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E30 M3 Returns: A Fresh Design Brings BMW’s Classic into the Future

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BMW’s Legendary E30 M3
Only about 5,000 units were produced
Revived with stunning modern visuals

BMW E30 M3 concept design / Instagram@ _two_person

The BMW M3 has long been synonymous with performance and precision. First introduced in 1986, the E30 M3 remains one of the most iconic models in BMW’s history. A true motorsport legend, the E30 M3 was the first M3 to be produced specifically as a racing vehicle, setting the foundation for the M3’s enduring legacy in both the racing world and on the streets. Its engineering prowess and striking design blend have kept the E30 M3 a favorite among car enthusiasts for decades.

The E30 M3 was built on the second-generation E30 3 Series and was produced to meet regulations for the German Touring Car Championship (DTM), which required at least 5,000 mass-produced units for eligibility. With its compact, aggressive stance, the car measured 4,345 mm (171 inches) in length, 1,680 mm (66.1 inches) in width, and 1,370 mm (53.9 inches) in height. Its wheelbase stretched to 2,562 mm (100.9 inches), and it was primarily produced as a coupe. Thanks to the E30 M3’s success on the track, it remains a beloved model in BMW’s history, both for its performance and its role in shaping the M3 name.

1st Generation BMW E30 M3 / performance-driven
BMW 2nd Generation 3 Series / autovercity

Impressive performance for its era
Based on the 2nd generation E30

Under the hood, the E30 M3 was powered by a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission. This combination produced 194 horsepower and 23.5 kg.m (168 lb-ft) of torque, propelling the car to a top speed of 255 km/h (158.5 mph) and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.9 seconds. The racing version of the E30 M3 featured a more powerful engine, pushing output up to 300 horsepower for even greater performance on the track.

Based on the second-generation E30 resembles the round headlights, the thin grille running between them, and even the small kidney grille that is BMW’s signature. However, the shape of the C-pillar has been changed, and the trunk has been shortened slightly. In addition, the front and rear fenders have been extended to accommodate the new suspension and broader track made for racing.

BMW E30 M3 concept design / Instagram _two_person
BMW E30 M3 concept design / Instagram _two_person

A classic reborn
Rendering by a South Korean design student

Recently, a new rendering of the E30 M3, designed with modern sensibilities, has taken the automotive world by storm. Even more surprising is that this redesign wasn’t created by BMW itself but by IHN LEE, a design student from the South Korea National University of Arts. Inspired by BMW’s Neue Klasse design language, IHN LEE has brought the E30 M3 into the 21st century while staying true to its roots.

Like the existing E30 M3, it has four round headlights, which have been changed to LED type. A much larger and more aggressive grille and air intake are noticeable. The small kidney grille, the signature of the E30 M3, is also not missed. As for the side of the vehicle, unlike the existing smooth design, there is an arch and a curved appearance, and the A and B pillars are thinner.

BMW E30 M3 concept design / Instagram _two_person
BMW E30 M3 convertible concept design Instagram _two_person

Inspired by Neue Klasse, both coupe and convertible forms

The rear has a spoiler that considers aerodynamics as before, and the thick rectangular tail lights are designed in a thin LED shape like the Neue Klasse series. The newly designed E30 M3 has been evaluated as having perfectly recreated the vehicle’s appearance and was an icon of 1980s racing cars while appropriately blending modern sensibility.

BMW has announced that all future models will adopt the Neue Klasse design language, regardless of powertrain type. While the E30 M3 won’t return to its first-generation form, it’s clear that the brand’s new design direction influences the car’s redesign. IHN LEE has also envisioned a convertible version of the E30 M3, further expanding on the car’s appeal and modern sensibilities. The result is a breathtaking fusion of the past and future, ensuring that the E30 M3’s legendary status remains secure for generations to come.

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