BMW is celebrating thirty years of the BMW M3 with a new limited edition version of the very latest car, dubbed the M3 30 Jahre Limited Edition.
Following in the footsteps of the M5 30 Jahre (super-saloon group test winner in evo 208), the M3 gets a selection of distinctive visual additions, as well as BMW’s Competition Package.
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The latter lifts the M3’s standard 425bhp output to 444bhp, with a healthy torque output of 406lb ft. While top speed remains limited to 155mph, it’s enough to launch the M DCT model to 62mph in four seconds flat, or a tenth quicker than the regular production car.
In addition, 30 Jahre models include Adaptive M suspension (suited to the Competition Package power output) and new springs, dampers and anti-roll bars. The stability control system has also been revised.
All this goes on under the skin, but it’s the 30 Jahre’s styling tweaks that will define it to the outside world. Each car gets forged, 20-inch alloy wheels of a unique design. Tyres are 265/30 R20 up front and a beefier 285/30 R20 astern.
Where the M5 30 Jahre got a matte grey paint finish, the M3 30 Jahre gets a coat of BMW Individual Frozen Silver metallic, with contrasting high-gloss black elements. The exhaust tailpipes also have a darkened finish and the splitter, mirror caps, rear diffuser and spoiler are all fashioned from carbonfibre.
Inside too there are changes, though none quite match the extreme nature of the M4 GTS range-topper. Instead, driver and front passenger get a set of M sports front seats with a striking two-tone finish and embroidered 30 Jahre logos. BMW Motorsport’s tri-colour stripes can be found on the seatbelts and in the stitching of the three-spoke steering wheel.
Carbonfibre and leather feature throughout the cabin, while a Harman/Kardon sound system joins adaptive LED headlights, BMW M Carbon Ceramic brakes and a head-up display on the standard equipment list.
The cost of this, and myriad 30 Jahre logos, comes to £82,675 on the road – a standard M3 Competition Package will set you back £59,605, by way of comparison. Deliveries begin this summer.
