1986 BMW M3 Coupe (E30) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the BMW M3 Coupe (E30) ranges from 1165 kg to 1200 kg (approximately 2568 to 2646 lbs), with a maximum weight between 1540 kg and 1600 kg (around 3397 to 3527 lbs). The relatively light curb weight contributes to the car’s excellent handling characteristics and acceleration, while the maximum weight reflects the total capacity including passengers and cargo, ensuring safety and performance balance.

The luggage capacity of the BMW M3 Coupe (E30) is 420 liters (approximately 14.8 cubic feet), which is quite generous for a sports coupe of its era. This trunk size accommodates typical luggage or grocery loads, making the vehicle practical for weekend trips or daily commuting despite its sporty focus.

Yes, the BMW M3 Coupe (E30) fits comfortably into a standard garage. With a length of 4345 mm (171 inches), width of 1680 mm (66.1 inches), and height of 1370 mm (53.9 inches), it is compact enough for typical residential garages, leaving ample clearance on width and height for easy parking and maneuvering.

The BMW M3 Coupe (E30) originally came with rim sizes of 7J x 15, 15, and 16 inches, paired with tire sizes such as 205/55 R15, 225/45 ZR16, and 205/55 VR15. These tire and rim configurations provide excellent grip and balance, complementing the vehicle's rear-wheel-drive layout for optimal handling, cornering stability, and road feedback, which are key to the M3’s driving experience.

The BMW M3 Coupe (E30) is based on the E30 3 Series platform but features slight dimensional upgrades tailored for performance. While the overall length of 4345 mm (171 inches) is similar to the base E30 models, the M3 has a wider and lower stance due to its sport suspension and flared wheel arches. These changes improve handling and visually differentiate the M3 as a dedicated high-performance variant over its predecessor 3 Series models.

Compared to contemporary sports coupes from the late 1980s, the BMW M3 Coupe (E30) tends to be compact and lightweight. For example, it is shorter and narrower than some rivals like the Porsche 944 but often weighs less, contributing to its nimble performance. Its luggage capacity of 420 liters is also competitive, offering more practicality than many sports cars of its time which typically prioritized performance over utility.

With a height of 1370 mm (53.9 inches), the BMW M3 Coupe (E30) has a low center of gravity which positively impacts its handling and stability during aggressive driving. This modest height also results in a coupe silhouette that's aerodynamic but may reduce headroom for taller passengers. However, the design strikes a balance between sporty aesthetics and driver comfort.

The curb weight range of 1165 to 1200 kg (2568 to 2646 lbs) for the BMW M3 Coupe (E30) is impressively light given its performance capabilities. This relatively low mass enhances acceleration, braking, and cornering performance. A lighter curb weight also aids in fuel efficiency and responsiveness, which were defining features of the E30 M3 that cemented its legacy as one of the most agile sports coupes of its time.

The M3 Coupe (E30)'s width of 1680 mm (66.1 inches) and length of 4345 mm (171 inches) make it quite manageable in tight city streets and parking spaces. Its compact footprint compared to larger sports cars and sedans allows for easier navigation through narrow roads and busy traffic, enhancing its practicality as a performance coupe that can be comfortably driven on a daily basis in urban settings.