BMW M Marks 40 Years of M3 as Electric Successor Prepares for U.S. Debut

BMW M is looking ahead to its electric future, but a new video takes a moment to honor the six generations that built the M3's reputation. The clip walks through each version, from the original E30 to today's G80, ending with the message "40 Jahre M3."

The E30 arrived in 1986 as a homologation special for touring-car racing, with a 200-horsepower four-cylinder in Europe and aggressive bodywork. Later E36 models introduced six-cylinder power and more refinement, while the E46 became a fan favorite with its 333-horsepower inline-six and six-speed manual.

The E9X generation switched to a naturally aspirated V8 with 414 horsepower, marking the last non-turbo M3.

Turbocharging came with the F80, which was sedan-only as coupes moved to the M4 lineup. The current G80 has drawn controversy over its large grille but offers a powerful S58 engine, an available manual, and optional all-wheel drive on Competition models.

The video's release aligns with the North American debut of the M Neue Klasse Concept, which previews the first electric M3. It features four individually controlled motors and M-specific technology, though power and range details remain undisclosed. The concept, unveiled at Le Mans in June, is now on display at the House of M in California this evening.