2021 Market Review - BMW M Series/Z3 1987-2008
M Series of all types maintain a strong following and values seem unaffected by world events. E30 M3s continue to climb but buyers should concentrate on quality which will govern future value.
E36 and E46 coupes enjoy growing demand and increased asking prices, with E46 Coupes occasionally reaching $80,000 but more realistic at $65-70.000. Convertibles aren’t as expensive.
M5s from the 1980s are scarce so an easier target might be the more sophisticated E39 V8 version. Prices for these have been soaring since 2017 but not so the complex E60 which is steady at under $50K.
Some early 1.9-litre Z3s have slipped below $10,000 but performance is dreary so a 2.8-litre Z3 at $20,000 or 3.0 Z4 at $30,000 will be more satisfying.
M3 E30 $112,500 [3]
M3 E36 $43,750 [13]
M3 E46 Coupe $73,950 [12]
M3 E46 Conv. $51,670 [6]
M5 E34/E39 $64,080 [5]
M5 E60 $43,050 [5]
Z3 1.9/2.0/2.2 $14,085 [22]
Z3 2.8 $20,980 [7]
Z4 $33,335 [24]
[*] = number of recorded sales
(Note: concours & special cars may demand more.)
Numbers from our 2021 European & British Value Guide.
| 2019 Market Review: BMW M Series/Z3 1987-2008
| Read next: Understanding our value guides
From Unique Cars #456, Aug 2021