One to Buy: 71,000km 2 owner 1995 BMW E36 M3 GT
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Although the 3.2-litre E36 M3 Evolution has the most powerful engine fitted to BMW Motorsport’s compact 90s offering, our favourite iteration of the second generation M3 was the limited run GT produced between 1994 and ‘95 using a tuned version of the original 3-litre straight six.
Importantly, the M3 GT wasn’t only about BMW offering a slightly more powerful M3 than the base model (296bhp as opposed to 286bhp in standard trim). Rather, it was an extensively uprated limited edition created to pave the way for a GTR racing version that would see use in the burgeoning scene for production-based Grand Touring cars.
Accordingly, the M3 GT featured a new aero kit, lightweight aluminium doors, a Motorsport front strut brace, shorter and stiffer springs and shocks and polished 17-inch diameter M Double Spoke alloy wheels with the optional 8.5-inch wide rims fitted at the rear.
The engine received a re-profiled 264° camshaft, re-mapped Bosch Motronic M3.3 engine management, a VANOS software upgrade, a shorter intake manifold and a baffled oil pan with dual pick-ups. There was also a shorter 3.23:1 final drive ratio.
Inside, BMW fitted each car with two-tone anthractie and green upholstery in a mix of leather and alcantara. Carbonfibre trim adorned the centre console, glovebox and door sills.
Only one exterior colour was offered, British Racing Green, and BMW planned a limited run of 350 units, all of which were left-hand drive and destined for the European market.
In total, BMW actually produced 356 examples of the M3 GT and, on October 18th, RM Sotheby’s will be putting one of these rarely seen cars under the hammer.
Completed in March 1995 and supplied by Auto Dinkel GmbH of Königsdorf, chassis ‘40098’s first owner retained it until August 2015, since which time the car has resided in the Best of M Collection. ‘40098’ displayed 71,426km at the time of cataloguing and is being sold complete with original book pack, tool kit and BMW Classic Birth Certificate confirming its matching numbers status.
