A performance icon steeped in motorsport history, the first-ever BMW M3 remains the most highly prized. Here’s our guide to owning one
Sponsored editorial in association with Beverly Hills Car Club
Words: James Howe, Jeff Ruggles
Taking the second-generation E30 3 Series as a base, the BMW M3 was developed in-house by BMW Motorsport with a steely focus on winning races.
The range-topping road car was the 325i but its heavy six-cylinder was ditched in favour of a lighter four-pot, with BMW taking the old iron-blocked M10 engine from the 2002 era as the basis. The resulting S14 engine was rated at 200bhp in road trim but was run at closer to 300bhp for racing. Revised suspension arms and bushes dramatically improved the handling, and with box-arched bodywork it looked the part, too.
The M3 was presented to the public at the 1985 Frankfurt Motor Show, and production began in March 1986. Although 5000 had to be built to satisfy homologation rules, nearly 18,000 were produced in all, and following year-to-year rule changes, new specials were sold in limited volumes. These included the Evo 1, Evo 2, and Sport Evolution, with various upgrades made along the way.
The car was incredibly successful, particularly on the European stage, but also in the BTCC. Frank Sytner took the 1988 title with his Prodrive car in its second year out. The M3 also took the 1991 title in de-stoked 2-litre form, with Will Hoy at the wheel.
Engine, transmission and mechanicals
The famous S14 four-cylinder engine was a slick design for the 1980s, with dual overhead cams and a heady 7,250rpm redline. A variety of power outputs were offered over the car’s six-year production run, with displacement growing from the original 2.3 litres to 2.5 in the final Sport Evolution model.
Whichever iteration of the engine you end up with, expect some small oil leaks and prioritise regular services; its a famously robust unit but won’t appreciate being neglected. Differential whine off-throttle at higher speeds is a bad sign, as is a heavy clutch – be ready for big bills if your car starts to exhibit these signs.
The cam chain should be replaced at 100,000 miles, while semi-regular valve adjustments every 10,000 miles or so are crucial for smooth running as the S14 does without more modern hydraulic tappets.
Suspension ball joint and bushing wear is common but these are relatively easy jobs. Be sure to periodically check the operation of the famously weak handbrake too.
Bodywork and interior
Rust is the main enemy, which should come as no surprise given the E30 M3’s age. The car was well-made compared to its contemporary rivals and many have been considerably pampered in recent years, but problems can still rear their head. Sills, front and rear apron/valance, lower front wings (where they meet the sill) and the sunroof (if fitted) can call cause issues, so keep an eye out.
Worn trim in any E30-generation 3 Series is expensive to replace, particularly the dashboard which can crack with age. Don’t expect to be able to get new parts – it’s best to seek the help of owners’ groups and clubs for good used items instead.
Finding a good example
The original BMW M3 has become a highly prized classic in recent years as the market has latched onto its combination of heritage, good looks and unique driving experience. The result is high values, especially for the special Evolution models.
It’s not uncommon for prospective buyers of collectible cars to search internationally for the perfect example, and especially sensible given that all M3s were sold in left-hand drive anyway. At time of writing, Beverly Hills Car Club has a US-spec example in stock with great history for $69,950, which puts it at the lower end of the European M3 market.
It’s worth noting that US-spec cars featured some specification changes versus their European counterparts, including wider spread gear ratios and a standard shift pattern rather than a dogleg layout.
Sponsored by Beverly Hills Car Club
The automobiles sold at Beverly Hills Car Club combine all the elements of its exclusive address in Los Angeles: cars for sale that are the very last word in tasteful elegance, chic and impressive sophistication, with careful attention given to each vehicle and each client. Both national and international customers are catered for, with a huge stock of classics to choose from.
For more information and to view the Beverly Hills Car Club stock, visit www.beverlyhillscarclub.com
