M3 E30 Johnny Cecotto

The pedigree of the original E30 M3 is obvious all the way from its race-bred four cylinder motor (designed to rev past 9000 RPM in race form) and dog-leg five-speed gearbox to those wheel arch blisters, designed, not to look cool on the Kings Road, but to accept slick tyres of up to 10in in width. The E30 M3 was the first purpose built saloon produced as a racing homologation special by BMW's Motorsport division. Introduced in 1986 as a road car, it dominated Touring Car racing throughout the World taking countless championships including the prestigious German, Australian and British titles, not to mention the World Touring Car Championship in 1987 and in the process quietly becoming one of the most legendary BMWs ever.

To celebrate the success of their factory driver, Johnny Cecotto, BMW produced a special edition of the M3 in 1989 for the European market. The car featured the new 2.3-litre S14 engine - capable of 215 bhp, the M3 Evolution II front and rear spoilers, an illuminated gear knob, 'M3' door sill plates and a plaque on the centre console. The car was available in 3 colours; Macao Blue Metallic, Misano Red and Nogaro Silver whilst different trim options were available for the interior. The UK market received the E30 M3 'Roberto Ravaglia' edition, which in essence was the same as the Cecotto model, save for the signature on the numbered plaque on the centre console. In total, BMW produced a combined number of 505 cars, 480 being Cecotto and 25 being Ravaglia special editions.