Japanese-Market 1988 BMW M3
Presentation
Originally designed to satisfy Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) and Group A Touring homologation rules, the first-generation BMW M3 features iconic aerodynamic bodywork and a 2.3-liter S14 inline-four engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. Factory-specified in Diamond Black Metallic, this 1988 example was originally sold in Japan and later purchased by a German owner who oversaw extensive refurbishment including a refinish. It features rare Anthracite Uberkaro cloth upholstery, an electric sunroof, air conditioning, and a European-spec close-ratio transmission. Acquired by the seller in May 2022, this E30 M3 is now being offered for auction out of Canada with approximately 107k kilometers (66k miles) on the odometer. Click here to view the previous PCARMARKET listing.
Sharing only its hood and roof panels with the standard E30 3-Series, the M3 features unique bodywork including a front spoiler, rear valence, fender flares, side skirts, a lightweight glass-reinforced plastic trunk lid, and a fixed rear wing. This example was factory finished in Diamond Black Metallic (181) and was refinished under previous ownership approximately 600 miles or 1k kilometers ago. Equipment includes quad headlamps, fog lights, an electric sunroof, power mirrors, dual exhaust tips, and 15” basketweave wheels dressed in Vredestein Sprint+ 205/55 tires from 2019. The seller indicates the car was repainted at 105,800 kilometers, and the finish remains impeccable. Detailed images are provided in the gallery along with paint meter readings below:
The cabin features Anthracite Uberkaro cloth upholstery with patterned seat centers. Accessories include a three-spoke M Tech I steering wheel, an M Tech I leather shift knob, M-specific instrumentation, manually adjustable front sport seats, power windows and door locks, air conditioning, an onboard computer, and an aftermarket Sony cassette stereo. The seller describes the interior as being in very good overall condition. All gauges and accessories are said to be fully functional.
Featuring dual overhead camshafts and individual throttle bodies, the naturally aspirated 2.3-liter S14 inline-four engine was factory-rated at 195 HP. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a Getrag 5-speed manual dogleg transmission with close-ratio gears and a limited-slip differential. The seller indicates extensive refurbishment was carried out by the previous owner, and there are currently no outstanding maintenance. Additionally, this example is said to have been enthusiast-owned and meticulously maintained, while the next engine oil & filter service is due in August 2026.
This sale will include owner’s manuals, a toolkit, a spare tire, and a Canadian registration.
The seller would like you to know: “This M3 has always been enthusiast-owned and carefully maintained. It retains its original engine and dogleg transmission, presents in excellent overall condition, and is ready to be enjoyed by its next owner."
The seller would like you to know: “This M3 has always been enthusiast-owned and carefully maintained. It retains its original engine and dogleg transmission, presents in excellent overall condition, and is ready to be enjoyed by its next owner."
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