1988 BMW M3 Base

Developed as a homologation model to satisfy Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) production requirements, the 1988 BMW E30 M3 remains one of the most iconic driver-focused cars of its era. Approximately 5,300 examples were produced for the North American market between 1987 and 1990. This particular example has undergone a no-expense-spared, ground-up restoration performed entirely in-house by Gaswerks Garage.


Starting with a solid chassis originally finished in Lachs Silver, this M3 was taken down to a bare shell and treated to a complete frame-off, nut-and-bolt restoration. Every component was removed, refinished, rebuilt, or replaced. The body was placed on a rotisserie and refinished in Satin Black to show-quality standards. All teardown, bodywork, paint, mechanical rebuilding, and final assembly were completed on-site by the Gaswerks Garage team. Every nut and bolt was replaced as part of the restoration, returning the car to OEM specification while preserving its motorsport pedigree.


Compared to the standard E30 3-Series, the M3 features unique body panels, sharing only the hood and roof with the base model. Signature flared fenders, model-specific bumpers, side skirts, and the fixed rear wing define its aggressive stance. Exterior details include a factory sunroof, integrated fog lights, black-finished mirrors, and dual exhaust outlets. The car sits on 17" BBS LM wheels wrapped in Continental ExtremeContact Sport tires, giving it a purposeful yet period-correct appearance.


The interior has been restored with M Technic cloth upholstery on the front sport seats, rear bench, and door panels. Features include a three-spoke M-Tech I steering wheel, VDO instrumentation, onboard computer, air conditioning, cruise control, AM/FM cassette stereo, and power windows, mirrors, and locks. All gauges and electronics are reported to function properly with no warning lights illuminated.


Power comes from a fully rebuilt S14 DOHC inline-four engine upgraded with a Turner Motorsports 2.5-liter stroker kit. The engine rebuild was performed in-house at Gaswerks Garage, maintaining factory engineering standards while enhancing displacement and performance. Power is delivered through a fully rebuilt 5-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential, also restored on-site.


The suspension system was completely rebuilt to OEM specification with new shocks and lowering springs, refreshed bushings, and renewed hardware throughout. The braking system was fully overhauled with new pads, rotors, and brake lines. Additional restoration items include a new radiator, new wiring and rubber components, replacement of all gaskets and lines, and a custom exhaust system.


This E30 M3 represents the highest level of restoration execution, with every phase of the project completed under one roof at Gaswerks Garage. The result is a properly sorted, mechanically fresh, and visually striking example of BMWs legendary homologation special restored from the ground up and built back to OEM standards with meticulous attention to detail.


A rare opportunity to acquire a comprehensively restored E30 M3 that embodies both factory authenticity and enthusiast-driven craftsmanship.