1998 BMW E36 M3 GT (Imola Individual)

The E36 M3 was a more refined, six cylinder range-topper derived from the 325iS, unlike its four-cylinder E30 predecessor. Critics claimed it was closer to a 6 Series replacement than a true M3 and to an extent they were right, but then, BMW never argued otherwise, it was a quick car that would appeal to everyone from the racer to the family man and business user. At this time, the Motorsport Division's new take on the iconic M3 was to utilise the standard M50TU engine (used in other E36s and earlier E34s). However, there were numerous upgrades over the standard M50 including individual throttle plates for each cylinder, continuously variable "Vanos' valve timing, lightweight pistons, graphite-coated connecting rods, larger inlet valves and re-designed equal length exhaust manifolds.The resultant 24-valve, S50B30 engine had a capacity of 2990cc and produced 282bhp, an output approaching 100bhp/litre, which was (and is) pretty impressive. The torque curve is high and flat and the dual mass flywheel contributes to the engine's ability to rev to nearly 7,300rpm. In 1996, the M3 was developed further with an increase in capacity to 3,152cc becoming known as the (M3) Evolution.

The Evolution Imola Individual (M3 GT) was a limited edition of 50, E36 M3s offered by BMW in 1999. They were finished in Imola Red with Nappa Leather and a bespoke interior in Amaretto and Anthracite. It also featured side airbags, the M3 GT Class II rear spoiler, front Class II corner splitter extensions, electric seats, and double spoke polished alloys.

Offered here is a three owner, M3 GT with 87,000 miles indicated that's in fantastic condition and needs to be seen to be fully appreciated. The current owner is a close friend of Silverstone Auctions and purchased the car a couple of years ago to add to his private collection. Since then the car has resided in dry storage and has only completed around 50 miles during his ownership.

For some reason, the E36 M3 has not only lagged behind its predecessor, the iconic E30 M3 but surprisingly behind its successor the E46 M3 in terms of values, but this sparkling M3GT Imola (number 5 of 50) is unlikely to ever suffer this malaise, offering rarity, genuine performance, and exclusivity. Supplied with a good history file, its relevant manuals, and a spare key, don't miss out on this sensibly guided and superb piece of BMW's history.