1990 BMW (E30) M3 SPORT EVOLUTION

Lovingly restored to a high standard, this BMW M3 Sport Evo (Evolution III) is a fine example of the coveted performance car. On opening the bonnet, you are met by its 2.5-litre four-cylinder ‘S14’ engine, which produces up to 238bhp and drives the rear wheels via a dog-leg five-speed manual transmission. The odometer displays 75,866 miles.

In total, only 600 examples of the highly developed Sport Evolution model were built between 1989 and early 1990. As well as their upgraded engines, these Group A homologation specials also featured a revised differential ratio and unique bodywork with more pronounced front wings, adjustable front and rear spoilers, brake cooling ducts in their front bumpers and 16-inch BBS alloy wheels. Also known as the ‘Evolution III’, this model was only available with red or black paintwork, and was also fitted with thinner window glass for reduced weight.

First registered on 28 September 1990, this Sport Evo has the rare distinction of being a UK-market car, and has been enjoyed by its current owner for the past five years.

This iconic BMW’s body and Jet Black paintwork present very well, with no evidence of prior accident damage, dents or corrosion. Having been fully resprayed in the early 2000s, the finish has a deep gloss, and is described by the vendor as being in very good overall condition, with only a few minor marks from road use including blemishes on the front splitter. The car rides on its original 16-inch two-tone BBS wheels, which are in great shape.

Moving into the cabin, this M3 still features its original Anthracite cloth upholstery, which covers the motorsport-inspired Recaro seats and wears its age well. The fabric covering their bolsters is sagging slightly, and the handle on the driver’s seat has come away. Elsewhere, the interior trim is in good order, with only some minor discolouration to the tops of the black vinyl-covered door cards and the suede-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob. While the car’s rev counter has an intermittent fault, all of the other buttons, switches and electrical items work as they should, and there are no warning lights displayed on the dashboard.

This modern classic’s most recent routine maintenance was carried out in January 2021 at 75,865 miles by BMW specialist Herring & Palmer, who fully rebuilt the top end of the engine due to a leaking cam chain cover gasket. This included replacement of all of the engine gaskets and seals, the timing chain, chain guide and tensioner, as well as the spark plugs, cam seals and head bolts. Prior to this, the car was serviced by Cooper BMW Croydon at approximately 64,000 and 70,000 miles.

Its latest MOT test was conducted in Northern Ireland on 31 July 2019 at 75,854 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no defects. All four wheels are shod in Nexen tyres, which were fitted in December 2020 and are in as-new condition. The car will be accompanied by its full tool kit and a substantial history file detailing past maintenance and MOT tests.

Representing the peak of the E30 3-series’ development, this BMW M3 Sport Evolution is presented in superb condition. Still fresh from a recent service, it is ready to take to the road, where it can show its owner precisely why it remains a true icon more than 30 years after its introduction.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

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.