Highlights

Sensational colour combination of Boston Metallic Green over a light grey interior
17 inch ‘Style 24’ alloy wheels shod in Continental tyres with excellent tread
Well optioned car with accompanying original factory-supplied hardtop
Benefiting from a recent service whilst under current ownership

The Appeal

Arriving in 1996, the M3 Evolution represented a further development and refinement of BMW’s already fabulous E36 M3 formula. Utilising knowledge gained from BMW Motorsport’s joint development work with Maclaren on the F1, the M3 Evolution boasted a raft of impressive mechanical upgrades over its earlier iteration.

Key upgrades included an increase in engine capacity to 3.2 litres, meaning the M3 could now deliver an impressive 321 BHP and propel itself from 0 to 60 in just over 5 seconds. Delivering this increased clout to the rear wheels was a new 6-speed Getrag manual box which further improved the car’s performance and tractability. Improvements to handling and dynamics came courtesy of stiffer springs and shocks, accompanied by a quicker steering rack.

Presented in the stunning and relatively rare shade of Boston Metallic Green, this particular example benefits from being both a low mileage (71,763 miles) and lower ownership (2 former keepers) example. Fitted with the desirable 6-speed manual gearbox and provided with its original factory hardtop, this BMW M3 Evolution offers its next custodian the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a classic example of the M3 breed.

The History and Paperwork

V5C present
2 former keepers, first being a BMW dealership and the second owner keeping the car until 2022
MOT valid until 14/04/2024
Benefiting from a recent service under current ownership in June 2023
Stamped service book demonstrating partial BMW service history
Assortment of invoices relating to previous service work

The Interior

Sophisticated light grey leather over dark grey carpets
Well specified example with heated front seats and trip computer
All electrical equipment reported to be functioning as expected, apart from the Kenwood stereo which is currently disconnected

Getting behind the wheel of this M3 Evolution leaves no doubt in the mind that this is first and foremost a driver’s car. With a bank of clear M-sport gauges, the simple uncluttered steering wheel and the 6-speed gear leaver falling easily to hand, it’s clear that the focus here is driving pleasure.

Looking at the interior of this car it’s apparent that the leather seats would benefit from some attention, with the driver’s seat in particular demonstrating some bolster damage and stitch splitting in the seat squab. The rest of the seats do present in a much better condition however, and with some attention, we’re sure the interior of this M3 could be significantly improved should the new owner wish.

Optioned with heated front seats and also featuring electric windows and a powered soft top hood (reported by the owner to be functioning), the M3 falls squarely into the modern classic category and is able to provide its occupants with a level of comfort which would make regular use a joy.

The owner reports that all equipment and gauges are functioning as one would expect, apart from the wonderfully 90’s Kenwood tape deck which was disconnected to allow use of a more modern system. We have been advised that should it be desired, reconnecting this unit is a quick and straightforward process.

The Exterior

Stunning Boston Green metallic paint with optional factory hardtop
17 inch ‘Style 24’ alloy wheels shod in Continental tyres with excellent tread
Classic uncluttered E36 lines with purposeful lowered M3 stance
Powered soft-top hood reported to be operational

The owner tells us that he purchased this M3 last year from its only previous owner - the cars first registered keeper being the original supplying BMW dealership. During its previous ownership, we believe that the car benefited from being garaged, and looking at the exterior condition of the car today this would seem to be the case.

With the stunning combination of its Boston Green metallic paint and highly polished 17-inch alloys, this M3 makes quite the impression, and the factory lowered ride height gives the car a purposeful stance with clear intent.

Looking over the car it presents generally well, but we can see there are a few areas which would benefit from some attention. Apart from a few small scuffs on the bumpers and some age-related marks, the nearside front wing has a small dent over the wheel arch and another over the side indicator. Aside from this however the bodywork generally presents well, in particular the rear wheel arches, a known trouble spot for this model.

The Mechanics

3.2-litre straight six developing 321 BHP
6-speed Getrag manual gearbox sending drive to the rear wheels
Benefiting from a recent service under current ownership
Original toolkit with full-sized spare wheel and jack

Whilst under current ownership this M3 has benefited from a recent service, which the owner tells us included a fresh oil change and new filters, replacement drivebelt and various seals with spark plugs.

Now reported to be in rude health, we’re told that the M3 starts keenly and runs very well indeed without any undue smoke or knocks or rattles. Pulling strongly under acceleration and changing cleanly through its gears, this car offers up the pure M3 driving experience that the BMW Motorsport engineers always intended.

We have also been advised by the owner that during its recent MOT, an inspection of the underside of the M3 demonstrated no significant structural or corrosion concerns.

Summary

An appreciating classic of the BMW Motorsport range, the E36 M3 Evolution combines stunning understated good looks with genuinely impressive performance.

This particular example, offered in convertible form and in a stunning colour combination, is now ready and willing to offer its unique blend of motoring thrills to its next custodian.

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