The BMW M3 has come a long way over its nearly four decades of existence, spawning six different generations and establishing itself as one of the most desirable and sought-after sports sedans of all time. While newer iterations constantly push the performance boundaries to new heights, it is the original E30-generation model that many still view as the greatest M3 of them all.
But not all E30 M3s were created equal. Over its five-year production span, BMW released several very special and highly limited production editions, including the Convertible, the Evolution 1, Evolution 2, Sport Evolution (or EVO3), Europa Meister 88, Johnny Cecotto, and Roberto Ravaglia. These variants command significantly higher prices than the standard coupe, and usually for good reason.
It’s little wonder then why this 1988 M3 Evolution II could sell for as much as $180,000 at an auction next month, roughly 2.5 times the going price of a 2024 model.
Read: Gunther Werks Teases Next Project, A Remastered Take On The E30 BMW M3
Photos Broad Arrow Auctions
BMW introduced the limited-run M3 Evolution II before the 1988 German Touring Car Championship. Just 501 examples were ever built for homologation purposes, each featuring a modified engine with a revised camshaft, pistons, and an increased compression ratio. Power for the 2.3-liter inline-four was increased from the non-catalytic M3’s 197 hp (200 PS / 147 kW) and 238 Nm (176 lb-ft) to 215 hp (218 PS / 160 kW) at 6,750 rpm and 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) at 4,750 rpm.
The special model was also equipped with various visual updates, including a new and more aggressive front splitter, a large rear spoiler with a trailing flap, and additional brake cooling ducts.
This example, painted in the rare and beautiful Macao Blue Metallic, is being auctioned off by Broad Arrow Auctions. Originally sold in France, it remained there until 2014 when it was imported into the United States. The owner promptly invested almost $37,000 in servicing and upgrading it with new springs, an Ireland Engineering front sway bar, revised suspension and braking systems, and an upgraded rear differential. More recently, it has been equipped with Bilstein dampers and has been well-maintained over the years.
The car has also been driven quite a lot and currently has 177,583 km (110,344 miles) on the clock. Despite this, the interior looks immaculate and the Silver Uberkaro Cloth upholstery has held up very well over time. It’s little wonder then why the auction house expects it to see for between $150,000 and $180,000.
If you’re interested, you can check out the auction over here.
