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The E30 generation BMW M3, the very first of its name, has become one of the most sought-after sports cars in recent years. It was the standard to which all sports cars labeled as such were held to. Which is one reason you can find a few examples going for almost $100,000 on Hemmings. It’s so desirable that even classic car buyers seemed to have stopped caring whether or not an E30 they find is even all original. Case in point: this E30 M3 with an S50 engine transplant from a next-generation E36 M3.
It should be known by now that collectors are really into number-matching parts and period-correct details. It’s what drives their obsession and, concurrently, the upward swing of classic car market prices. So to see an M3 that’s essentially been resto-modded, with 118,000 miles on the clock, at a starting bid of $35,000 — that’s proof that it’s too late to get a good deal on an original M3, let alone a modded and restored one.
Editor’s Note: The price listed reflects the bid at the time of publishing.
Maybe You’d Prefer a German Sportscar
Generally, classic car resale values hinge on minute details: number-matching parts, factory-spec paint, even certain trim options. But when it boils down to it, not having factory paint really won’t spoil the fun you have behind the wheel, will it? Read the Story