1989 BMW M3 Johnny Cecotto Edition

VIN WBSAK05080AE40576

event_available Jul 3, 2026
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What’s special about this listing

This 1989 BMW M3 Johnny Cecotto Edition represents one of the most celebrated homologation specials ever produced. According to the seller, this example is finished in Misano Red over the distinctive Silver M-Technic cloth interior, shows approximately 84,117 miles (135,372 kilometers), and remains in highly original condition, retaining the character and specification that made the Cecotto Edition so desirable. The Johnny Cecotto Edition was introduced in 1989 to commemorate BMW Motorsport driver Johnny Cecotto and his touring car victories, with only 480 examples produced for the European market alongside 25 Ravaglia Editions, making it one of the rarest iterations of the legendary E30 M3.

Key characteristics that make this vehicle special:

  • Limited production: One of just 480 Johnny Cecotto Editions built, celebrating the celebrated BMW Motorsport driver's DTM success
  • Factory Electronic Damper Control (EDC): Advanced adjustable suspension technology that separated the Cecotto Edition from standard production M3s
  • European-market specification: 215-horsepower S14 2.3-liter inline-four with individual throttle bodies and close-ratio Getrag 5-speed manual
  • Iconic color combination: Misano Red exterior paired with the distinctive Silver M-Technic cloth interior, one of the most recognizable E30 M3 combinations
  • Documented provenance: Original German registration documents, BMW Mobile Tradition Certificate, factory option information, and extensive ownership records
  • Well-preserved originality: Described by the seller as retaining its factory specification and character, unlike many European-market examples that have lost originality over the years

Power comes from BMW Motorsport's legendary S14 2.3-liter dual overhead cam inline-four, producing approximately 215 horsepower in European specification. According to the seller, this example features a close-ratio Getrag 5-speed transmission, rear-wheel-drive chassis dynamics, and factory equipment including an electric sunroof, On-Board Computer II, BMW Professional radio with factory sound system, headlight washers, and green-tinted glass. The addition of factory EDC was remarkably advanced for its era and remains a defining feature of the Cecotto Edition.

The car's history is as compelling as its specification. According to the seller, it remained in Europe before being imported to the United States in 2014, and comes with importation documentation, registration records, original German registration documents, and a BMW Mobile Tradition Certificate. The BMW M3 Johnny Cecotto Edition market has seen strong collector interest, with recent sales ranging from approximately $60,000 to over $245,000 depending on condition and provenance. As a documented, original-specification example of one of BMW's most iconic limited-production M cars, this Cecotto Edition represents a significant opportunity for enthusiasts and collectors of investment-grade homologation specials.

Specs

Details about this vehicle - decoded from the VIN & CLASSIC.COM curators. Contact the seller for specifics about this listing.

Year
1989
Make
BMW
Model Family
3 Series
Model Generation
E30
Model Variant
M3
Model Trim
Johnny Cecotto Edition
VIN
WBSAK05080AE40576
Mileage
84,116 mi
Originality
Original & Highly Original
Engine
2.3L I4 (S14)
Transmission
Manual
Drive Type
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)
Vehicle Type
Automobile
Body Style
Coupe
Driver Side
LHD
Doors
2 Doors
Color Group (Ext)
Red
Color Group (Int)
Gray

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Vehicle History

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About this Seller

Enthusiast Auto Group (EAG)

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house Cincinnati, OH

As our name infers, we are BMW enthusiasts who have transformed our passion for these cars into our career. Our combined experience allows us to focus on specialized processes than ensure the preservation of models that donned our bedroom wall. The community and clients continue to propel us to enhance every step of the way to get you into your specific EAG BMW. Experts in practice and Enthusiasts in the field. We look forward to indulging with you!

For Sale
Historical Listings
Joined
2025
Vehicle information is provided by the seller or other third parties; CLASSIC.COM is not responsible for the accuracy of such information.