With the launch of the first-generation M3 in 1986, BMW M GmbH revolutionised the sporty mid-range segment, and since then, the German automaker has continuously refined its super-Three icon across five model generations. To mark the 30th anniversary of the M3 this year, BMW M has launched the exclusive M3 30 Jahre Edition.
The special edition builds on the standard M3’s Competition Package, which comprises an increase in engine output by 19bhp to 450bhp and Adaptive M suspension that has been comprehensively aligned to the increased performance. Other optimised features include new springs, dampers and stabilisers, modified characteristic curves of the three driving modes (Comfort, Sport and Sport+), as well as a correspondingly modified standard Active M differential on the rear axle and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).
Moreover, the edition model comes with forged 20-inch M light-alloy wheels with 666 M star-spoke design and mixed tyres (front 265/30 R20, rear 285/30 R20).
All of these measures lead to a noticeable increase in dynamic performance, which is reflected in the enhanced acceleration. The M3 30 Jahre Edition with the 7-speed M DCT gearbox sprints from zero to 100km/h in just 4 seconds, which is an academic 0.1 of a second faster than the series production model. 
However, the changes on this special M3 are not just technical, because it has also been given the BMW Individual treatment. As a result, it cuts a more dynamic figure than its standard siblings.
The striking BMW Individual Frozen Silver metallic paint accentuates the elegantly muscular form of the M3, in addition to the BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line with enhanced features that include a black chrome tailpipe trim for the M sports exhaust system as well as a variety of carbon fibre additions. These include a carbon fibre front splitter and trims, mirror caps, rear diffuser and a carbon fibre rear spoiler.
The edition model also features exclusively designed M gills in the front wings bearing the logo “M3 30 Jahre”.
Both the driver and front passenger in the M3 30 Jahre Edition can settle into the specific BMW M sports seats, whose skeletal design combines perfect support with distinct travel comfort over long-distances. Seatbelts with woven-in BMW M strips also enhance the sporty interior ambience. Other additions include the BMW M Performance Alcantara steering wheel and the BMW M Performance Alcantara gearlever.
The logo “M3 30 Jahre” on the front doorsills reminds owners of the BMW M icon’s unique history, while the wording “30 Jahre M3 1/30” on the carbon fibre trim of the instrument panel and stitching on the front headrests emphasises the exclusiveness of the car.
The M3 30 Jahre Edition also features an exclusive full leather Merino trim in bicolour Black/Fjord Blue with colour-matching contrast seams, effectively underscoring the anniversary model’s sporty and sophisticated character.
The BMW M3 30 Jahre Edition goes on sale in summer, this being exactly 30 years after the signing of the first contract for the purchase of an M3 – the original version of the car having made its debut at the 1985 Frankfurt Motor Show. 
Related Articles
