Low-Mileage 1989 BMW M3 Brings E30 Motorsport Pedigree to AuctionA low-mileage 1989 BMW M3 is drawing collector interest as bidding continues, highlighting one of the most celebrated performance cars from BMW's modern era.The car is one of approximately 5,300 E30-generation M3 examples produced for the North American market between 1987 and 1990. It has remained registered in California since new and now shows 25,000 miles following the current owner's purchase in 2001.Finished in Cinnabar Red over black Nappa leather, the M3 represents the homologation-focused formula that helped define the model's reputation. Wider fenders, a rear spoiler, painted mirror caps, fog lights, twin exhaust outlets and a more aggressive body profile distinguish it from the standard E30 on which it was based.AdvertisementAdvertisementPower comes from BMW's 2.3-liter S14B23 inline-four engine, factory rated at 192 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with a Getrag five-speed manual transmission, sending power to the rear wheels through a limited-slip differential. That combination helped make the first-generation M3 a landmark driver's car and remains central to its appeal today.The chassis also received model-specific attention. The suspension uses a MacPherson strut front setup and semi-trailing arm rear design, with revisions for the M3 that included shorter, stiffer springs and a thicker rear anti-roll bar. The car rides on 15-inch basketweave wheels with BMW center caps, mounted with Yokohama Advan Fleva tires.Inside, the cabin retains a purposeful but refined layout. Manually adjustable front sport seats and a rear bench are upholstered in black Nappa leather. Equipment includes air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, power mirrors, power locks, an onboard computer, an AM/FM cassette stereo and a trunk-mounted CD changer.The driver faces an M Tech I steering wheel and VDO instrumentation, including a 160-mph speedometer, an 8,000-rpm tachometer and gauges for oil temperature, coolant temperature and fuel level. The car also features an electric sunroof, adding another desirable factory amenity.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe M3 is being offered on dealer consignment with a clean Carfax report and a California title. The report shows no accidents or other reported damage from its first entry in December 1995. The title is listed as a duplicate, and the car last passed a California emissions test in April 2026.With low mileage, long-term California registration and the core mechanical specification that made the E30 M3 famous, this 1989 example stands as a notable offering for enthusiasts seeking one of BMW's most iconic performance models.https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1989-bmw-m3-114/⚡️ Read the full article on MotoriousSign up for the Motorious Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.