BMW E30 M3 Johnny Cecotto Edition 1989
If we consider that today a BMW E30 M3 is in itself exclusive, then how could we classify an E30 M3 Johnny Cecotto Edition? A true rarity of the first-series M3 that is, at the same time, one of the most desired and powerful E30 ever made.
With just 480 units produced between April 1989 and December 1990, this limited edition was manufactured by to celebrate the sheer number of victories achieved by official BMW driver Johnny Cecotto in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft.
First introduced at the 1985 Frankfurt Motor Show, the E30 M3 is the BMW Motorsport-developed version of the E30 3 Series. Its 2302 ci S14 twin-overhead cam four-valve-per-cylinder four-cylinder engine is a further development of the M10 unit and was chosen for its compact dimensions. It delivered 200 hp at 6750 rpm, while the North American version used the same engine but equipped with twin in-line catalytic converters producing 195 hp.
Two different Getrag 265 five-speed manual gearboxes were used: one with the legendary “dogleg” selector for the European market and the other with the classic “H” scheme for North America and Japan. Continuing the lineage of all true sports cars, the wheel drive is rear.
The chassis is based on the basic design of the E30 3 Series with independent suspensions but has been thoroughly reworked by BMW Motorsport. The bodywork, meanwhile, was remodeled although it shares some panels with other 3 Series models.
In the eighties, BMW competed and won in various Touring categories around the world. Its highest point came in 1987 when Italian Roberto Ravaglia won the drivers’ title in the World Touring Car Championship with an M3, at the same time that Belgian Eric van de Poele won the DTM tournament.
This led to the creation of seven special editions of the E30 M3, with power ratings ranging from 195 hp to 235 hp. Three were homologation specials: Evolution I, Evolution II and Sport Evolution. The remaining four were based on regular production models, but with certain special features. These editions were: Tour de Corse, Europa Meister 88, Roberto Ravaglia and the one we present today: Johnny Cecotto.
This model introduced the 215 hp version of the catalyst-equipped 2.3-liter S14 engine. The power increase was obtained by reprogramming the Bosch Digital electronic control unit. It was offered in three different body colors: Misano Red, Macao Blue or Nogaro Silver metallic. M3 Evolution II front and rear spoilers were fitted, along with beautiful 7.5×16-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels
The interior was highlighted by sports seats upholstered in special anthracite-silver M-Technic cloth, with Bison leather reinforcements. Black Bison leather, Nappa Black leather or Nappa Silver leather were offered as options. The catalog was completed with unique items such as door sill plates with an “M3” color badge, an “M” driver footrest, illuminated gear selector knob, green tinted windshield strip, power windows, internal headlight adjustment, on-board computer and a plaque on the center console with Johnny Cecotto’s signature and the unique number of each car.
-This 1989 M3 Johnny Cecotto Edition is 100% original, with only 75.407 real kilometers.
-Obsessive maintenance from the first day of use.
-All replaced mechanical and aesthetic elements are original BMW.
-Due to the hot climate in this region, electric fans were incorporated to optimize engine performance.
-The exhaust system was replaced.
-The clutch slave cylinder was replaced.
-Engine and transmission mounts were replaced.
-4 new Dunlop Direzza ZIII SL tires fitted.
-Rear shock absorbers were replaced.
-All decorative stripes were replaced.
-The seat´s upholstery was damaged by cigarettes. After an intense search, a roll of original cloth was obtained in Germany, which was placed respecting the factory sewing method. This maintains the perfect originality of the car.
Adrián Vernazza.-