Specifications
Highlights
• Highly desired Alpine/Cardinal combination
• KW Suspension
• SuperSprint mid-section, and Eisenmann rear muffler
EAG Impressions
The E30 3-Series marked a significant evolution in BMW's compact sport sedan lineup. Its boxy yet elegant design would become emblematic of 1980s automotive styling. While European markets enjoyed a wide range of engine options, including the peppy 325i, U.S. models were often detuned to meet emissions requirements. The most notable disparity came with the M3. Introduced in Europe in 1986 as a homologation special for touring car racing, the E30 M3 didn't reach American shores until 1988, and even then with a slightly less powerful engine than its European counterpart.
Overview
This 1988 BMW E30 M3 is an excellent example of how you can own a car that is well preserved but still enjoy doing some modifications without detracting from the value. Finished in Alpine White over Cardinal Red leather, this car shows just 59,078 miles, and you can tell has been exceptionally cared for from new. The E30 M3 is such a classic design with its exaggerated box flare fenders and tall rear decklid spoiler, many times when people start modifying these cars, they mess them up more than improving them. But this car, fitted with KW Coilovers at all four corners, allows the ride height to be dialed in just so, giving it a perfect stance.
The interior is perhaps the most remarkable part of this car - the deep Cardinal Red leather covering the front and rear seats shows hardly any wear whatsoever. The carpet is finished to match and although so frequently these rich colors fade over time, there is little if any signs of that on this car. A 3-spoke MTech I steering wheel sits in front of the driver, and a European-style round-top shift knob has been fitted for a more positive shift feel.
Powering the E30 M3 is a 2.3-liter inline-4 known as the S14 - with dual overhead cams and ITBs, this engine was developed for homologation in racing and is known to love high revs. Power for a US-Spec car is 192 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, which is best extracted on your way to the 7,250 rpm redline. This engine is backed by a 5-speed Getrag gearbox that offers slick shifting and, as a US car, no dog-leg first gear to get caught out with in town. The only mechanical upgrade to note on this E30 is an exhaust upgrade with a SuperSprint mid-section and Eisenmann rear muffler which help the S14 sing a bit more, but is far from annoying while cruising.
It can’t be overstated how significant the E30 M3 is in the history of BMW. There was no car to better align them with the world of motorsport and its enduring legacy meant that it was one of the first BMWs to see widespread collector appeal. This is a great example in a fantastic color combination that will look perfect in any garage.
History
This special E30 M3 comes to us out of IND’s Personal Collection. It started its life as a Florida vehicle with its original owner until 2016 when it moved to Illinois and eventually found its way into the IND Collection. As you would expect this M3 was given continuous care and we’re thrilled to now see it here at the EAG facility. We’ll be performing our comprehensive inspection and services to ensure this example is turn-key and ready to be enjoyed for the next enthusiast.
The condition of this example is incredible and shows off the highly desired Alpine/Cardinal combination properly. Mechanically it received enthusiast level upgrades in the form of KW Suspension, SuperSprint mid-section, and Eisenmann rear muffler. This exhaust system is mild when driving around town but allows the S14 to sing its tune when driving spiritedly. It’s the perfect pairing to the M3 ethos that began in 1988 for the US.
Gallery
Documentation
