Germany vs Germany — 1988 vs 1988
| M3 Sport Evolution | M3 E30 Evolution II | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 238 hp | 220 hp |
| Torque | 177 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,467 cc | 2,467 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 6.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.9 sec | 14.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,646 lbs | 2,646 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,562 mm | 2,565 mm |
| Length | 4,360 mm | 4,345 mm |
| Units Produced | 600 | 500 |
| Original MSRP | $55,000 | $45,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $250,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1988 BMW M3 Sport Evolution brings higher top speed to the table, and the 1988 BMW M3 E30 Evolution II answers with quicker acceleration. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the BMW M3. The 1988 and 1988 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1988 BMW M3 Sport Evolution producing 238 hp and the 1988 BMW M3 E30 Evolution II delivering 220 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW M3 uses a Inline-4 displacing 2,467 cc, while the BMW M3 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 2,467 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1988 BMW M3 E30 Evolution II edges ahead at 6.1 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.