1988 BMW M3 Base

Make

BMW

Model

M3 Base

Year

1988

Listed price

$127,794

Location

Paramus, New Jersey

Transmission

Manual

Mileage

516 miles

The E30 M3 is a legend born from the crucible of motorsport. Conceived as BMW's answer to the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) homologation rules, it was never just an E30 3-Series with a bigger engine. Instead, BMW Motorsport engineers meticulously re-engineered nearly every panel, stiffened the chassis, and fitted a bespoke 2.3-liter S14 inline-four derived from the M1 and M635CSi engines. This commitment to performance created a road car with an unparalleled racing pedigree, dominating touring car championships worldwide. With approximately 5,300 examples making their way to North America between 1987 and 1990, the E30 M3 cemented its place as a quintessential driver's car, revered for its telepathic handling, high-revving engine, and unmistakable box flares. This 1988 BMW M3 represents an extraordinary opportunity to acquire an icon that has been elevated to concourse-level perfection. Showing a mere 516 miles since its comprehensive rejuvenation, this M3 was the subject of a no-expense-spared, ground-up restoration performed entirely in-house by the renowned Gaswerks Garage. Starting with a solid chassis originally finished in Lachs Silver, every component was removed, refinished, rebuilt, or replaced in a meticulous frame-off, nut-and-bolt process. The result is a factory-correct presentation, powered by its original 2.3L S14 I4 engine paired with a precise manual transmission. This is a rare chance to own an E30 M3 that transcends mere preservation, offering a like-new experience of a true automotive legend.