1995 BMW M3 E36 Lightweight Coupe

The BMW E36 M3 Lightweight was sold exclusively in the United States. Introduced in 1995, it was intended to be a homologation version that would allow racing teams to compete in sports-car racing. BMW proceeded to build approximately 100 examples, but since they never released how many they actually built, it is estimated that 125 were constructed. Adhering to its 'lightweight' nomenclature, the BME M3 Lightweight was devoid of a radio, air conditioning system, leather seats, a sunroof, or a tool kit. The doors were made of lightweight aluminum skins, the trunk area had only carpet on the floor, and there was no hood (bonnet) insulation blanket. There was special carpeting and thinner under-body insulation.

With these lightwegith measures in place, approximately 200 lbs (91 kg) was reduced compared to the regular M3.

Mechanical changes included 17-inch wheels with a 7.5-inch width at the front and 8.5 inches at the rear. The top speed limiter was removed, a shorter differential ratio was installed (3.23 compared to 3.15), and shorter suspension springs from the European-specification M3.

Before each M3 Lightweight was sold, they were sent to Prototype Technology Group Racing in Virginia for final preparation, which included the 'trunk kit' and the addition of Motorsport flag decals to the front and rear. In the trunk (boot) was a 'trunk kit' with a dual-pickup oil pump, front strut bar, lower cross-brace, spacer blocks to raise the rear wing and an adjustable front splitter. Each new owner was required to sign a 1-page legal document acknowledging that any installation of 'trunk kit' items voided the new car warranty.


The M3 Lightweight was solely finished in 'Alpine White' and wore Motorsports flag decals on the left front and right rear corners of the car. In the back was a fixed wing on the trunklid, and there were 'BMW Motorsport International' badges on the side moulding and dash.

This particular BMW M3 Lightweight is one of ten pre-production examples brought to the United States for competition use. It was fitted with GT spoilers, underbody bracing, strut brace, and dual pickup oil sump. The car was first registered in Illinois during the summer of 1995 and was subsequently used in club racing.

This BMW M3 Lightweight has 26,683 miles on its odometer.

Additional track-specific upgrades include a bolt-in roll cage, racing bucket, Momo steering wheel, and fire suppression system.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2024