Lego releases iconic BMW E30 M3 for the model’s 40th anniversary
This year, the legendary BMW M3 celebrates its 40th anniversary, and soon fans around the world will be able to get a miniature version of the original E30 thanks to Lego.
Collaboration between Lego and BMW designers
Lego designers recently visited BMW headquarters in Germany, where together with the automaker’s design team they worked on the best possible recreation of the E30 M3. The model will be part of the Lego Speed Champions series, which already includes the BMW M4 GT3 and the BMW M Hybrid V8 LMDh prototype.
According to Will Thorogood, head of design for new business areas at the Lego Group, his team aimed to recreate many of the most important details of the E30 M3 in brick form. For example, Lego will use two small forks to recreate the car’s iconic kidney grilles.
Special racing design
Several teaser images hint at what the model will look like, but these are only mockups, and the final design may differ slightly. In addition to working on the best way to recreate the E30 in brick form, Lego also collaborated with BMW designers to create a special livery for the model.
Previously shown on a full-size E30 M3, the livery combines elements of black, red, blue, and white and includes large ’40’ decals on the doors. The car also sits on gold wheels, which will likely also be added to the model.
“The livery visually captures the layered brick construction inherent to LEGO, while also referencing BMW M Motorsport racing liveries of the past and present through a bold diagonal scheme running across the car,” said Michael Scully, head of design at BMW M. “Adding to the high-contrast layout, the large number 40 displayed on the hood marks the important anniversary of the M3 production car in a graphic language that again draws inspiration from LEGO’s geometric aesthetic.”
Release date and price
The new Lego Speed Champions model is expected to be available directly from Lego and from retailers starting August 1st. Its price will be $29.99 USD and €27.99 in Europe.
This set will be a great addition for collectors who appreciate both automotive heritage and Lego construction mastery. Given that the original E30 M3 is considered one of the most influential sports cars of its time, the release of such a model underscores its enduring popularity over the decades. Furthermore, the joint work of the two companies’ designers on a unique livery adds exclusivity to the model, which could make it particularly desirable for fans of both brands. It is worth noting that Lego Speed Champions continues to expand its lineup of iconic cars, and this release will undoubtedly attract the attention of both children and adult enthusiasts.