M3 Sport Evolution
The ultimate E30 chapter. 2.5 litres and 238 PS.
1990 European Sport Evolution specification · Factory source
Every figure, in one place.
Performance
- Power
- 238 PS · 235 hp · 175 kW
- Torque
- 240 Nm
- 0–100 km/h
- 6.5 s
- Top speed
- 248 km/h
- Power-to-weight
- 5.04 kg/PS
Engine and drivetrain
- Engine
- S14 · Inline-four
- Displacement
- 2,467 cm³
- Induction
- Naturally aspirated
- Gearbox
- 5-speed Getrag dogleg manual
- Drivetrain
- Rear-wheel drive
- Powertrain
- Petrol
Body and dimensions
- Production
- 1989–1990
- Body
- Coupé
- Length
- 4,360 mm
- Width
- 1,680 mm
- Height
- 1,370 mm
- Wheelbase
- 2,562 mm
- Kerb weight
- 1,200 kg
- Fuel tank
- 70 L
Where this car ranks across all 93 cars in the catalogue.
Know before you buy
- Rust in sills, floors and arches is the main concern
- Parts are scarce; originality affects value
- Specialist servicing and valve adjustment required
Commonly reported ownership points, not a guarantee of faults. Always get an independent inspection.
The last turn of the original idea.
The Sport Evolution develops the original M3’s four-cylinder formula with greater displacement and adjustable aerodynamic elements. Compare its S14 revision with the ordinary E30 M3 before comparing output.
Exploring the E30’s special-edition development.
Inspect original version-specific components carefully.
The Sport Evolution has adjustable front and rear aero elements.
S14 · Inline-four
S14 in a 1988 E30 M3. Family reference; the Sport Evolution has a different displacement.
S14 · Petrol
The Sport Evolution increases the S14 four-cylinder to 2,467 cm³ and produces 238 PS with 240 Nm. Its adjustable front and rear aero elements mark a late development of the original M3 road car.
Naturally aspirated power
Air enters without a turbocharger. Cylinder capacity, valve timing and engine speed shape the engine’s torque delivery.
Rear-wheel drive
A five-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential send drive to the rear wheels. The Sport Evolution was a 600-car road series; its figures differ from earlier E30 M3 variants.
1990 European Sport Evolution specification
These figures describe the selected specification and engine output. PS is metric horsepower. Equipment, power ratings and homologation can differ between markets and model years. Open the BMW source to inspect the original factory information.
The full specification.
Ownership and buying
- Buying tips
- Inspect original version-specific components carefully.
- Maintenance notes
- Match the engine code and VIN to the correct BMW service schedule. Ask for dated maintenance records and an independent inspection before buying.
