1988 BMW M3 Evo II
HIGHLIGHTS
#184 of 500 Desirable M3 Evo IIs Produced
Highly Original, With One Exterior Repaint
Original German Market Delivery, 20+ Years in France
Documentation From 1988 To Current
SPECIFICATIONS
VIN - WBSAK010002191493
Engine – 2.3L, Four Cylinder
Gearbox – 5 Speed Manual
Drivetrain - Front engine, RWD
PRICING INFORMATION
Price - OFF MARKET
OVERVIEW
Widely recognized as one of the best M series cars ever developed, the E30 M3 has been recognized as an icon of motoring excellence from both American and European enthusiasts even though none of these cars were ever imported to North America when new. Developed as the second in a series of Evolution models to meet homologation requirements, 500 units were offered with special features in addition to the already robust M series equipment package. Introduced in 1988, the Evo II was so impressive as a build that only the doors and roof were maintained as the starting point. All else was carefully refined to build these special cars.
The Evo II featured the S14 engine with 30 more horsepower than the already powerful M3, delivering a whopping 217hp, the highest output 2.3L BMW used in the 3 series for homologation. The Evo II sported BBS cross-spoke 16” x 7.5” wheels, was outfitted with thinner weight saving rear and side glass, a lighter trunk lid, a deeper front spoiler, lightened bumpers, and a unique rear spoiler. The resulting refinements were impressive from a performance perspective, but also delivered a memorable visual impression, one that continues to impress collectors and enthusiasts seeking performance, comfort, and distinctive design in a purpose-built touring car.
This particular example is an exceptionally well-maintained Evo II with known history since new. Finished in beautiful Nogaro Silver Metallic, additional features include all Evo II package items, 5 speed manual transmission, rear wing, front spoiler, brake cooling ducts, “Box Flared” fender arches, Silver Uberkaro half leather seats with cloth inserts and matching door inserts, lift-up and slide back sunroof, power windows, M3 number plate, and AM/FM cassette stereo.
Originally a German market car, the car was relocated to France in 1990 where it remained with the second owner until sold in 2010 to the third owner, a UK resident. In 2015 the car was sold to the current US owner. Documentation accompanying the car contains records for services dating back to 1988 with the majority of service history spanning the second owner where it was located for 20 years in France. In 1998, the original odometer ceased to operate at 124,000 kms and was replaced with a correct used unit, then showing 61,000 kms. As the car currently shows 84,000 kms, the total 147,000 kms are believed to be correct, and fully documented.
Today this beautiful M3 Evo II displays beautifully executed overall finishes and glossy paint throughout all body surfaces. Having been treated to a correct and professionally applied exterior repaint, the still original finishes are quite nice both in the door jambs and underside areas of the trunk and hood. The silver cross-spoke wheels are in excellent condition showing no curb rash or notable marks. The tires, while certainly usable for show or mild driving, will likely benefit from replacement due to age. The original factory marked glass, exterior lenses, and emblems are all in beautiful condition. All rubber trim and gaskets are also in excellent condition. Every cosmetic aspect of this M3 has been carefully preserved by the four owners, who have maintained important original features while still enjoying the impressive driving experience captured in the Evo II series cars.
The supple silver-grey leather interior is an artful iteration of performance and luxury nicely contrasted with cloth inserts and the dynamic M logo. The matching contoured door panels and cloth inserts are all beautifully preserved appearing essentially as new, with only mild areas of use evident to the cloth material. The performance-oriented dashboard is also beautifully preserved displaying a combination of black accents with a factory installed stereo and adjustable climate controls. All features and systems function as expected, including the digital overhead unit, power windows, and retractable sunroof. The steering wheel, instrumentation, and controls offer original finishes and fastidious detailing. The carpet is in excellent condition, showing only minor evidence of use. Overall, the interior presents well-preserved finishes reflective of the documented care and service this Evo II has seen since new. The trunk compartment has been beautifully preserved, displaying an excellent factory trunk liner and carpeting as well as the correct factory tool tray, which remains in excellent condition with factory tools still in place, as well as a hazard/warning triangle in the original case.
Under the hood, this M3 is a feast for the eyes exhibiting continued originality and excellent detailing. The engine and all components retain their correct factory finishes including the striking white BMW M Power twin-cam cover with the distinctive tricolor vector stripes mirrored across the engine on the unique air box. Correct engine components, all factory stampings, correct labels and correct factory markings are all present and in excellent condition. Underneath the car, inspection reveals evidence of use typical for the miles shown, but the floor pan and suspension components are clean and tidy and there is no visual evidence of structural compromise to the floor or any of the major suspension attachment points.
The car starts, drives and handles very much in keeping with the highly revered and deserved status of these cars. The combination of excellent ride and sport handling is a hallmark of the M3, even more so with the Evo II package, which offers impressive results acceleration, comfortable cruising at highway speeds, and the ability to enjoy leisurely carving of mountain roads. This Evo II comes with the original BMW owner’s manual, service manual (stamped with several dealer service entries), and other factory manuals. Also included with the car is a file containing several invoices documenting services performed on the car.
Considered to be among the top performance sport sedans even constructed, the BMW M3 Evo II is rapidly becoming more and more sought after among collectors and enthusiasts. Exceptional well-maintained and documented originals such as this example are becoming harder and harder to find as more enthusiasts discover the many merits of these cars. This truly exceptional M3 Evo II delivers on the promise of performance touring just as originally offered, while continuing to maintain its rising position as a premier contemporary classic.
Please contact Jason Harris at +1-206-355-7727 for more information on this 1988 BMW M3 Evo II.
