In the late 1980s, two sports cars reigned supreme: the BMW E30 M3 and the Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 Club Sport.
Built as a homologation special, the M3 debuted in 1986. It was designed to dominate touring car championships around the globe. The E30 M3 quickly became a symbol of BMW’s engineering prowess, earning its place as one of the most iconic and aesthetically pleasing BMWs ever made.
It is powered by a 2.3-liter S14 four-cylinder engine producing 215 horsepower, revving past 7,000 RPM. This power is delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed dog-leg gearbox, a layout designed for optimal performance. Weighing just 1,200 kg, the M3 feels light and nimble, with a balanced chassis that’s timeless in its responsiveness.
The 911 Carrera 3.2 Club Sport arrived in 1987 as Porsche’s answer to a lightweight, driver-focused 911. Though it lacks the “RS” badge, it embodies much of what defines Porsche’s iconic RS models. The Club Sport is a rare gem with fewer than 350 units produced, including only 53 for the UK market.
This special edition shed 50 kg by omitting luxuries like the sunroof, air conditioning, rear seats, and sound deadening. Powered by a blueprinted 3.2-liter flat-six engine, it officially matched the standard Carrera’s 231 horsepower, though many believe it delivered over 240. The car also featured Bilstein dampers, a short-shift gear lever, and a limited-slip differential, creating a more focused driving experience.
These icons are revered decades later, but how do they compare today? Check out this video from The Intercooler on YouTube, which compares these two 80s sports cars on the road.
