BMW E30 2.5 M3 Sport Evolution 1988
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Car producer : |
BMW |
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Model: |
E30 2.5 M3 Sport Evolution 1988 |
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Year: |
1987-1991 |
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Type: |
Coupe |
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986.
The initial model was available in a coupé body style, with a convertible body style added soon after. M3 sedans were available during the E36 (1994–1999) and E90 (2008–2012) generations.
Upgrades over the regular 3 Series models include engines, handling, brakes, aerodynamics, lightweight materials and various interior upgrades.
The first BMW M3 was based on the E30 3 Series and was produced from March 1986 to June 1991. The majority of E30 M3s were produced in the coupe body style, but limited volumes of convertibles were also produced.
The body shape for the M3 has been changed significantly, among other things to further improve the torsional rigidity, the Cd and the driving dynamics. The suitability for racing was in the foreground, therefore sacrifices in comfort and production costs could be made. The modifications included eye-catching fender flares to allow a wider track.
The front spoiler, the rear apron, sill panels, as well as changes to the body in the area of the rear window (C-pillar) and the trunk lid improved the aerodynamics. For aerodynamic reasons, the rear window has been flattened and the tailgate made of light, glass fiber reinforced plastic and raised by approximately 40 mm for better air flow. The changes in the rear area resulted in lower lift forces and better straight-line stability. In addition, the windscreen was glued in - and not, as with the other E30 models, framed with a window rubber and piping. As a result, the M3 achieved a relatively low drag coefficient of Cd=0.33 instead of 0.38 as in the normal model. Among other things, the subsequent conversions of normal 3s to the M3 version can usually be identified on the C-pillar. The only exterior body panels the regular 3 Series and the M3 shared were the bonnet, roof panel, sunroof and door inner panels.The brake calipers, rotors and master cylinder were unique to the M3 model.
The transmission was a Getrag 265 5-speed manual. European models were outfitted with a dogleg version with close ratios and a 1:1 ratio for fifth gear. North American models used a traditional shift pattern and had wider gear spacing with an overdriven fifth gear. A clutch-type limited-slip differential was standard equipment.
The official kerb weights of the 1986 M3 coupe was 1,165 kg (2,568 lb) and the 1988 M3 convertible was 1,360 kg (2,998 lb). The kerb weight for the US specification M3 was 1,240.6 kg (2,735 lb).
The E30 M3 used the BMW S14 four-cylinder engine, a high-revving DOHC design with a head closely based on that of the BMW S38 six-cylinder engine and the block from the BMW M10 four-cylinder engine. In countries where the M3 was sold with a catalytic converter, the initial versions were rated at 143 kW (195 PS; 192 hp) and had a top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph). In countries where a catalytic converter was not fitted, the engine generated 147 kW (200 PS; 197 hp).
In September 1989, European M3s were upgraded to the 158 kW (215 PS; 212 hp) (as introduced on the Ravaglia special edition model), increasing the top speed to 240 km/h (149 mph).
Differences to the regular E30 models included: 5-stud wheel hubs, offset control arm bushings in the front suspension, for increased caster angle, aluminium control arms, revised front strut tubes with bolt on kingpins and swaybar mounted to strut tube, similar to the E28 5 Series, front wheel bearings and brake calliper bolt spacing from the E28 5 Series.
Total production of the E30 M3 was 17,970 cars.
A more powerful and lighter "Sport Evolution" model (sometimes referred as "EVO3") with a limited production run of 600 units was produced with an upgraded 2,467 cc (150.5 cu in) engine rated at 175 kW (238 PS; 235 hp) at 7,000 rpm and 240 N⋅m (177 lbf⋅ft) at 4,750 rpm. The top speed was increased to 250 km/h (154 mph). Sport Evolution models have enlarged front bumper openings and an adjustable multi-position front splitter and rear wing. Brake cooling ducts were installed in place of front foglights.
