In the early 1990’s, the DTM was reaching new peaks of popularity and competition all thanks to a selection of models that divided the motorsport world. One of which was the BMW E30 M3 which proved quite successful both in the German championship and across other touring car series.
In 1992, French racer, Jean Pierre Malcher received his example with which he planned on competing in the French Touring Car Championship but due to regulation changes from Groupe A to Super Tourers, this model was no longer eligible. Following several years in storage, it spent the next decade or so racing in the French hill climb championship where it claimed the 2000 title.
Today, it emerges from a garage having sat motionless for a decade and is ready to once again hit racing circuits around Europe. With a full FFSA homologation and in fantastic visual condition, it is seemingly ready to compete. Whilst it did receive an extensive engine and transmission overhaul before being stored, it will need looking over before running. CarandClassic_croq_02082023_5.jpg2.48 MB
History and Paperwork
Manufactured in 1992
Originally built for Jean Pierre Malcher
French Touring Car regulation changes means the famous driver never ran the car
Garaged for several years
Purchased by a Mr B in 1998 at Retro Mobile, Paris
Converted to Groupe A hill climb regulations
Won the 2000 French hill climb championship
Purchased by a Mr V in 2002
With its current owner since 2004
Returned to DTM specification at one point in time
Inside this early-1990’s DTM racer is a fairly standard E30 DTM cockpit. Compared to the road-going model, the interior is obviously very bare, with most upholstery and trim being stripped out. Indeed, just the original dashboard and door cards remain.
As a homologated race car, it features a full roll cage to DTM specification as well as a Recaro bucket seat and racing harness. An Alcantara steering wheel sits in front of the custom instrument cluster.
Several controls and displays are available to the driver during competitive driving including ABS adjustments, tyre temperature sensors and engine fluid dials. Each of these feature French language stickers to help understand everything going on.
Thanks to the stripped-out nature of the interior, one has a good sight of the floor. It’s fair to say the chassis appears to be clean and free of major damage of corrosion. There are some signs of discoloration in places, but certainly nothing to worry about.CarandClassic_croq_02082023_34.jpg2.45 MB
The Exterior
Iconic E30 M3 body style
Excellent visual condition
BMW M colours livery looks great
The E30 M3 is certainly one of the most iconic designs to emerge from the brand’s factory and in racing DTM form, the shape is only accentuated. Indeed, this car is finished in a simple yet effective livery hinting at the BMW M colours.
Having spent the past decade or so in storage, the model presents in brilliant visual condition. Indeed, the body work all looks to be straight with minimal damage to be seen. Underneath, the only evident signs of use are the scorch marks surrounding the side-exit DTM-specification exhaust.
The car does currently sit on a set of wheels showing some scuff marks. But it also comes with a further two full sets of wheels. Indeed, a collection of spare parts is reportedly included with the car.CarandClassic_croq_02082023_16.jpg2.31 MB
The Mechanics
2.5-litre inline-four, 300hp
Original DTM specification engine
Full engine and gearbox overhaul prior to garaging
Under the bonnet sits the 1992 BMW E30 M3 DTM’s 2.5-litre inline-four. From the factory, BMW boasted a 300hp figure, which is certainly plenty to zip round any circuit. Despite having been converted to Groupe A specification in the past with sealed injectors, it currently presents in full DTM condition with its complete number of eight injectors. That is paired with the side-exit exhaust from the day which should make for a thrilling sound both in the car and track-side.
Both the engine and gearbox were fully overhauled around ten years ago. The work also came with replaced brake and clutch master cylinders meaning the car is surely in fantastic condition throughout. Indeed, the engine reportedly has run for just two hours since the work.
However, given the time it has spent in storage, not running, the owner does recommend the car gets a full check over and refurb. Though this is surely no different to any other historic racing car.CarandClassic_croq_02082023_63.jpg2.77 MB
Summary
Originally built for famous French driver, Jean Pierre Malcher, this 1992 BMW E30 M3 DTM never ran in its planned French Touring Car Championship following the introduction of Super Tourer regulations. Since then, it has spent time with various owners competing in hill climb events with applaudable success, claiming the 2000 French championship.
Well cared for throughout its life, it comes with several spare wheels and a new engine overhaul. Having been garaged for ten years without running, the current owner does advise one puts the car through a full refurb.
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