1987 BMW M3 E30

VIN: WBSAK0307J2196155
Sold by Collecting Cars

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LocationBrisbane, QLD
Odometer153,211 km
TransmissionManual
SteeringRight-hand drive

Seller's Notes

This E30-generation BMW M3 is a desirable homologation-era performance icon, finished in a timeless colour scheme and fitted with some appealing modifications. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.3-litre inline-four ‘S14’, producing around 143kW and driving the rear wheels through a rebuilt five-speed ‘dogleg’ manual transmission and a 3.46 limited-slip differential. As outlined in the accompanying owner-written history document (which is available to view in the image gallery), This M3 is noted to have been first registered in the USA, before being purchased by a BMW technician in 2012, who imported it into Australia in 2013. It was subsequently converted from left to right-hand drive using parts from a 318i donor car, a job which was completed in 2014. The interior colour was changed from beige to black, and various mechanical components were replaced, overhauled or modified. The odometer shows 153,211 km, but this is not the accurate total, as the instrument cluster is said to have been replaced with around 200,000 miles on the clock. Build year: 1987 This E30-era M3 is finished in the vibrant shade of Henna Red, over a black vinyl interior. It rides on a set of aftermarket 17-inch five-spoke split-rim alloy wheels, fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres. Equipment includes an electric sunroof, cruise control, an on-board computer, air conditioning, and an updated Kenwood stereo with Bluetooth. Modifications include a refurbished M-Tech II 370mm steering wheel, a Z3 steering rack with custom hoses and spacers (2.7 turns from lock to lock, and 50mm of travel per rotation), as well as larger headers, a Dinan ECU chip, slotted and ventilated brake discs, H&R springs with Bilstein shock absorbers, a stainless steel exhaust (from the headers back), and a carbon-fibre plenum. Accompanying the vehicle will be its import approval document dated October 2013, a Samford and Surrounds All Makes Car Club declaration for concessional registration dated November 2021, a history and maintenance summary written by a previous owner, and some invoices. One ignition key will be supplied. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. The vehicle’s CarFax report shows that it suffered damage to its front end in August 1989. Specific notes from the seller include: a complete respray was done one year ago. In February 2025, Classic Fix replaced the spark plugs, fitted a new fuel pump, and replaced the cam cover gaskets and alternator bushings. An inspection was completed by the automotive engineering consultant Steven J. Janda in December 2014. There is an invoice on file for a gearbox overhaul and racing-style modification by Hornsby Differential and Gearbox Specialists, dated November 2014. Parts included a complete genuine gearbox gasket set, a complete genuine seal kit, five synchro rings, a rear locking tab, an input shaft needle roller bearing, a genuine center main shaft support bearing, a front input shaft high capacity bearing, a front counter shaft high capacity bearing, a rear main shaft high capacity bearing, a rear counter shaft high capacity bearing, two center main shaft retaining tabs, and two retaining bolts. This E30-generation BMW M3 is a desirable homologation-era performance icon, finished in a timeless colour scheme and fitted with some appealing modifications. Now fitted with a Z3 steering rack, slotted brake discs and a carbon-fibre plenum, it would make a highly rewarding weekend driver, or a cherished addition to a collection of classic performance icons.

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Vehicle Specs

Specifications

Details recorded in the AutoMarkets database and verified by our market specialists.

Identity

Year1987
MakeBMW
Model family3 Series
Model generation—
Model variantM3 E30
Model trimM3

Mechanical

Engine2.3L I4 (S14)
TransmissionManual
Fuel type—
Drive type—
Originality—
Odometer153,211 km
VINWBSAK0307J2196155

Body & Finish

Vehicle typeAutomobile
Body styleCoupe
Doors—
Driver sideRHD
Exterior colourHenna Red
Interior colourBlack

The vehicle is recorded in the AutoMarkets database under VIN WBSAK0307J2196155. The car was listed as a 1987 BMW 3 Series and sold via Collecting Cars. AutoMarkets tracks verified auction results, dealerships and private sellers across Australia to provide accurate historical market data.