Specifications
Highlights
• Unique Rest of World Only Model
• Stunning Macao Blue Paint with Dark Blue Cloth Top, Over Gray Leather
• One of Just 476 E30 M3 Convertibles Produced With EVO-Spec Motor
EAG Impressions
The E30 3-Series marked a significant evolution in BMW's compact sport sedan lineup. Its boxy yet elegant design would become emblematic of 1980s automotive styling. While European markets enjoyed a wide range of engine options, including the peppy 325i, U.S. models were often detuned to meet emissions requirements. The most notable disparity came with the M3. Introduced in Europe in 1986 as a homologation special for touring car racing, the E30 M3 didn't reach American shores until 1988, and even then with a slightly less powerful engine than its European counterpart.
Overview
There is no doubt that the E30 M3 is probably the most iconic product to ever come out of the BMW Motorsport division. With its high-revving 4-cylinder engine and beefy box-flare fenders, this was the world’s introduction to the M3 line and remains one of the most sought-after and collectible cars in BMW’s history. What many American enthusiasts don’t know, though, is that in Europe, BMW offered a limited run of E30 M3 convertibles for those who wanted a premium, racing-derived vehicle paired with open-top enjoyment.
This 1993 BMW E30 M3 Convertible was delivered new to Germany and lived in the UK from 1998 until coming stateside in 2023. Finished in beautiful Macao Blue, this M3 has been well cared for and shows just 32,887 miles at the time of writing. The power-folding convertible soft top is finished in dark blue, and the car sits on a set of 15-inch US Spec basketweave BBS wheels. During E30 M3 convertible production, just 786 units were produced, and of those 786, the final 476 were built with a higher, EVO-specification 215 horsepower engine like this example.
The interior is wrapped in gray leather, which covers the front Recaro-sourced sport seats and rear buckets. Slide into the driver’s seat and you’re met with an M-tech 2 three-spoke steering wheel, which frames a 160-mph speedometer and 8,000 RPM tach with a 7,000 RPM redline. The smaller Euro-style shift knob is affixed to this car, and subtle M-color touches can be seen on the shift pattern indicator and seat backs.
Powering this M3 is the famed S14 2.3-liter inline 4 that came from the factory in Evolution specification. This means an improved intake feeding the four individual throttle bodies, a higher compression ratio, and revised cams and pistons. The result is 215 horsepower at 6,750 rpm and 181 lb-ft of torque available from 4,750 rpm. Unlike the gearbox in the US-spec cars, this M3 benefits from the close-ratio 5-speed manual with a dog-leg first gear. When compared to the cars delivered originally to North America, this transmission makes it easier to stay in the powerband and is a perfect match for the revvy engine.
History
This M3 has over 20 pages of service records up to 26,000 miles under previous ownership and shows careful ownership. Under EAG’s care, the car received an inspection and subsequent services including: Fluid and Filter services, timing chain tensioner seal replacement, engine belt replacement, selector seal replacement along with transmission output seal, lower coolant hose replacement, radio and speaker repair, four-wheel alignment, and valve cover gasket replacement along with proper BMW spec valve adjustment. All service items needed for these models and completed so the new owner receives this vehicle with nothing left but to enjoy it!
Gallery
Documentation
