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The original M3, based on BMW’s handsome E30 Three Series, arrived with flair and fanfare at the 1985 Frankfurt Auto Show. Here was a well-revised, well-sorted E30 built as a homologation special to challenge the likes of the Cosworth-engined Mercedes-Benz 190E W201 on the racetracks of Europe. While sharing its main components with the road-going Three Series, as per Group A regulations, the M3 was lighter and stiffer and quicker.

It took a Manhattan thrill ride in the ’90s to forge David Pan’s lifelong love of the E30 M3. And just look how that passion has evolved today…

With its retina-searing orange paint, thunderous 6.2-litre V8 pushing out 540hp, sorted chassis and hardcore interior, this full-on E30 M3 is a real thrill ride of a build.

The BMW M3 grew from a sublime saloon to dominate Touring Car racing for five years. John Barker compares the road and track versions.

Purchased in pieces and without an engine, this E30 M3 was rescued and rebuilt, and with a 2.4 S14 under the bonnet, it’s better than ever