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What is the difference between OEM and after market front fenders. Were OEM built in Italy?

Probably the quality. But mind you, the new ones from BMW today, are also a crappy reproduction. I had mine rechromed, that came at a cost, but they are prefect now. Better than new.

I think it set me back about 1300 euro. Front and rear incluiding the bolt covers.

Re-chromed? I wasn't very clear. Front fenders (wings), are for a 1979 320i. I found a source where the seller indicates they are NOS with an Italian sticker. Just curious if these were OEM or after market. Doesn't really matter as I just purchased them and waiting arrival.

Keep us posted! But with the prices of oem parts being increased almost every month, oem prices are really getting out of hand.

Jeroen wrote:Keep us posted! But with the prices of oem parts being increased almost every month, oem prices are really getting out of hand.

They certainly are. I purchased these two for $300.00.

Thought you were talking about bumpers, my bad.

uwbuurman wrote:Thought you were talking about bumpers, my bad.

Not a problem. I thought perhaps you were. I was able to determine that E 21 fenders manufactured in Italy are after market. They are the same gauge metal but do require a modification for the turn signal. OEM fenders are indeed manufactured in Germany.

runsub5 wrote:

Jeroen wrote:Keep us posted! But with the prices of oem parts being increased almost every month, oem prices are really getting out of hand.

They certainly are. I purchased these two for $300.00.

After more consulting with Walloth and Nesch I decided to buy the OEM front fender. Much more money, but should require less labor when installing. While the after market is the same gauge metal, it requires modification around the front turn signal. After 38 years of ownership it's going to the body shop on Monday for a complete body paint. The clear coat is entirely gone.

Well if the clearcoat is your only issue, be very happy! Most of us here are fighting rust... everywhere!

And indeed, the oem ones are expensive but they fit best

Yeah, good decision! But, ehm, what about some nice pics of your project.

Jeroen wrote:Well if the clearcoat is your only issue, be very happy! Most of us here are fighting rust... everywhere!

And indeed, the oem ones are expensive but they fit best

For the last 34 years I have driven the car only in the summer months. I replaced the rocker panels many years ago after driving the car in winter for the first 4 years of ownership.

uwbuurman wrote:Yeah, good decision! But, ehm, what about some nice pics of your project.

I will try and take some photos tomorrow.

I took some pictures today to show how bad the clear coat has deteriorated. Here's the link: https://photos.app.goo.gl/SZYCrv6bs3amPTMT2

Oh man, type 1 polaris!!! Cool. Here's mine.




Your e21 is due for a blowjob, indeed

uwbuurman wrote:Oh man, type 1 polaris!!! Cool. Here's mine.




Your e21 is due for a blowjob, indeed

Very nice 323!! I am not familiar with a "type 1" polaris metallic paint? While my 4 cylinder is still fun to drive, your 6 must be wonderful. I am probably foolish putting so much money back in to it. I am just not able to part with it. I forgot to add picture of the lower front fender. Will do this shortly.

Oh no, I mean, type 1, so Chrome side mirrors, steeper hanging front grille, different dash, with sliding heatercontrol and slightly different rear lights.

Polaris is just the color, available on both type 1 and 2.

By the way, my 323i is under construction since 2010... hope to drive her again from next spring onwards