Lot 270: 1989 BMW M3 E30 Saloon

First produced in 1986, the 3 Series E30 M3 was the product of a factory effort to participate in German Touring Car racing. The primary opponent was the Mercedes 190 class. Both companies recognised the great interest in racing and the positive effects of racing on car sales. In order to compete in the Championships, BMW had to produce a minimum of 500 units a year; the race car had to have the same basic engine, intake, and aerodynamics as the production model. The suspension had to fit to stock pick up points and while larger wheels were allowed, they had to fit within the stock bumper surround. Unlike other E30 models, the E30 M3 is easily distinguished by its oversized wheels. These were designed to handle 10" wide racing rims. The power plant is high-performance 4-cylinder, a direct descendent of the M10 F-1 powerplant with forged crank, four valve head and strengthened internals, 2.3 litres and 200 bhp without catalytic converter. The M-series is an uprated version of the conventional 3 series and this example is one up from that. A rare and special beast indeed. The example on show has documentation to show that this car was the BMW UK press vehicle, important then to be well equipped. Described as being in good condition in all respects and coming complete with a full years MoT and UK registration documents.