One to Buy: single owner 2900 mile 1995 BMW E36 3.0 M3
With a bigger bodyshell and more refined six cylinder engine than the outgoing E30 M3 (which had used a racey four cylinder motor), in many ways BMW’s E36-based expression of the M3 theme felt like a modern day version of the legendary early seventies E9 CSL.
At the time of E36 M3’s launch at the Paris Motor Show in October 1992, BMW was at the height of its powers with an elegantly styled, superbly built range of extremely well engineered models that set the standard in every sector.
Amid this plethora of excellence as arguably the best car BMW offered was the E36 M3 which could be ordered as a Coupe, Convertible or four-door Saloon. In total, a little under 29,000 first generation cars with the three-litre engine were constructed across all three body styles.
Set to go under the hammer at Bonhams’ Goodwood Festival of Speed sale on July 11th is a remarkable example of the E36 M3: chassis WBSBF92070EA85166.
Configured to arguably the most desirable specification for one of these cars (a Black Coupe with matching leather and Vader seats), chassis ‘85166’ was purchased new from Cheyne BMW in London during 1995. Shortly after acquisition, the car’s Italian owner relocated to Singapore for work but before departing he drove the M3 to his home town of Alassio where it was carefully stored until 2024.
Having since been transported back to London, chassis ‘85166’ heads to auction as an unrepeatable opportunity to acquire a one owner right-hand drive M3 Coupe with under 3000 miles on the clock.
Reprinted below is Bonhams’ description:
Registration no. N43 JGH
Chassis no. WBSBF92070EA85166
Under 2,900 miles
One recorded owner from new
'Time warp' condition
Delivered new in the UK
Carefully stored for some 30 years
Outstandingly original
This extraordinary 30-year-old BMW M3 was purchased new in 1995 from Cheyne BMW in London by an Italian professional and is a true collectors' gem.
Shortly after acquiring the car, the owner relocated to Singapore for work. Before departing, he drove the M3 to his hometown of Alassio in Italy where it was meticulously stored in a private garage and left untouched for nearly three decades.
In 2024, the M3 was carefully transported back to London, having remained unused and preserved since its arrival in Italy.
This M3 has been preserved in truly 'like new' condition according to our vendor, a remarkable feat for a car of its age. It comes complete with two original keys; an original owner's handbook; a factory-sealed first aid kit; and extensive supporting documentation, including letters and paperwork verifying its unique history.
This is an unmissable opportunity to own one of the rarest and surely best-preserved examples of the iconic BMW M3, boasting a provenance and condition that are nearly impossible to find.
