Chassis # WBSBG91060EW39311
Desirable Left-Hand Drive Evolution Variant
Finished In Stunning Estoril Blue Metallic Over Extended Black Buffalo Leather Interior
A Highly Original Example Showing Just Under 30,000km From New
Immaculately Maintained And Showing Just 2 Owners From New
Includes Factory Books, Tools, Extra Keys, And Original Purchase Documents

First introduced in 1992, the E36 generation of the venerable M3 was initially available only in a coupe configuration, with a sedan and convertible version introduced later. These early cars were all fitted with a 5-speed manual transmission and the 3.0 L S50 I6 engine that put out 282 hp in Europe and most other countries. The US version of the car received the downgraded S50B30US engine version, which put out a lesser 240 hp and used single-piece brake rotors rather than floating rotors. Another important difference was in the headlights, as Euro-spec headlights featured glass lenses and projectors, while US-spec headlights used plastic lenses and omitted the superior ellipsoid projectors.

The E36 chassis received a refresh for the 1996 model year, and with this update, BMW provided the “Evolution” moniker to help emphasize the performance upgrades the car would receive. This new Evo version was only available to the European market, a move that left many stateside enthusiasts disappointed at the time. Visual updates were slim with the introduction of new wheels, clear indicator lenses, a revised double kidney grill, and the integration of the third brake light into the spoiler. Most importantly, though, these new Evolution models received a much-needed 6-speed manual transmission as well as an upgraded 3.2 L S50 I6 engine, now making 316 hp. This new 3.2L engine provided a healthy and welcome bump in power thanks to an increased compression ratio, lightweight pistons, graphite connecting rods, and a revised exhaust manifold, amongst a host of other upgrades. The US-spec post-facelift version, unfortunately, stayed with the original 240 hp version, still equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission. The fact that the US never received the upgraded version of the E36 left many lusting after what they could not have.

Over time, the E36 platform has seen its ups and downs. From its introduction, it received great praise for its phenomenal chassis and handling. Still, over the years, enthusiasts and collectors put it on the back burner as newer and faster offerings arrived on the scene. Lately, though, the E36 M3 has seen a fantastic rise in popularity again as buyers have once again rediscovered the incredible overall driving experience that this generation of M3 provides. In addition, many of today’s younger collectors grew up lusting after the E36 M3, and the time has finally come when they can put one in their garage. The lifting of the import restrictions on the European-only Evolution model provides the US market with long-awaited access to the highly desirable ultimate iteration of the E36 chassis. Overall pricing on Evolution models has steadily climbed over the past 5 years, and we see ample room for continued growth in value. As with any collector car from the 90s, low mileage and proper servicing are paramount with the E36 platform. Many of these cars were driven hard, and if not maintained properly, various mechanical and electrical problems can quickly consume the car and your wallet. In addition, BMW offered the stereotypical color schemes as well as some truly unique and special colors. Finding a low mileage, well-cared-for example in unique colors is crucial to the future collectability of the vehicle.

In June 1997, this M3 Evolution Coupe, chassis # WBSBG91060EW39311, was delivered new to Valencia, Spain, in a rare left-hand drive configuration. The car left the factory wearing the stunning Estoril Blue Metallic exterior and an extended leather black buffalo interior. It is reportedly 1 of only 1,799 in this configuration produced. It was also very generously optioned with limited-slip differential, heated seats, a headlight cleaning system, rear sunblind, park distance control, electric sunroof, automatic climate control, front power windows, and a pass-through rear seat.

This M3 Evolution would stay with its original owner for most of its life, receiving many years of regular servicing and careful enjoyment. This prized M3 Evolution Coupe changed hands for the first time in 2022 when it was sold to an exceptional Munich-based BMW collection. Rarely used but always admired while within the collector’s care, today, this stunning M3 Evolution is presented with just over 30,000 kilometers.

From our research, we found that BMW produced only 1,799 left-hand drive Evolution Coupes in this specification for Europe in 1997, and it is highly unlikely that any significant number of these are in a condition as outstanding as this one. This is a wonderful example of one of the most desirable variants of the E36 generation of M3, finished in one of BMW’s iconic and rare factory paint colors and benefiting from a life of sparing use and extreme care.

Upon purchase, the new owner will receive the original owner’s books, the factory toolkit, and an extra pair of keys.

Please visit www.LBILimited.com for many more photos and details. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @LBILimited. Ride along on our classic car adventures by subscribing to LBI Limited on YouTube. #claimyourclassic™