M3 at 30: BMW Releases U.S. Pricing for 30th Anniversary Model

By Greg Fink - Car and Driver

Thirty years ago, BMW introduced the world to the M3. In celebration of this milestone, the German automaker recently announced the release of the limited-edition “30 Jahre M3” (German for “30 Years M3″). Now we know more about the 150 cars earmarked for our shores.

On sale this month, the 30 Jahre M3 will be available with your choice of a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Opting for the former will set bank accounts back $84,245, the latter $87,145.

All U.S.-bound 30 Jahre M3s wear a deep coat of Macao Blue paint, a color first seen on the E30 M3 Sport Evolution. Complementing the distinct hue are special 20-inch “star spoke” wheels, much like those found on the M4 GTS. Interior changes are equally minimal: 30 Jahre M3 logos are placed on the dash and doorsills, and they’re embroidered into the headrests of the two-tone seats.

Along with the visual kit, BMW fits the 30 Jahre M3 with its Competition package. As its name implies, the package helps the M3 better take down the competition. An adaptive suspension works to improve the sedan’s dynamic capabilities, while the standard 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight-six is massaged to produce 444 horsepower—up 19 over the standard car.

Like it or not, every 30 Jahre M3 that makes its way to the states also will include BMW’s Executive package (head-up display system, heated steering wheel, rearview camera, and other equipment), the Driver Assistance Plus package (blind-spot monitor, additional exterior cameras, and more), and LED headlights with automatic high-beams.