1998 BMW E36 M3 Evolution Convertible
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
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✓ 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..
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✓ 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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Vehicle specification
- Year 1998
- Make BMW
- Model M3
- Colour Blue
- Odometer 58,000 Miles
- Engine size 3201
Listing Details
- Seller type Private
- Town Halifax
- Location Yorkshire
- Country United Kingdom
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