Born from Group A homologation requirements, the original M3 distilled BMW’s formidable touring-car ambitions into one of the era’s great driver’s cars, defined by evocative box flares, a high-revving S14-Series four, and a race-bred chassis. Among the scarcest E30 M3 variants was the Cabriolet. Just 786 were built, and unlike the Coupe, the open model was never offered in North America.

By the time this example was built, the S14 had evolved into one of the highest-output, naturally aspirated engines of its day, producing 215 hp from 2.3 liters, with aggressive camshafts, individual throttle bodies, and a 7,250 rpm redline. Cabriolets retained the Coupe’s widened bodywork and much of its hardcore DTM-for-the-road character while adding the appeal of al fresco motoring.

This M3, among the last Cabriolets built, is finished in Diamantschwarz (Diamond Black) Metallic with BBS-made Style 5 “basketweave” wheels. Just 476 received the final 215 hp engine specification fitted to this example, while its rarity in the US is underscored by the mere 5,115 E30 M3s of all variants BMW sold new in the US.
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With its late-specification S14 engine, production position, and the model’s historical distinction as BMW M’s first convertible, this M3 Cabriolet represents a compelling variation on the legendary E30 theme.