Highlights

Completely original BMW M3 ‘Evolution’ coupé
Estoril Blue exterior with 17-inch ‘Sunflower’ alloy wheels
Fastidiously maintained, with full service history
3.2-litre straight-six matched to 6-speed manual gearbox
MOT valid until 7 October 2027

The Appeal

The E36 generation of M3 was the first to use a six-cylinder engine, and introduced higher levels of refinement to complement its outstanding performance and handling. From late 1995, an upgraded ‘Evolution’ version was introduced, bringing a 3.2-litre version of the renowned S50 engine (larger by 200cc) that saw power increase to 321hp. A six-speed gearbox maximised performance and driver involvement, while clear indicator lenses refreshed the exterior.

This is an outstanding early example of the ‘Evolution’ coupé, and so features the desirable aluminium doors. First registered in 1996, it has been fastidiously maintained – by franchised BMW dealers until 37,000 miles, and by BMW authorised or independent specialists thereafter. The seller has owned this car twice, once between 2010 and 2015, and again from 2019 until now. They state that it has always been kept in a garage.

The car is described as being entirely original, and never resprayed. The seller reports that the underside has been reinstated to factory specification where the underseal was failing.

Outside, the Estoril Blue paintwork and wheels retain their lustre and no dents are apparent. Inside, the alcantara interior wears its age exceptionally well, with little discernible wear to contact points such as the gear knob, steering wheel or suede seat bolsters.

The seller reports that the car is in good mechanical order, and that “proper heat cycles have always been applied during use”. They say the car “feels tight, composed and sounds magnificent above 4500rpm. The steering feels very direct and the car always receives compliments and positive feedback out on the road”.

Such as original and exceptionally well cared-for E36 M3 is hard to find. This is an appreciating and highly usable classic that will bring great pleasure to whoever is fortunate enough to next own it.

Key Information

Mileage: 55,230 miles (indicated)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT valid until 7 October 2027
Technical specs: 3,201cc 321hp in-line 6-cylinder petrol, 6-speed manual
Paperwork: V5C, invoices dated back to 2003, original owner’s handbooks and service book (stamped to 2015), original M3 sales brochure, previous MOT certificates

Most recent work:

04/25 – £280.67 – Southern Motor Developments (Invoice #IO19816)

Curing of misfire, re-sealing of VANOS solenoids, new spark plugs

12/24 – £2,686.44 – Restore a Ford (Invoice #INV-0093)

Re-sealing of vulnerable underside body areas

Service history as detailed in stamped service book:

04/96 (Delivery Inspection)
05/96 – 1,181 miles (M3 running-in service)
06/97 – 7,465 miles (oil)
04/99 – 16,848 miles
01/01 – 22,955 miles (oil)
04/03 – 31,376 miles
08/07 – 37,670 miles
09/10 – 41,336 miles (oil)
04/15 – 51,342 miles (oil)

The Detail

Low mileage 3.2-litre M3 coupé
Original, unmodified exterior and interior
Metallic Estoril Blue paint, alcantara interior
Alcantara cloth seats with M pattern and suede outers
Electric sliding sunroof
Full service history
Meticulously cared for
Original tool kit in boot
17-inch M Double Spoke II ‘Sunflower’ alloy wheels
BMW service book is stamped up until 51,342 miles, will all but one stamp (from a BMW specialist) being from BMW or BMW Authorised workshops
Running-In service was conducted at 1,181 miles
All supporting paperwork from 37,000 miles onwards included in an A4 ring binder
The seller reports some small stone chips on the front valance and two very small chips in the windscreen
The seller also notes that a “very small” paint defect has always existed in the strip between the shut boot and the top of the rear bumper
Some rubber seals “show their age”
The seller reports some sag in the door cards and some very minor sag in the headlining
MOT valid until 7 October 2027
3 keys plus plastic emergency key
Very rare and early EVO model with aluminium doors

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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