Highlights

Low mileage of only 58,000
Just four registered keepers
Tidy Estoril Blue with SMG 6spd gearbox
Facelift ‘Evolution’ model with 320bhp 3.2L engine
MOT to July 2025 with no advisories

The Appeal

The ‘Evolution’ was the ultimate version of one of the best M3s ever built - the E36. This car, with its more powerful 3.2L 320bhp straight six S50 engine, carefully balanced driver engagement with technological sophistication.

Canny buyers presaged the current trend for dual clutch ‘Tiptronic’ gearboxes by ticking the box marked ‘SMG.’ This delivered BMW’s innovative clutchless sequential auto box. Cars so equipped are both engaging B road Banzais and relaxing long distance cruisers.

This ‘Evolution’ has that feature plus a convertible roof to further broaden the appeal. It is finished in popular Estoril Blue with Nappa grey leather and has covered just 58,000 miles from new in the hands of only four keepers.

We are told that the car has been serviced annually and is mechanically ‘spot on.’ That is an impression reinforced by the current MOT, which runs to July 2025 with no advisories. It is a presentable and tidy car that looks very entertaining.

The History and Paperwork

First registered 25tyh November 1998
Factory built on 22nd October 1998
Four registered keepers
Current keeper since July 2024
Seller tells us that the current keeper has had the car for four years
Always garaged during current keeper’s tenure
Unfortunately mostt of the paperwork has been lost
But we are told the car has been serviced annually
Standard and unmodified car according to seller
Factory handbook as shown
V5C in current keeper’s name
Facelift Evolution car with 3.2L S50 320bhp engine
Current MOT to 14th July 2025 with no advisories
57,401 miles on test

The Condition

Popular Estoril Blue metallic paintwork in generally presentable condition
There are some marks to the paintwork to note in photographs
These include chips to door edges and base and to mirrors
Bodywork appears to be straight and generally well kept with no reported of accidents
Underside in good, presentable order with no structural advisories on current MOT
Dunlop tyres fitted which show good remaining tread
Factory five spoke alloy wheels with matching spare in fair condition with some kerbing
Blue folding electric roof in generally good and working condition
Grey Nappa leather interior in presentable condition with some marks to note
These include scuffs and creasing to front and rear seats as shown
The marks to the leather may likely be improved by a professional steam clean valet
Unmodified M3 E36 interior with original BMW radio fitted
Switchgear and trim generally well kept with some marks to note
Boot carpet is complete but shows some staining
Tool kit included as shown in photographs

The Mechanics

3,201cc S50 320bhp straight six ‘Evolution’ specification engine
6spd ‘SMG’ sequential automatic gearbox
Vendor tells us that the car has been serviced annually
He tells us that the car ‘starts and runs spot on’
We have no reported of running or driving issues
No mechanical or running gear advisories on current MOT test

The vendor tells us:

"The M3 is amazing to drive, it’s quick, responsive and sounds lovely. The car is completely standard as it left the factory. The 3.2 litre engine has a great, raspy noise. The Estoril Blue colour with the wheels is my favourite combination. The SMG gearbox box is so smooth and it’s the reason why I looked into this car when purchasing.”

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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