- This E30-generation BMW M3 is an iconic 1980's performance hero
- Powered by a 2.3-litre naturally aspirated ‘S14’ inline-four, delivering around 197bhp to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission
- This example was originally delivered to Spain in December 1987, before being imported to the UK and registered with the DVLA in March 2022
- Professionally resprayed in its original Diamond Black Metallic by Pennings in 2024, and treated to a £13,000 mechanical overhaul by Classic Bahnstormers (2022–2023), making this a true turn-key example
Presented here on SB is a 1987 BMW E30 M3, a motorsport-bred performance icon and one of the most celebrated homologation specials of the 1980s. Developed by BMW’s legendary M Division, the original M3 set the benchmark for driver-focused handling, high-revving dynamics, and everyday usability - qualities that continue to define the M brand today.
The E30 M3 featured extensive revisions over the standard 3 Series, including widened box-arched bodywork, a revised suspension setup, upgraded brakes, and a close-ratio 5-speed manual gearbox. Under the bonnet lies the high-revving 2.3-litre S14 inline-four, producing around 197bhp and delivering its power to the rear wheels for an analogue driving experience that is becoming increasingly sought after in the modern, digital, era.
This example was originally delivered to Spain in December 1987, before being imported to the UK and registered with the DVLA in March 2022. It is finished in Diamond Black Metallic and underwent a full body respray in 2024, professionally carried out by Pennings in Milton Keynes. Mechanically, the car has benefitted from a comprehensive overhaul by Classic Bahnstormers in Cirencester, completed between November 2022 and March 2023 and totalling nearly £13,000, making this a turn-key example!
With values of the E30 M3 continuing to rise and fewer well-preserved examples remaining, this car represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic performance cars of the 20th century - tastefully refreshed, mechanically sorted and ready to go. As always, the seller is available to answer any questions via the Comments section below. Buyers should bid with complete confidence.
This 1987 BMW E30 M3 is a celebrated 1980s homologation special, renowned for its iconic looks and high-revving 2.3-litre S14 engine. Boasting a recent full respray in its original Diamond Black Metallic and a comprehensive mechanical overhaul, this is a well-preserved, turn-key example. With rising values and scarce condition, this M3 offers a rare chance to own an iconic performance classic.
Finally, all cars on Shooting Brake are run through an online HPI check. This particular vehicle throws up no insurance claims for damage or theft and has no outstanding finance owing. Nonetheless, we strongly encourage all bidders to undertake their own due diligence prior to placing any bid. It is entirely reasonable for any classic or enthusiast vehicle to have undergone cosmetic repairs that could otherwise go undetected from the provided photos or by any in-person inspection. Unless the seller explicitly states otherwise, assume that any vehicle or item listed may have undergone bodywork or paintwork at some point. Additionally, photographs may not accurately represent the vehicle’s true overall condition. It is the bidder’s responsibility to verify the condition, and any past repairs - including bodywork or paintwork - before placing a bid or making a purchase. If you have any questions or queries, please use the Comments section to firstly ask the Seller directly before placing any bids. Shooting Brake tries to portray the item listed as accurately as possible through detailed questions asked to the seller but would like to remind users that all vehicles are sold as seen and, as per all goods purchased at auction, there is a No Return policy. Please see our Terms and Conditions for more details.