MUNICH: The iconic BMW M3 turns 30 this year and and to marks its anniversary, the German carmaker's M Division is releasing an exclusive special-edition model that's limited to 500 units worldwide.

Finished in Macao Blue metallic paint, the BMW M3 “30 Jahre M3” harks back to the first generation of car that left the production line in 1986, for which this colour shade was first offered.



A Competition Package is included as standard and comprises extensive powertrain and suspension modifications that pushes the engine output of the anniversary model up by 19hp to 450hp.

The current (fifth) generation BMW M3 made its international debut in 2014 as a four-door sedan, while the coupe and convertible models were designation the M4.

In all three body variants, a free-revving straight-six engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and 431hp provides the power.

Rigorously applied intelligent lightweight design elements include the extensive use of lightweight materials such as Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) and aluminium for many chassis and body components.

All of which has shaved around 80kg off the weight of its predecessor.

The M3 was the vehicle that revolutionised the mid-sized sports car segment, which was created initially to go racing first and then have it made available as a road-going version.

But first, BMW had sell 5,000 road-legal units of the car within 12 months, as per DTM's then Group A homologation regulations.

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