It’s no secret that BMW’s M Division products are worth their weight in myrrh in South Africa – there’ just something about ‘the most powerful letter in the world’ that really gets South Africans going. Even on cars that are not real ‘M cars’ aftermarket M logos are a cool thing (apparently) and add 10 cool points to any 318i or 120d, no. atter the vintage or condition…
Bring a Trailer, however, have something rather special on auction at the moment. At the time of writing, the bid sits at $22 750 (R368 759) which is a remarkable small amount of money for no only an M car, but one of the true icons. It is, of course, the E36 M3, seen here in Coupé form. With just 38 000 km on the clock, it’s essentially still a new car.
As with most Bring a Trailer listings, this one provides a bit of a backstory, noting that the Bright Red (314) over black Nappa Leather M3 was ordered new for delivery in Germany via the BMW European Delivery Program, and then remained in the care of a single family until it was acquired by the current owner in League City, Texas in October 2018.
Powered by the venerable S50 3,0-litre in-line six, this ‘Euro-spec” M3 produced 210 kW when new, sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox and via a mechanical limited-slip differential.
It is noted that the vehicle has been ceramic coated and presents in impressive condition considering its age, complete with iconic Style 22 wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo. It even has an original BMW window sticker, manufacturer’s literature and original purchase documents present and the Carfax report shows no accidents in the car’s history.
A cursory look online reveals that while an equivalent car is not for sale in South Africa, one can pick up a slightly older E36 M3 with five times the mileage of the car shown for around R70k more than the current bid on the car listed. It is worth noting, however, that as the bid draws to a close, there is a good chance that bids will fly and the hammer will fall at a fair price for this M-powered Coupé with no reserve.
