1995 BMW M3 E36 Lightweight Coupe

A special track-oriented version of the E36-Series M3 was introduced to the American public in 1995. The M3 Lightweight had 225 lbs. less than the standard version. This was accomplished with aluminum doors and removing all sound deadeners and comfort equipment. The Lightweight version was also given stiffer springs, front and rear spoilers, and an individually selected engine.

The 2990cc DOHC inline six-cylinder engine had a Bosch Motornic Fuel Injection system and produced 240 horsepower. They had a five-speed manual gearbox and ventilated disc brakes at all four corners.

This example is one of the 126 M3 Lightweights built. It was completed in September of 1995 and was sent to The Prototype Technology Group in Winchester, Virginia, where the factory-supplied dual pickup oil pan, adjustable GT rear wing, front strut brace, and lower x-brace were installed.

It was then sent to Century Auto Sales in Greenville, South Carolina where is was purchased by local resident Mauro Romagnoli in February 1996. It remained in Mr. Romagnoli's care until 2003 when it was purchased by an associate of a BMW dealership in Ramsey, New Jersey, where it was freshened as needed over the next year.

The car currently has just 7,500 miles on its odometer.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2017