1998 BMW M3 E36 Evolution

This E36-generation BMW M3 ‘Evolution’ is an impressive and tastefully modified example of the lauded modern classic performance coupe, offered from long-term ownership and enhanced with a number of discerning performance upgrades. Under the bonnet sits a supercharged 3.2-litre ‘S50’ straight-six, now understood to deliver around 298kW (400bhp) to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This original Australia-delivered model was manufactured in 1997, though was first registered in February 1998, and is now reported to have been with the seller and second owner for 19 years. The odometer shows 98,731 Kms from new. This M3 Evolution is finished in the refined shade of Arctic Silver over a grey cabin, featuring retrimmed grey Alcantara-upholstery, M Sport tricolour seat accents, as well as black and aftermarket carbon-fibre trim. It rides on an aftermarket set of 18-inch 9J front and 10J rear BBS LM split-rim alloy wheels finished in silver with polished barrels, framing red D2 callipers, and shod in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres. Equipment includes an electric lift-up-and-slide-back sunroof, rear parking sensors, a top-tinted windscreen, desirable ‘Vader’ front seats, cruise control, a cassette stereo with CD multichanger, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, and an on-board computer. This example has been upgraded with adjustable MCA suspension, widened wheel arch flares, Turner Motorsport sway bars, a Super Sprint exhaust system, D2 brakes, a CAE shifter, a twin-plate Clutch Masters clutch, an AGI four-point rear roll cage, front and rear strut braces, red fabric interior door pulls, a forced induction system, Super Sprint tuned length headers / manifolds, an AEM wideband O2 sensor, and an aftermarket oil/air separator. The Active Autowerke supercharger kit includes a front-mount intercooler and plumbing, as well as an uprated fuel pump and injectors, plenum chamber and pressure release valve. This E36-era M3 Evolution was originally specified with the six-speed ‘SMG’ automated manual transmission, which was converted to a manual gearbox retaining the original transmission with modifications to the internal reverse detents to make it a manual with a clutch pedal and shifter. The car comes with tools, a spare wheel, a jack, the stamped service booklet, the certificate of modification, the roll cage registration form, all the owner’s manuals with a black leather wallet, the original engine components, factory brakes, clutch, flywheel, shifter, some suspension parts, undertrays, as well as factory staggered and forged ‘M Double Spoke LTW’ alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport tyres, and a selection of maintenance invoices. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: the front end, sides and boot lid have been resprayed due to small imperfections and the widening of the wheel arches, there are a few small touched-up stone chips on the front bumper and bonnet, a paint protection film is applied, the interior has been retrimmed, and there is some minor staining on the rear carpets, though this is under the floor mats. This M3’s most recent maintenance was carried out in March 2023 at 98,592 Kms by the seller - a qualified mechanic - which consisted of an engine oil and filter change. Another engine oil and filter change was performed in April 2021 at 97,393 Kms, which also included the brake fluid being changed, and the supercharger oil and filter being replaced. A service was carried out in May 2019 at 94,912 Kms, which included an engine oil and filter change, the brake fluid replaced, the gearbox and differential oils changed, and ‘Inspection II’ service items completed. Other notable maintenance includes all new suspension bushes being fitted, new engine, transmission, and subframe mounts being fitted, and the front and rear ball joints being replaced. Feb 1998, PDI at BMW Melbourne May 1998, 2,118 Kms at BMW Melbourne Jan 1999, 12,472 Kms at BMW Melbourne Jan 2000, 22,322 Kms at BMW Melbourne May 2000, 24,656 Kms at BMW Melbourne Apr 2001, 32,213 Kms at BMW Melbourne Mar 2003, 44,816 Kms at BMW Melbourne Oct 2005, 53,155 Kms at BIB Stillwell BMW Feb 2008, 65,328 Kms at Eurotec Auto Services BMW Specialist Jan 2009, 68,120 Kms at M Automotive Designs Jul 2010, 71,325 Kms at Eurotec Auto Services BMW Specialist Jul 2011, 76,862 Kms by the owner Apr 2012, 79,201 Kms by the owner Jan 2013, 81,333 Kms by the owner Jul 2013, 84,068 Kms by the owner Jun 2014, 86,444 Kms by the owner Sep 2015, 89,038 Kms at M Automotive Designs Apr 2017, 92,228 Kms at M Automotive Designs Apr 2018, 93,659 Kms at M Automotive Designs May 2019, 94,912 Kms at M Automotive Designs Apr 2021, 97,393 Kms at M Automotive Designs Mar 2023, 98,592 Kms at M Automotive Designs This E36-generation BMW M3 Evolution is a well-kept and tastefully modified example of the coveted modern classic performance hero, offered from long-term ownership and enhanced with a number of discerning performance and cosmetic upgrades. Presented with a refined Arctic Silver finish, handsome styling, and now boasting a powerful supercharged straight-six engine coupled to a manual gearbox, and a number of desirable track-focused supporting upgrades, it would make a highly rewarding companion for rapid daily driving, weekend fun, and track-day action alike. The description of this consignment is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. Potential buyers should view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy. Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible vehicles to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, either to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be undetectable even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork during its life. Furthermore, photographs may not reflect the true colour or full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to satisfy themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy. This includes by raising enquiries with the seller in the comments section. For vehicles, unless otherwise stated, potential buyers should also assume that any cherished registration may be retained by the seller. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details. This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.