WHAT IS IT?
The 1995 BMW E36 M3 was the successor to the low-production, high-strung, 4-cylinder E30 M3. With a 3.0 liter, 240 hp, naturally-aspirated straight six, it’s the car where arguably, the 3-Series M-car truly came into its own. For at least several generations of enthusiasts, this car personifies BMW Motorsports swagger—Dakar Yellow was the launch color for the E36 M3 and to say that the car is an icon is a significant understatement.
WHY THIS ONE HAS “BEST ONE ON THE PLANET” CHOPS
Most E36 M3s went through a period of time when they weren’t worth much. They suffered terribly from the 4th and 5th owner syndrome, falling into the hands of buyers who couldn’t afford to maintain them, yet somehow managed to afford all sorts of questionable mods. Original, unrestored in-the-wrapper E36 M3s are rare indeed. This one has just 29,000 miles, all recorded by a single owner, and it has no damage history. The spec is impeccable—5-speed manual transmission, of course (it’s a coupe), and black leather “Vader” BMW M-Sport seats. Flaws on the car are imperceptible. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better one. If there’s a better first-year, E36 M3 coupe in the launch colors of Dakar Yellow/Black, it likely belongs to BMW, or it’s tucked away in a collection, and we’ve yet to see it.
If there’s a better first-year, E36 M3 coupe in the launch colors of Dakar Yellow/Black, it’s likely belongs to BMW, or it’s tucked away in a collection, and we’ve yet to see it.