1987 BMW (E30) M3

This BMW (E30) M3 is a fantastic example of the iconic performance car, presented with smart paint and bodywork and benefitting from a recent engine rebuild. Under the bonnet is the high-revving 2.3-litre ‘S14’ four-cylinder engine, which has been updated with an Evo 2 specification cylinder head and compatible intake manifold, to produce around 215bhp. The rear wheels are driven through the engaging five-speed manual transmission. The odometer displays 209,867km from new.

Manufactured in 1987, this E30-generation M3 was supplied new to Germany, and later exported to the UK, where it was re-registered on 15 May 1995. It has been cared for by two private keepers since being in the UK, and has been serviced by performance BMW specialist Munich Legends in particular. It is now offered for sale by the trade.

Today, this M3’s iconic bodywork presents well, with no visible damage to any of the panels and with even shut lines. The Lachssilber Metallic paintwork is understood to have been either partly or fully resprayed in the past and is in great shape, with the vendor noting one small micro-blister on the rear wheel arch, which is only visible upon close inspection.

The car’s badges and trim are also in good order, and while the matt black finish on the wiper arms has flaked away, this could be rectified at little expense. It rides on the correct set of 16-inch alloy wheels, which are in reasonable overall condition but feature some general marks, blemishes and kerb scratches and would benefit from refurbishment in due course, while their centre caps are also discoloured and show signs of delamination. Overall, this M3 still presents very smartly though. 

Moving inside, this M3’s seats are clad in their original and optional black leather, which wears its age well and remains in good condition. There is a small repair on the driver’s seat, and some general age-related marks and creases, but this is in keeping with the car’s use – and the rear seats present especially well. The door cards are in good order, and there is a light patina on the manual gear knob, with the thin-rimmed steering wheel remaining largely unmarked. 

Impressively, this M3’s original BMW-branded radio/cassette player is still fitted, and the seller reports that all of the car’s buttons, switches and electrical items work without fault. There are no warning lights displayed on the dashboard. 

This modern classic’s most recent routine maintenance was carried out at 180,343km by BMW specialist Munich Legends, where technicians fully inspected the car and carried out a general service including replacement of the engine oil, oil filter and brake fluid at a total cost of £1,154. 

Prior to this, the car’s engine was fully rebuilt and fitted with a later Evo 2 head, intake manifolds and throttle body as shown in the gallery – however, the original items will also be included in the sale. The car is also fitted with an OEM Sachs clutch kit from C3BMW and a Milltek exhaust system. 

Its latest MOT test was conducted on 4 May 2019 at 208,223km, resulting in a first-time pass, with deterioration of the nearside front lower anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover listed as a minor defect. All four wheels are fitted with Kumho Ecsta Supra tyres, which the seller describes as being in good condition.

This M3 will be accompanied by its original stamped service book, owner’s manual and other documents, as well as numerous service receipts that detail its maintenance history, as shown in the photo gallery. 

This E30-generation BMW M3 is a highly sought-after modern classic, presented in a timeless factory colour scheme and with an extensive service history. Benefitting from a high-quality respray and a recent engine rebuild, it will make a welcome addition to any collection of performance BMWs, and is reported to be ready to drive and enjoy immediately. 

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All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.