Stranger Things fans have spotted odd detail about the 1983 BMW 733i Steve drives
Published on Dec 01, 2025 at 3:49 PM (UTC+4)
by Henry Kelsall
Last updated on Dec 01, 2025 at 3:49 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Mason Jones
Fans of Stranger Things have spotted an interesting detail about the 1983 BMW 733i that Steve Harrington drives.
The stunning 1980s saloon played a role in the fourth series of the hit show, and it has also played a prominent role in series five, too, the final season ever.
Stranger Things has featured an array of cars over the years, such as a 1976 Ford Pinto, but fans have a huge soft spot for the BMW in particular.
However, while it is now a TV icon, fans of the show have been left bemused by one aspect of it.
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The price of the 1983 BMW 733i
Users on Reddit pointed out the unusual aspect of the car several years ago.
In the series, the BMW is portrayed as the first car that Harrington owned and drove.
But those social media users have been left a bit puzzled by the car.
Working out the value of the car, they have stated that this BMW would have cost $34,300 to buy back in 1983.
To put that into context, that is the equivalent of $86,563 in 2025.
What that has done is left many puzzled as to how Harrington and his family could afford the car.
In the show, Harrington doesn’t appear to be particularly wealthy, nor does his family.
So that begs the question as to how they bought it.
How good is the 1983 BMW four-door?
No matter the value, there is no denying how good a car the 1983 BMW 733i really is.
It was a first-generation E23 model, and the car was produced from 1977 to 1986.
Part of the BMW Seven Series, the 1983 model had a 2.5-liter M30B32 straight-six engine under the hood.
This engine produced up to 181hp and 195lb-ft of torque.
It is certainly one of the most attractive BMWs produced during that period.
Plus, the interior is incredibly refined and also incredibly comfortable.
Stranger Things never revealed how Harrington got the car or how he afforded it.
But it has still given us an amazing TV star, and one that really does look the part as well.
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Henry is a content writer with nearly ten years experience, having written for various publications since 2017. Qualifying with a Sports Journalism degree from Staffordshire University, Henry loves all things automotive but has a particular soft spot for classic Japanese cars and anything Lancia. He also has a curious passion for steam locomotives.
