Here is an example of a clean 1988 BMW E30 M3. Put together in December 1987, this is one of approximately 5300 first generation M3s to roll off the German assembly line to arrive in the United States.

Here's a quick history lesson on why the E30 M3 was developed and put into production. 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 recognized the great interest in racing and the positive effects of racing on auto sales. The United States did not receive the E30 M3 until 1987.

E30 M3 in front of an EVO E30 M3
In order to compete in the European Touring Car 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 fenders.

Unlike other E30 models, the E30 M3 is easily distinguished by its oversized wheel wheels. These larger wheel wells were designed to handle 10" wide racing rims. Another feature was a slightly larger rear window to improve aerodynamics.

Wasteiner EVO E30 M3
The power plant is high-performance 4-cylinder, a direct descendent of the M10 F-1 powerplant. The engine has a forged crank, a four valve head and strengthened internals, with 2.3 liters and 195 hp with a catalytic converter and 200 hp without.

BMW actually produced 13 different versions of the E30 M3. Some of the models were in very limited production, and most were European models that never made it to the United States.