by Anniversary of an iconic model
Forty years after the original BMW E30 M3 transformed from a homologation version for touring car racing into a permanent symbol of automotive culture, the celebration takes a smaller form. The classic BMW sports model receives a Lego treatment, and the result will appear in the Speed Champions lineup later this year.
Collaboration of designers
Lego designers recently visited BMW headquarters in Germany, where they worked together with the automaker’s design team to best recreate the E30 M3. The model will join the Lego Speed Champions series, which already includes the BMW M4 GT3 and the BMW M Hybrid V8 LMDh prototype.
According to Will Thorogood, design lead for new business at Lego Group, his team aimed to recreate in brick form many of the most important details of the E30 M3. For example, Lego will use two tiny forks to replicate the car’s signature kidney grilles.
Teasers and final design
Several teaser images hint at what the model will look like, but these are only mock-ups, and the final design may differ slightly. In addition to finding the best way to recreate the E30 in brick form, Lego also collaborated with BMW designers to create a special livery for the model.
Livery and details
Shown on a full-size E30 M3, the livery combines elements of black, red, blue, and white and includes large ’40’ stickers on the doors. The car also features gold wheels, which will likely be added to the model.
“The livery visually captures the layered block construction inherent to LEGO, while referencing BMW M Motorsport racing liveries of the past and present through a bold diagonal scheme running across the entire car,” said Michael Scully, head of BMW M design. “Adding to the high-contrast layout, the large number 40 on the hood marks the significant anniversary of the M3 production car in a graphic language that again draws inspiration from LEGO’s geometric aesthetic.”
Release date and price
The Speed Champions E30 M3 will go on sale on August 1 directly through Lego and regular third-party retailers. The price will be $29.99 in the US and €27.99 in Europe.
This release highlights how Lego continues to honor automotive heritage by transforming iconic models into affordable collectible sets. The E30 M3 remains one of the most beloved cars among enthusiasts, and its appearance in the Speed Champions series will not only attract attention from brand fans but also remind us of the importance of this model in motorsport history. The collaboration with BMW M adds authenticity, and the celebration of the 40th anniversary makes the set especially significant for collectors.
