Each generation has its automotive icons and the first generation of the BMW M3 Coupe (E30) is one of those cars that rank high up in the list of special vehicles for most gearheads who are currently in their 30s, 40s and 50s.
Given that it was built from 1986 to 1992 and putting aside heavily abused models or cars that were involved in accidents, the biggest percentage of M3 E30s have clocked many miles on the road and in many cases on the track as well over the years, which makes finding a low-mileage example a difficult task today.
Yet once in a while you can find a well-kept model with relatively low miles on the odo such as this 1988 M3 E30 being auctioned off on eBay by Classic Car Gallery.
The car was bought brand new by its former owner in 1988 and has since been driven only a little over 26,000 miles (~42,000 kilometers). The M3 is said to be completely stock with little visible wear and comes with all the original manuals and even the sales sticker.
It is powered by BMW M’s famed at its time 2.5-liter four-cylinder naturally-aspirated inline-four with an output of 192-horsepower.
When we posted this article on Carscoop, the highest bid on eBay was US$29,900 (€23,800) but the reserve had not been met. On Classic Car Gallery’s website, the M3 is listed for sale at US$49,900 (€39,800).
Seller’s Description:
The Classic Car Gallery is proud to offer this stunning low mileage 1988 BMW E30 M3!!! Finished in ZINNOBERROT Red over Black leather, this ONE OWNER, first-year E30 chassis M3 has been driven just over 26,000 miles since new!!!
She is in collector grade condition, and is perhaps one of the finest on the market today. The owner is a fanatic, and the car has been babied since he bought her new at BMW OF DARIAN, CT. She IS COMPLETELY STOCK, has all original manuals, and HER ORIGINAL WINDOW STICKER!!!
The car sports the factory 2.3 liter 16 valve four cylinder 192 horsepower engine mated to the 5 speed manual transmission, and 15″ BMW alloy wheels with excellent NEW BRIDGESTONE POTENZA rubber all around. Other details about this car include: clear and clean title with current registration, M-stripe adorned sport steering wheel, leather sport seats, original stereo, electric sunroof, windows, and cruise control. This is a great opportunity to own, what may be the finest example of the iconic M3 that launched the BMW Motorsports division!!!
THE BODY AND TRIM; The body and trim of this car are in excellent overall condition. This car is rust-free, all of the ORIGINAL PANELS are present, look excellent, and are near show quality. All of the rubber trim is fresh and moist, and the badging is near perfect.
THE INTERIOR The interior of this car is in excellent condition. The dash is crack-free, the leather is buttery, and the drivers seat shows only the mildest wear on the seat bolster. All gauges and controls work as they should, and the A/C blow cold. The interior panels, headliner, rubber seals, controls and carpets are near showroom fresh.
THE ENGINE AND DRIVETRAIN; The engine compartment of this car looks new. She has always been fanatically maintained. This car has no mechanical issues. THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE
The 1988 BMW E30 M3 BMW is an enthusiasts car for a reason. THEY ARE AN ABOSOLUTE BLAST TO DRIVE!!! The car starts, runs and drives beautifully with nice acceleration, very good braking, EXCELLENT suspension with superb handling and excellent tracking. This 26,000 mile example is arguably the finest E30 M3 on the market today.
PHOTO GALLERY
