BMW M3 (E36) Coupe, 1994

Full Description

MODEL HISTORY
After the success of the E30 M3, BMW began developing an all new M3 based on the E36 platform. Unlike the E30 which was primarily designed for competition use, the E36 was designed from the outset as a GT road car. It was also one of the first cars BMW built primarily using computer software. In February of 1992 the E36 M3 made its debut at the Paris Motor Show and by November that year it was delivered to the dealers showrooms.

The E36 was the first M3 to utilize the S50 3 litre inline-6 engine, which produced 282 bhp. Although originally only available as a coupe, BMW went on to produce the M3 as convertible and a saloon as well as 6 further special edition models.

The M3 shared its larger braking system and six-speed manual transmission with the BMW M5.

The E36 M3 was widely considered to be one of the finest handling cars of the 1990s by the motoring press at the time. Sadly due to regulation changes and discrepancies in the German Touring Car Championship (DTM) the E36 M3 never got to fulfil its potential as a successful touring car due to regulation changes. Instead BMW changed its motorsport strategy and entered the Warsteiner ADAC GT Cup instead. Setup as the BMW M3 GTR, in striking design of a starting flag and with Johnny Cecotto and Kris Nissen at the wheel the car won the championship. This was unfortunately the end of the motorsport chapter for this M3 GTR as changes in the regulations meant that the potent 3 Series had no realistic chances of victory any more.

Known for its superb handling and balance the M3 has become a very popular choice amongst track-day racers and enthusiasts.

EQUIPMENT
Electric sunroof, Alpine cd player, BMW tool kit (complete), Electric mirrors, Spare alloy wheel, Electric windows, Central locking, Power steering, Fully adjustable seats, Anti-lock brakes, rear window blind, Drivers airbag, Central armrest, Spare key.

EXTERIOR
The Dakar yellow paintwork is a wonderfully bold yet pastel type colour that compliments the E36 M3 perfectly. After two days in our detailing department the M3 is boasting a spectacular deep shine. The paintwork is in first class order with no noticeable stone chips to be found to the front of the car and remains free from any unsightly dings or dents to any of the panels.

Smaller details such as the BMW badges, black shadow line trim and the lights all remain in excellent condition, the lights are free from any cracks or moisture and the badges show no wear whatsoever. Details like these, as well as the obvious care and attention that has been lavished on this car throughout its life, all add up to making this a truly exceptional example.

INTERIOR
Opening the door on the M3 you are presented with a smart, black leather interior. The sports seats bulge with supportive bolsters and wear the subtle M tri-colour logo, all of the leather remains in excellent condition with no damage or wear, feeling textured and soft. Commonly worn areas such as the steering wheel, gearbox and handbrake also show little signs of use.

The interior plastics and surfaces still look and feel new, completely free from any fading or damage. All of the switch gear still feels solid to operate and the electrics are working exactly as they should.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The E36 was the first M3 to utilize the 3 litre, inline-6 S50 engine. Having had its last inspection 1 service carried out just over 2,000 miles ago, the 6 pot engine is in fine mechanical order. At the first turn of the key the engine fires into life, idling correctly up to temperature with a smooth engine note.

The 5 speed manual gearbox feels tight and precise, providing smooth gear changes and commanding the engines 282 hp perfectly.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
This M3 is equipped with the optional forged M double-spoke alloys, which are a lighter alternative to the standard E36 M3 wheels. Fitted in a staggered configuration, with 7.5×17″ wheels on the front and 8.5×17″ wheels on the rear. All of the wheels are in pristine condition having recently been refurbished, with no kerb marks or lacquer peel to be found.

The ventilated disc brakes and pads feel strong, pulling the car to a standstill smoothly. The front discs have recently been replaced by BMW Chiswick as well as a fluid change.

HISTORY FILE
The M3 was first registered on the 1st of January 1994. It has had 4 former keepers in its life, the previous having owned it for 17 years.

In the history file there are invoices for service work, repairs and replacement parts throughout the years, as well as every MOT certificate kept to help verify the cars low mileage. The BMW document holder is also still present, containing all the owner’s manuals and handbooks.

The original service booklet can be found with a total of 15 stamps, early work was undertaken by BMW main dealers Halliwell Jones and Williams Manchester until 2001. Thereafter the car was mainly looked after by the same independent garage, the last service was an inspection 2 at 60,000 miles by Listers BMW. Recent work carried out in the last 100 miles includes new drivers door card, wheels powder coated and refurbed and a new set of the correct 23540ZR17 Continental Sport Contact 3’s all round, new BMW wheel nuts, new front splitter, rear bumper re-sprayed, new M side mouldings all round the car. Rocker cover powder coated. Original equipment rear wing also still with car. Getting to be nearly a perfect condition E36