1987 BMW E30 M3 | Birmingham, Staffordshire

A 1987 BMW E30 M3, the road car BMW built so it could go touring-car racing. It is known for flared arches, a flatter rear screen and a raised boot lid, and for a high-revving 2.3-litre four-cylinder that rewards a driver who uses the revs. Through the late 1980s it became closely tied to touring-car and rally competition. This car is black with a black interior, a sober combination that lets the arches and rear spoiler carry the shape. It is a two-door with a compact, squat stance. It is left-hand drive: the driver sits on the kerb side and the front passenger steps out into the road, which also gives the car a continental look in shot. Its period identity suits late-1980s film and television, advertising and photography, where the arches and spoiler read clearly against a location. The black paintwork picks up light well for fashion and editorial shoots and music videos. At events it works as a display car with plenty to look at. It also makes a smart arrival car for a wedding or special occasion. The car is based in Birmingham, Staffordshire.