1996 BMW M3 Evolution review from UK and Ireland

Small oil leak!! Now fixed.

Clutch hose (updated with steel braided hose)!

OK, lets get the facts and figures out the way:

321BHP, 0-60 in 5.3 seconds, top speed electronically limited 155mph, derestricted, capable of touching 174mph!! Average mpg 19-20 around town, 35mpg on a run.

Outstandingly fast in a straight line!! Makes 200hp cars seem slow in comparison (Type R's, Cupra's, 182's etc), however can be more than a handful on a wet/damp B-road. If you're too enthusiastic in these conditions, you'll end up sideways (you've been warned).

Ride is a bit on the harsh side, but needs to be given its performance.

Interior build quality is what you would expect of a car costing £38,000 new in 1996. The leather seats wear well, mine still like new!

Mine is also fitted with full Schnitzer kit and 18" Schnitzer split rim alloys, although my wife thinks it's a bit of a pimp mobile!

Heating system's a bit awkward to use (simple fan switches would have been sufficient), but the dual climate control works great!

The car pretty much drives like most BMW's I've had - smooth, quiet, refined. It's only when you floor it, that the Vanos opens up, giving you instant, pinned to the back of your seat acceleration. Not only that, it gives it you in all 6 gears!! 155mph comes up in no time, and is achieved effortlessly, showing how the car is capable of much more if unrestricted!

The Ultimate Driving Machine? You bet it is!!!