and 333i badges should not need any explanation to local petrolheads. These two E30 BMWs are the stuff of legend. Now, BMW SA is paying tribute to these classics with modern-day interpretations known as the 325iS and 333i Homage editions.
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The BMW 325iS and BMW 333i are more than cars — they are part of South Africa’s story. The Homage editions bring that history into the present, celebrating our connection to these icons while creating a positive impact through charitable giving. It is heritage with purpose
– Rob Gearing, general manager of customer support at BMW Group South Africa
SA-only Specials
On the off chance that you don’t know, the 325iS and 333i were made in SA exclusively for the local market. The 333i, which was introduced in the mid 1980s, was a joint development with speed meisters, Alpina. The ‘Triple Three’ was fitted with a 3,2-litre inline-six that was taken from a 7 Series of the era. In addition, the engine was mated with a dog-leg, five-speed manual transmission. Larger, more powerful engine aside, the 333i had a bespoke body kit, Alpina alloys and decals down the flanks. Just over 200 units were built. It’s anyone’s guess how many still exist.
Click here to read about the rarest BMW M3 ever made.
The 325iS that was introduced in the 1990s was BMW’s answer to rivals in the hotly contested Group N racing series for standard production cars. The iS was based on a two-door 325i. Donor cars were fitted with an M Tech body kit boasting different bumpers and a larger rear spoiler. In addition it wore cross-spoke alloys. The 325i’s 2,5-litre engine was enlarged to 2,7 litres to liberate 145 kW initially, and 155 kW in later versions.
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2 is the new 3
Recent editions of the 3 Series have grown and moved upmarket. As a result the smaller 2 Series is considered the spiritual successor to the E30s of years gone. Fittingly, the 325iS and 333i Homage editions are based on 2 Series derivatives.
The BMW 325iS Homage is based on the BMW M240i xDrive. It is powered by a turbocharged 3,0-litre inline-six that develops 285 kW and 500 N.m of torque. The coupe can sprint from 0–100 km/h in 4,3 seconds thanks to its standard AWD and launch control system in the eight-speed automatic transmission.
Click here to read our driving review of the BMW M2 CS.
Like its namesake it has a double rear spoiler, a front splitter, heritage-style wheels and an M Sport Pro package. Colour options are limited to Mineral White, Sapphire Black, Skyscraper Grey and Fire Red. The cabin features M Sport seats, an armrest covered in original Überkaro tartan upholstery and a commemorative plaque.
The more potent BMW M2 serves as the starting point for the 333i Homage. The apex 2 Series uses the same turbocharged inline-six as the larger M3/4. 353 kW and 600 Nm of torque are all sent to the rear axle. Buyers can choose between an eight-speed auto’ or six-speed manual transmission.
Fittingly, the BMW 333i Homage wears Alpina wheels, ‘333i Homage’ decals, quad exhaust pipes, bespoke spoilers and a front splitter. Exterior colours are limited to Alpine White, Sapphire Black, Brooklyn Grey, Fire Red and Zandvoort Blue. The cabin features carbon-fibre bucket seats, an armrest covered in original Überkaro tartan upholstery and a commemorative plaque.
Pricing and sales info below the ad…
Pricing
The combined 66 units (33 each) of the BMW 325iS and 333i Homage editions have not yet been sold. Potential buyers can bid on them via an online auction, which starts on 21 October 2025. All proceeds will be donated to charities supported by BMW Group South Africa. Reserve prices are as follows:
BMW 325iS Homage Edition – R1 435 000
BMW 333i Homage Edition – R1 960 000
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