Although it looked pretty much like a standard E30 3-Series from a distance, the M3 shared only the bonnet with its less-exotic sibling.

The most obvious difference was the wider front and rear wings while only the most observant would have noticed the more steeply raked rear window and raised boot, changes made in the interests of aerodynamic efficiency.

Necessary chassis improvements included lowered and stiffened suspension, wider wheels, five-stud hubs, ventilated front brake discs, ABS and a limited-slip differential as standard.

The gearbox was a five-speed close-ratio Getrag.

In order to celebrate the many competition victories of factory driver Johnny Cecotto, BMW produced a special version of the E30 M3 during 1989 that was named in his honour.

This model introduced the 215-hp version of the catalyst-equipped 2.3-liter S14 motor, still rated at 170 lb/ft of torque (though now peaking at a slightly lower 4,600 rpm).

The M3 Cecotto featured the M3 Evolution II front and re...