What Price Would You Pay For Something Priceless?
Published: 10th May 2005
BMW 3 Series
Auction of BMW 318i ‘Democracy Car’ signed by Nelson Mandela
BMW (UK) Ltd has donated one of 10 limited edition ‘Democracy Cars’ signed by Nelson Mandela to the charity auction ‘Put Yourself in My Shoes’. The proceeds from the auction of the car will benefit the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund and the UK children’s charities Norwood and Shine. The auction will take place on 9 June at London’s Madame Tussauds.
The 10 3 Series ‘Democracy Cars’ were built to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the first democratic elections held in South Africa. Workers at BMW’s Rosslyn Plant near Pretoria in South Africa generously agreed to donate their time for free to build the cars while BMW and its suppliers donated parts and components at no charge. To increase the value of the cars, Nelson Mandela kindly agreed to sign each of the vehicles. His signature is displayed on the interior trim panel located above the glove box next to a plaque verifying the authenticity of the signature.
Three of the 10 democracy cars remain in South Africa while the rest have been exported to countries including the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Germany to be auctioned for charity.
BMW 3-Series
Our BMW 3-Series Guide lists the full specification of the current UK 3-Series range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £21,145 - £49,415
Body Style:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 25
We have road tested the BMW 3-Series, to read our in-depth car reviews:
BMW 3-Series Review - Jun 2004
BMW 3-Series Review - May 2007
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 6th July 2008
