2016 BMW M3 30 Jahre With Only Three Miles on the Odo Is a Modern Time Capsule

The non-facelifted 2015 – 2017 M3 (F80) remains a BMW fan favorite thanks to the more rounded angel eyes. The mid-cycle update introduced a meaner look, but the daytime-running lights' slightly flat top became half a circle. That didn't sit well with everyone, even though the refresh was done in good taste.

But probably the best thing about the OG M3 (F80) is that the Bavarians launched the "30 Jahre M3" limited edition as a tribute to the successful model's three-decade existence. In the mid-80s, BMW provided drivers with cars that made almost anyone fall in love with the brand. Vehicles like the M3 (E30) epitomized fun and superior driving dynamics.

Back in 2016, the vehicle had a starting price of $83,250 when equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. Those who wanted the dual-clutch transmission had to come up with an extra $2,900. BMW didn't change anything important. It was an M3 Competition (F80) with several distinct add-ons that set the limited-edition units apart from the "normal" high-performance sedan.

That translated into a maximum power output of 444 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle reached 60 mph in 3.8 seconds when power was administered by the DCT and in 4.0 seconds when the driver had to do all the shifting.

Customers of the 500 models knew their M3 (F80) was special because it debuted with a unique color known as Macao Blue Metallic. However, buyers could spec their units with their preferred paint job. The M3 "30 Jahre M3" also came with some extra carbon fiber tidbits, black-and-blue upholstery, a dedicated logo found on the dash and front door sills, the model designation embroidered into the headrests, and a "1 of 500" painted plaque above the glove box.

Someone bought this special M3 and put it away for over seven years. It's a smart spec, too! They went with the special color that appeared thanks to BMW's early M3 (E30) Sport Evo units. Inside, the sedan boasts the optional "panda" configuration. That's the black and Silverstone white combo with color-matching contrast stitching. It was an option. This particular unit was also "future-proofed" because the customer chose the automatic transmission.

The most impressive thing about this model is that it has only three miles (five kilometers) on the odometer. The computer might not have even recorded one engine hour.

However, the asking price and the location of this M3 30 Jahre might be slightly problematic. The selling party is asking for €118,500 ($130,404), and the vehicle is currently in Germany. It being a Euro-spec and not 25 years old means Americans might have a hard time importing the special BMW.

Still, federalizing is an option. It'll cost a pretty penny, but it can be done. However, if you don't want to put up with all that hassle, you could get it only for "show or display." That only requires permission from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The latest List of Nonconforming Vehicles Decided To Be Eligible for Importation is also worth checking. The NHTSA and the Department of Transportation (DOT) could show some clemency for the Euro-spec M3 30 Jahre.

The good news is that the seller (which just so happens to be an authorized BMW service partner) is willing to negotiate. If you want it, may the odds be ever in your favor!

Whatever you decide, this is an important car for BMW and an integral part of the iconic brand's history. Given the tendency to electrify everything, this M3 could become even more valuable in the future. Still, it remains a risky bet because it doesn't have much going for it apart from the aesthetic upgrades.

But many millennials consider 2016 to be a great year. Based on what those who are in their 30s say on various platforms, 2016 is widely regarded as one of the best recent periods. Down the line, that could translate into economic opportunities for people who are holding onto stuff that can appreciate as the clock keeps ticking. You never know what people who become a bit more financially stable might desire.