With just 34,621 kilometers on the odometer, the 1989 BMW M3 Cecotto Edition will be offered at RM Sotheby's auction in Monterey in August.
A little monster from the 80s
The original BMW M3 is a little terror, more fun to drive than almost any other car from the 80s, with the exception of homologation specials like the Renault Turbo 2. This little BMW bomb, based on the excellent E30 3 Series, was designed to meet the production requirement of 5,000 examples to allow its racing version to compete in the FIA โโGroup A category.
First presented to the public at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1985, the first generation of the M3 was produced from 1986. It continued to evolve into increasingly powerful versions until 1991, with nearly 18,000 units produced.
Success in showroom and racing
The M3 was a resounding success both on the racetrack and in the showroom. It won the Nรผrburgring 24 Hours almost every year from 1989 to 1994, as well as the Spa 24 Hours in 1987, 1988, 1990 and 1992. A true David against Goliath, it triumphed over competitors equipped with much larger or turbocharged engines. The M3 also won the World Touring Car Championship in 1987.
The BMW M3 Cecotto Edition
In 1989, BMW launched the M3 Cecotto Edition, named after Jonathan Cecotto, the Italian-Venezuelan driver who helped cement BMW's racing reputation. This special edition features BMW's S14 engine, a high-revving 2.3-liter inline-four producing around 215 hp at 6,750 rpm. It features a larger front splitter, a revised rear wing, and black 16-inch BBS mesh wheels.
An exceptional example at auction
A superb example of this street version will be offered for sale at RM Sotheby's annual sale during Monterey Car Week in Northern California. The auction will be held at the Monterey Conference Center on August 16-17.
The car in question, dating from 1989 (titled as a 1990 model), is number 363 of 480 examples built. It has 34,621 kilometers on the odometer. Its first owner bought it new from an official BMW dealer in Krefeld, Germany, before selling it to another German enthusiast. It was then registered in Italy in 2021. The current owner acquired the car in Italy and commissioned renowned Ferrari restorer Michelotto Automobili to restore it to its current condition.
A unique collector's item
Exported from Italy to Colorado in February 2023, this M3 has seen little use since. Highly original and meticulously preserved, it retains its original Misano Red paint and black leather interior. The car is accompanied by its original bill of sale, registration documents, and stamped warranty booklet with mileage records. It will be sold without reserve and could achieve up to $200,000 at auction.
For collectors and classic car enthusiasts, this BMW M3 Cecotto Edition represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history, perfectly preserved and ready to drive.
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