Racing Special: 1990 BMW M3 Evolution 2

The pages of automotive history books are littered with moments when manufacturers pushed the boundaries by producing thinly disguised homologation specials designed to deliver what is sometimes called “the unfair advantage” in motorsport competition. The Plymouth Superbird and Dodge Daytona were perfect examples, although the same practice existed in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. With those areas embracing International Group A competition during the 1980s and the first World Touring Car Championship scheduled for 1987, BMW pulled out the stops with its First Generation M3 model. This 1990 example is the rare Evolution 2 variant, and its condition is hard to criticize. It has generated significant interest since hitting the market, so why not take a look to see what all the fuss is about?

It only took a single look at the M3 to identify its racing pedigree. Based on the E30 Series, the M3 received front and rear spoilers, while the company fitted bulging fender flares to accommodate the largest tires permitted under Group A regulations. The effort paid dividends, with Italian driver Roberto Ravaglia securing the 1987 World Touring Car Championship behind the wheel of one of these gems. BMW released two Sports Evolution variants, including the Evolution 2 model in 1988. Visually, it brought an even larger front spoiler with integrated brake ducts, while the rear spoiler was enlarged to increase aerodynamic downforce. Our feature car rolled off the line in 1990, finished in Sebring Gray. The seller supplies no information about its history, but criticizing its presentation is virtually impossible. The paint retains an impressive shine, with no evidence of significant flaws or defects. The same is true of the panels, and there are no signs of rust. The spoilers are undamaged, the original alloy wheels are spotless, and the glass is crystal clear.

One aspect of the E30 M3 that has always fascinated me is its engine. The company had significant experience with its 1.5-liter turbocharged four in Formula 1 but decided to pursue the normally aspirated path with its racing rocket. Initially released with a sweet 2.3-liter powerplant, the Evolution 2 saw a capacity increase to 2.5-liters as the company fought the turbocharged onslaught from the Ford Sierra RS500 and Nissan’s all-wheel drive GTR. This engine generates 235hp and 177 ft/lbs of torque, which feeds to the 16″ rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission featuring a dog-leg first gear. The torque figure doesn’t initially suggest that the M3 will be lightning off the line, but it is deceptive. With a curb weight of 2,645 lbs, the Evo will cover the ¼-mile in an impressive 14.4 seconds. Given a long enough piece of German Autobahn, the sweet little four will run out of breath at 154mph. Frustratingly, the seller supplies no information on this classic’s mechanical health, or how it runs and drives. However, the spotless engine bay and odometer reading of 119,000 miles both suggest the news should be positive.

A weak point with the M3 was undoubtedly its interior. We have seen a few of these classics over the years at Barn Finds, with many featuring worn upholstery and damaged plastic. This car has avoided that fate, and even the prone outer edges of the body-hugging bucket seats look good. The dash is spotless, and there is no cracked or crumbling plastic. BMW focused heavily on weight reduction strategies with its road-going racer, so buyers didn’t receive luxury touches like power windows as standard equipment. However, slipping behind the wheel brought one of the purest driving experiences imaginable.

The seller listed this spotless 1990 BMW M3 Evolution 2 here on eBay in Short Hills, New Jersey. Thirteen bids have pushed the price to $60,100, which is below the reserve. However, the auction action may only tell part of the story because 110 people have placed this classic on their Watch List. Recent sales results suggest it could climb into six-figure territory before the hammer falls. Would you be interested at that price, or will you remain an interested spectator as the auction heads to its conclusion?