BMW (E30) M3 Evo II (1988)

Compared to the S14 motors fitted to other M3s of the period, the Evolution 2 (Evo 2) engine was easily identifiable on account of its white cam cover and intake plenum chamber, further decorated with a red and blue BMW Motorsport tricolour. The Evo 2 saw a 20bhp jump in power and a nominal increase in torque. Transmission was through a Getrag 265 close-ratio five-speed gearbox (with dogleg first), a hydraulic clutch and a limited-slip differential with 25% locking factor. For the Evolution 2, BMW installed a slightly reduced final drive ratio to provide a higher top speed (3.15:1 instead of 3.25:1). The 0-60 sprint saw a reduction of 0.3 seconds over standard, and the top speed rise to 152mph.

From the outside, the Evo 2 introduced a more aggressive chin spoiler and the deletion of front fog lights in favour of brake cooling ducts. The boot lid featured a rear spoiler complete with new trailing flap. Further weight was saved from revisions to the front and rear structures, with the side and rear windows being replaced with thinner elements.

The Evo 2 was offered in just three colours, each named after motorsport circuits and all three introduced for the first time in 1988 on the model; Macau Blue, Nogaro Silver and Misano Red. Inside, the Evolution 2 came with just one type of upholstery: silver grey checked cloth trim with matching leather seat bolsters. Uniquely, both the front and rear seat faces were accessorised with BMW Motorsport tricolour lapel flashes of the type used on the E28 M5. Other special equipment included an individually numbered plaque out of 500 located ahead of the gear lever and door sill plates with an M3 logo.

Supplied new to Ernst Sczesny of Augsberg through authorised BMW dealership Schaumberger BMW of Landsberg on 7th June 1988, this BMW Evo 2 was optioned new in Misano Red Metallic as one of just 500 examples built.

Accompanying this example is its original bookpack and most importantly, its original service book that details both the original owners’ name, and also the near annual services carried out by the supplying dealership over the course of the first 10 years.

The service book notes no fewer than 10 services with Schaumberger BMW, with the mileage documented at 71,835 kilometres at the time of its last German service in 1998.

This example was first registered in the UK in May 1998 by Mr Armstrong. It would change hands upon arrival in the UK, finding a long-term home with Mr Jenning shortly after arrival. This example would remain in his care until his decision to sell some 10 years later. The accompanying history file documents his frequent servicing of the car and together with the service book illustrates a wonderful precursory service ahead of a trip to France and then a service in France when due!

The car changed hands in 2008 to its third UK owner for the princely sum of £9,255! Mr Khan retained the car for two years, during which time it received extensive works to replace perished rubbers and hoses including fuel lines on the car.

This example was purchased by the current keeper in June 2010 and despite covering fewer than 10,000 miles in his ownership, they have ensured the car has been mechanically maintained to a very high standard. Since purchase and on behalf of the owner, DK Engineering have overseen a floorpan restoration, the interior was retrimmed in original fabric and the engine was fully rebuilt in house. Since its overhaul, this E30 has remained within our secure storage facility when not in use and has been subtly upgraded with AP Racing front brakes as well as a modern Pioneer head unit.

This stunning BMW M3 Evo 2 is available to view at our showrooms outside London immediately by appointment, accompanied by its original book pack, service book and accompanying history folio.