BMW M3 (E30)

During the 1980s, buyers who wanted performance didn't have much of a choice as there were ordinary cars whose power was below 100 hp and those exotics that could only be afforded by people with deep pockets. And then in 1986, the M3 appeared, which offered most of what the exotics had, but at a much more affordable price.

The M3 wasn't the first M car, but it was probably more significant. The first M car was called the M1 and went on sale in 1978. It was done in collaboration with Lamborghini and had a 210ci (3.5 L) I6 engine in the middle.

Next in line was the M6, a coupe based on the 6-Series that went on sale in 1983 and the M5, a sedan based on the 5-Series that was introduced as a 1985 model.

The first M3 was introduced in 1986 and was based on the E30 3-Series that went on sale four years earlier. The reason for the production of the M3 was homologation for Group A Touring Car Racing, but the competition certainly played a role, primarily the Mercedes W201 190E, which was introduced in 1983.

Photo: "BMW M3 E30" by nakhon100

Although the 3-Series and M3 are very similar in terms of design, the only thing the two cars shared was the hood and glass. The M3 was much more aerodynamic and had an excellent weight distribution. The biggest change was definitely under the hood.

Engine and Specs

The standard M3 was powered by a 140ci (2.3 L) in-line 4-cylinder engine that developed 192 hp, which was later increased to 215 hp. Later, the Sport Evolution model was introduced, which is powered by a 150ci (2.5L) engine with 238 hp. The Sport Evolution was very rare and only 600 copies were made.

Photo: "BMW M3 Sport Evolution E30" by nakhon100

For its time, the M3 was quite a fast model. Acceleration to 100 kph (62 mph) was 7.5 seconds, while the maximum speed was 235 kph (146 mph). The Sport Evolution was even faster and accelerated to 100 kph (62 mph) in 6.2 seconds and had a maximum speed of 250 kph (155 mph).

The M3 quickly proved to be a success and in the seven years of the first generation, around 18,000 units were sold. Many consider the E30 M3 to be perhaps the best racing car ever made.

BMW M3 (E30) in Motorsport

The M3 achieved more victories than any other BMW model, winning major competitions such as:

- DTM (titles in the 1987 and 1989 seasons),

- European Touring Car Championship (titles in the 1987 and 1988 seasons),

- World Touring Car Championship (title in 1987 season),

- British Touring Championship (titles in 1988 and 1991 seasons),

- Italian Superturismo Championship (titles in 1987, 1989, 1990 and 1991 seasons),

- Australian Touring Car Champions (title in 1987 season),

- Macau Guia Race (winner in 1987, 1988, 1991, 1992 and 1993),

- 24 Hours of Nurburgring (winner in 1989, 1990, 1991 and 1992),

- Spa 24 Hours (1987, 1988, 1990 and 1992).

Today's Price Range

The BMW M3 E30, also known as the "unicorn" among car enthusiasts, is a rare gem that has become a coveted collector's item in the automotive world. Its iconic design, precision engineering, and impressive performance have made it a timeless classic that never fails to turn heads.

But let's talk about the real question on everyone's minds: how much does it cost to own one of these beauties today? Well, brace yourself, because the price range for a BMW M3 E30 can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, and overall desirability.

Photo: "BMW M3 E30" by nakhon100

On the lower end of the spectrum, you might be able to find a project car that needs some TLC for around $20,000. Sure, it may have a few dents, scratches, and a laundry list of repairs needed, but hey, it's a small price to pay for the chance to own a piece of automotive history, right?

If you're looking for something a bit more polished and drivable, you're probably looking at shelling out closer to $40,000-$80,000. This price range will get you a well-maintained M3 E30 that's ready to hit the road and turn those heads (and maybe even win a few trophies at car shows).

Now, if you're a serious collector or enthusiast who wants the cream of the crop, be prepared to fork over upwards of $100,000-$250,000 for a pristine, low-mileage example with all the bells and whistles. Hey, you can't put a price on perfection, right?

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So, whether you're a seasoned collector looking to add another gem to your garage or a newbie dreaming of owning your very own BMW M3 E30, just remember this: there's a price for every budget, but the real value lies in the joy of owning and driving such an iconic piece of automotive history. Happy hunting!