AA43 • BMW M3 (E30) Evo 2 '88

The BMW M3 is an institution. For many, the first 4-cylinder engine generation (E30), is considered the purest and most successful. The Evolution 2, produced exclusively for the '88 vintage is even more effective and desirable. But what did it for? Why is it part of the best sport ever produced by the brand?

Technical sheet

Model	BMW M3 Evolution 2
Engine	2.3 inline 4-cylinder 220 horsepower
Dimensions	4.35 x 1.68 x 1.37 meters
Mass	1 275 kg
Marketing	1988 501 copies
average coast	100 000 €
0 to 100 km / h	6"9
max	244 km/h
Consumption	9.8 l / 100 km
Date and place	December 6, 2015, Mayenne

Precursory . For many purists, the real M3, this is it. The first generation, code-named E30, is indeed a lot of arguments. First of all, it differs from the 3 series from which it flows through a body kit with spoiler, flared fenders, side skirts but also more inclined rear window for improved aerodynamics with a drag coefficient of 0.33. The BMW M3 (E92) 2007 is slightly better with 0.32. Suffice to say that for his age, the original M3 was really successful! But the M3, it was also a very nasty and punchy four-cylinder engine that offered first-rate performance. BMW quickly took note of the public's enthusiasm for this unbridled version of the 3 Series but if M3 (E30) is very rare these days, is not counting on even more advanced versions ... the Evolution 2, we see here, is a perfect illustration.

A dream . To homologate the M3 Group A it was necessary to establish a first set of 500 copies of a more radical version of the M3 series. Thus, the Evolution 1 has emerged, with 505 numbered copies, which is identified with his head adorned with an "E", its exhaust manifold into two parts and a specific air box. Fairly subtle changes that will lead to the vintage 88 to the M3 (E30) Evolution 2. And there, everything changes, almost. Externally, we discover a bumper blade before quite large, a spoiler more imposing, the disappearance of fog in favor of scoops (for cooling the brake discs) and thresholds of branded Motorsport doors. The body retains its width and receives BBS wheels in 16 inch. The public reception is excellent: the BMW to have in his garage. A dream reserved for a public limited however as only 501 copies were created during this 1988 alone.

More assertive . Meet a BMW M3 Evolution 2 is a moment rich in emotion. First one is seized by the machine template, small but stocky and with a pretty face. And when one is faced with a model carefully maintained and preserved by its owner, it is even more striking. The model presented here is chassis number 428 and still has its original yellow headlights, found nowadays. But the beautiful does not dust, it continues to run regularly offering always good times. Let us return to the facts. The Evolution II is thus distinguished by a more assertive line but also by its exterior color, since only three references were proposed: the Misano Red , the Grey Nogaro and Bleu Macau , here presented, offering sublime reflections depending on the angle and the position of the sun. A simple but effective color and allows to better appreciate the generous hips of this improved M3.

Attention to detail . The Evolution II was also recognized by its attention to detail. In order to improve handling (and probably also the aesthetics) , the series of BBS wheels are passed 16 inches. They partially hide ventilated discs 280 millimeters at the front and solid discs of 282 millimeters in back. Braking not toothless, especially a relief cure was made ​​in order to gain some valuable kilos on the scales: the windows are slightly thinner than the M3 series and bumper bars are reduced. IN total, weight is kept to 1 275 kg while taking on a fairly complete equipment: onboard computer, semi-leather upholstery, audio system, air conditioning, rear headrests or even the EDC system, manages suspensions are standard. The beautiful remains versatile enough bonus! Top of the line ? Almost !

Winning combination . The cabin of this 428 ^th copy benefited from the semi-leather plaid (option code: 0305) . Rather acclaimed A relatively simple interior oriented driving pleasure with perfectly positioned controls. Number plate identifying each copy is above the ashtray. This is a cozy cabin and bright, with a comfortable and pleasant sitting. Only one desire: to start the sulfur 4-cylinder engine and see what stuff this M3 inflated testosterone can be heated. And beautiful application that, although it offers a perfect compromise between comfort and performance. There is little that Porsche that we find such a combination so harmonious. Let's finish with the more general: we could call this classic but inside everything is assembled with delicacy and rigor, leaving the opportunity for buyers to enrich the situation through the use of options, including the sunroof, heated seats or towels -glaces headlights whose benefits that copy No. 428.

Always in shape . Let us come to the bowels of our M3 (E30) Evolution 2. As the original M3, the 4-cylinder has a displacement of 2.3 liters. But the management is reviewed. The cylinder head is taken from Evolution 1, new pistons have a rate compresssion to 11: 1, cam journals pulleys trees, an air box with a larger intake are in the game. There is also a lightened flywheel, a more permissive electronic control, uncatalysed line or even a separate exhaust manifold into two parts. It follows a power of 220 hp and torque to 235 Nm. Even more than in terms of pure performance is in the behavior that Evolution 2 will appreciate the most. The beautiful never reluctant to climb the towers and offer occasions to relatively low speeds.

Tinsel . The S14 block the M3 Evolution 2 has a white paint specific colors Motorsport, for the rocker cover and the air box. A nice engine to the eye, especially when it is washed regularly. Note the impeccable service this copy which despite almost daily use is still very well preserved. The sound is beautiful, husky and wish to particularly demonstrative when each mounted in the towers. Almost as 4-cylinder one regret was not renewed in the following generations of M3. Even today, the M3 Evolution 2 are highly sought for their engine optimization which has been top. The market value of the opportunity of these models has never been as high, reaching the new price of a beautiful Porsche 911 ... New!

€ 100,000 . In 1988, the M3 Evolution II was sold 299 000 Francs, which, if one brings in the euro taking into account inflation, to € 100,000. A high price for the time, slightly higher than a Porsche 911. The options were otherwise largely drive up the note. Today, the first generation M3 are most popular for their authenticity, line and engine. The Evolution II in particular offer an interesting compromise. Other versions have emerged, in the form of special series, all the more rare than the other you can find at end of article.Always that never another generation has much furore that raw E30.

Dear M3 . In 2015, all M3 Evolution II have now 27 years old, which means that some have lived well, the use is on track or not. Maintenance may not have been followed scrupulously in particular because of specific parts relatively expensive. The convertible versions have been created but have not had the expected success due to a lack of rigidity that penalized behavior. Finding M3 Evolution II today is both a miracle and luck, it is necessary to pay the price but the beautiful worth.

Authentic . With the exception of elevated spoiler and dual exhaust, the rear of the BMW M3 (E30) Evolution 2 is rather quiet. But it is enough to start the engine to realize that this is only an impression. The copy presented here is not for sale but would exchange definitely enough for a colossal sum: it is one of the few copies having never run, first-hand and is perfectly original, to yellow headlights. You said heart stroke?

Different versions

Should I buy a BMW M3 (E30) Evo 2?

The original M3, it's her! If you have definitely fallen for the Evolution II, arm yourself with patience toruver a nice copy, healthy to boot. The interview is not particularly expensive except for some mechanical parts.Everything remains easily accessible, which may lead to either intervene even if we have the knowledge.Jewel, it is a model engaging, reliable and incredibly versatile. The few € 100,000 needed for a nice copy may seem exaggerated, for sure ... But the beautiful leaves no approach by the first comer!