Pricing announced for BMW 30 years M3

BMW has secured a tiny allocation of 30 units out of 500 special cars being built for global consumption during the M3's 30th anniversary year.

Priced from $154,615, the 30 Years M3 will enter production from August, for local delivery later in the year. The car will be distinguishable by its BMW Individual colour, Macao Blue – a metallic colour that recalls an optional colour from the days of the original M3, which was introduced during the era of the E30 generation of 3 Series. Gloss black 'M' gills in the front quarter panels feature the model-name legend in German.

In addition, the anniversary model features sports seats trimmed in Merino leather upholstery in a combination of Black and Silverstone, with '30 Jahre M3' embroidered on the front headrests – 'Jahre' being Deutsch for 'Years'. Further visual cues include a carbon-fibre interior strip panel with laser-etched legend.

Mechanically, the anniversary edition is based on the M3 Competition, which means it's powered by the 331kW/550Nm TwinPower 3.0-litre inline six, for 0-100km/h acceleration in 4.0 seconds.

"We are genuinely excited to bring this special edition M3 to Australian enthusiasts," said BMW Australia MD, Marc Werner.

"With the Competition enhancements and such limited production, the 30 Years M3 combines incredible performance with immediate 'future classic' status.

"It not only celebrates three decades of the M3, but our allocation reinforces how much passion the BMW M product portfolio generates in this country."