1999 BMW M3 Evolution (E36) Convertible

Background:

Launched in 1992, the E36 M3 was the second generation of BMW’s high performance sports coupé. The new design came with a good level of practicality, more room, more creature comforts and was easier to use on a daily basis, the main focus being on the new 6-cylinder engine, originally launched as a 3.0-litre, producing 286 bhp.

The M3 was restrained visually, a real ‘sleeper’ with just a few giveaways such as the aerodynamic mirrors, front and rear bumper aprons and distinctive 17” wheels. The M3 was 30mm lower than the standard 3-Series, with enhanced handling. If you didn't spot these differences, the sheer power of the M3 gave it away as something quite special.

In 1993, the convertible model was added, offering the same performance, with added roof-down appeal. Two years later, the M3 got a slight facelift with some minor cosmetic changes, but the biggest change of all was the addition of the 3.2-litre straight-six, like the one we have here.

The car:

Registered on 2nd March 1999 to its one and only keeper, this iconic M car was supplied by Coopers BMW of Tunbridge Wells (now Arden BMW) and has remained with its one and only custodian ever since, showing zero previous keepers on the V5.

Finished in Fern Green Metallic with a matching light green leather interior, the soft top is also finished in a light green, to complement the rest of the car and there is the highly-desirable bonus of a matching hard top. This very special Evo comes with its original dealer book pack with handbook and stamped service book, along with a plethora of invoices detailing service works dating right back to the first service. All the maintenance work has been completed by the same supplying dealer of the car, keeping everything traceable.

Approximately five years ago the SMG gearbox had to be replaced so a brand-new replacement was sourced from BMW Germany and duly installed by Arden’s, all documented. The vendor then had some paint rectification work done, to make the car present back to as new, while the wheels were refurbished at the same time.

Summary:

With just one registered keeper and a comprehensive supplying-dealer provenance, this is one rather special M3 Evolution which offers superb open-top performance and is surely very collectable.

Seller: Private

Location: Kent

Pictures: Professionally photographed