M3 (1986 to 2018)

First introduced in 1986 with the E30 generation, the BMW M3 was originally developed as a homologation special for touring car racing and has since evolved into one of the most influential performance nameplates in automotive history. Across its generations, the M3 has transitioned from a lightweight, motorsport-derived four-cylinder coupe to a high-powered performance sedan and coupe, featuring naturally aspirated and turbocharged inline-six and V8 engines, rear-wheel drive (and later all-wheel drive), and continual advances in chassis and drivetrain technology. Each generation reflects BMW M’s changing philosophy, from the raw focus of early cars to the dual-purpose road and track capability of modern examples. Total global BMW M3 production exceeds approximately 100,000 units across all generations, though early models and limited variants account for only a small fraction of that figure. In the Australian market, the M3 has enjoyed strong official support and consistent demand since the E36 era, becoming a staple of local performance car culture. Values are driven by generation, engine configuration, transmission choice, originality, mileage, and condition, with early homologation models, naturally aspirated cars, and low-production special editions commanding the strongest long-term collector interest.