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BMW M3 Coupe (E30) 2.3 (220 Hp) Evolution
Overall Rating
BMW M3:
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986.
The initial model was available in a coupé body style, with a convertible body style made available soon after. M3 saloons were offered initially during the E36 and E90 generations. Since 2014, the coupé and convertible models have been rebranded as the 4 Series range, making the high-performance variant the M4. Variants of the 3 Series since then have seen the M3 produced as a saloon, until 2020, when the M3 was produced as an estate for the first time, alongside the saloon variant....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Coupe (E30) Overview:
BMW M3 (Coupe (E30)). With 240 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11 l/100km). Weighing only 1200 kg, it’s quite light. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.7 s). The top speed reaches 243 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.
2.3 (220 Hp) Evolution Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A highly potent and rev-happy engine, offering an exhilarating driving experience with strong acceleration for its time.
Fuel Economy
Respectable fuel economy for a high-performance sports car of its era, balancing power with reasonable consumption.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Iconic status and strong motorsport heritage
- • Superb handling and engaging driving dynamics
- • High-revving, characterful S14 engine
- • Appreciating classic car value
- • Timeless design and build quality
Cons:
- • High maintenance and parts costs, especially for M-specific components
- • Firm ride quality, not optimized for comfort
- • Limited modern safety features due to its age
- • High purchase price for well-maintained examples
- • Potential for rust in older, neglected models
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Coupe (E30): 1986 - 1989).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | M3 |
| Generation: | Coupe (E30) |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.3 (220 Hp) Evolution |
| Start of production: | 1988 |
| End of production: | 1990 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 4 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 220 Hp @ 6750 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 95.6 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 240 Nm @ 4750 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | S14B23 More details about the engine S14B23 |
| Engine displacement: | 2302 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.4 l |
| Coolant: | 11 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 93.4 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 84 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 11:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 11 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.2 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 8 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 243 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 5.5 kg/Hp, 183.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5 kg/Nm, 200 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1200 |
| Max. weight: | 1600 |
| Max load: | 400 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 420 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 70 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4345 mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1680 mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1370 mm [Same height.] |
| Wheelbase: | 2565 mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1424 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1445 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11.1 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 ZR16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Behind the wheel of the BMW M3. How does it handle on the road?