The factory Estoril Blue Metallic paint remains in excellent condition. Paint meter readings were taken of the car, and it appears that most of the exterior is original paint, likely with the exception of the driver’s side fender and part of the driver’s side hood. The paint in these areas matches the rest of the car excellently but does show higher on the meter. There is no evidence of any damage in the past to the car and it is very possible that this could simply be clearcoat rather than paint, but we felt it should be mentioned in the listing. Please see the included paint meter readings in the photo gallery for a better idea.

The rest of the exterior has consistent color and luster throughout the entirety of the car. There are a few very minor chips that come with the territory of original paint examples. These are nothing that we feel takes away from the overall outstanding presentation of the car, though. The body remains very straight with no issues to note. Shut lines and body gaps are all tight and consistent and appear as they should.

All the windows appear to be factory-correct with the appropriate BMW logos and the original factory security etchings still in place. The window trim and gaskets are all in excellent condition and are secure and well-aligned. The side rub strips are in excellent shape and the front and rear bumpers are well aligned and clean. The lower side skirts are in good condition. All the lights are clear, clean, and in excellent shape.

The factory wheels are clean, tidy, and free of any curb rash. The lugs show minimal if any wear, and the BMW roundel center caps retain excellent color and finish.

There are a few minor stone chips, largely relegated to the front of the vehicle. This is to be expected with the territory when discussing largely original paint examples and does not take away from the overall fantastic presentation of the car in the slightest.

The interior is in excellent and highly original condition. There are some very minor imperfections on the iconic "Vader" style seats, with some very light scratching in high-traffic areas on the driver’s side. The bolsters remain in great condition, and the seat surfaces and back are smooth and clear of any issues. The rear seats appear to have seen minimal if any use over the years. The tricolored stitching on the steering wheels remains tight and clean, with no pulls to note. The carpet is clean and tight with excellent color and fitment. The driver’s side door panel has a few minor faint but visible scuffs on the bottom edge. The parcel shelf carpet has faded a bit with age. The dash remains smooth, with excellent color and no signs of any of the issues that commonly plague these cars. Overall, the highly original interior presents exceptionally well.

During our brief testing, it appears that the interior’s mechanical condition aligns wonderfully with its fantastic cosmetic condition. All the gauges, switches, stalks, etc., work as they should with no issues to note. The pixels on the information center are all still present and remain fully legible, a common issue with these cars the next owner will not need to worry about!

The engine bay appears in an excellent, clean, and orderly manner. Given its overall tidiness, it appears to have always been professionally maintained. None of the hardware under the hood has noticeable surface rust or oxidation, and the proper stickers and decals are present where they should be. From an exterior perspective, it does not appear that there are any issues, past or present.

The trunk carpeting is clean, fits well and has good color. All the plastic trim is in place and shows good fitment and color as well. There is an aftermarket full sized spare tucked in the wheel well. The full fold-out tool set is present with all its correct pieces in place.

The underside is clean and dry, showing no signs of any issues, past or present.

The car starts quickly and runs well. It is quiet with no odd noises. The straight six has the trademark BMW turbine smoothness and power.

The transmission shifts easily into all the gears, and the clutch engages well. The throws are longer than found in modern performance cars, but it is still a wonderful gearbox to stir.

The car stops straight and quickly. There is some body roll but it is still a well-controlled and enjoyable performer with excellent ride quality.

The car wears Michelin Pilot Sports on all four corners and while they have plenty of tread and appear in good condition, the date codes show 2005 and they should be replaced before any extended use is carried out.

This M3 Evolution is a true pleasure to drive. You can instantly tell how well taken care of this example is, and it is just as evident when you get behind the wheel. All of the touch points are smooth and free of wear. The clutch is predictable with a good weight, the shifts are long but still enjoyable. The engine revs incredibly freely and has ample power especially when compared to its US-spec counterparts. The seating position is very BMW and the car’s small size makes it easy to place.