Cult Classics: BMW E36 M3

Back when BMW’s were famed for their precision and purity, the E36 M3 was born, but it would have a hard time getting out from the shadow of previous generations.

It was the early nineties, a time when a car like this was built to ‘drive’, nothing more, nothing less. There were no techy adornments or touchscreen dashboards here, just a mechanical masterpiece that kept things simple, perfectly balancing elements of race car and daily driver.

For anyone looking to treat themselves to one of these charming motors, this lack of modern technology makes them a dream to fix up and modify, not to mention the fact that there are countless examples out there for you to choose from. You’ll feel like a kid in a sweet shop checking out the selection available and you have the luxury of being able to wait until just the right one catches your eye.

Available as a coupe, convertible and sedan, a few other, rarer variations were soon introduced to the range over time including the M3 GT, EVO and sportier Lightweight models.

If you love 90s styling then you’ll love the E36 with its classic lines, ‘dolphin’ shape and low profile.

Nowadays, you’re sure to see plenty of these being taken out on track days, and with good reason. The E36 M3 is a great performance car that will blow you away on a circuit thanks to its shockingly nimble handling and lively personality.

For the price, you really can’t get a better M3 and the low output shouldn’t put you off. Instead, give this car a chance and you’re in for a truly exhilarating ride with more than a hint of aggression, just enough to bring a smile to the face of anyone in the driver’s seat, not just drifters.

Its rivals have all gone on to be costly collectibles, out of reach for most of us, so surely its only a matter of time before this BMW has its moment in the spotlight. To be safe, best pick up one of these cult classics now, tinker to your heart’s content and get yourself a proper little gem.

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