BMW has revealed the limited edition BMW M3 30 Jahre Special Edition, which (you may well have picked up) marks the 30th anniversary of the M3 badge.

The first generation of the BMW M3, of course, was launched back in 1986.

So, what sets the BMW M3 30 Jahre Edition apart from the standard model? Well, for starters, it comes fitted with the German automaker's Competition Package, which includes an increase in peak output by 14 kW to 331 kW.

This model also features Adaptive M suspension, as well as new springs, dampers and stabilisers, modified characteristics of the three driving modes, a modified Active M differential on the rear axle, and an updated dynamic stability control function.

In addition, the special edition model boasts forged 20-inch M light-alloy wheels with a 666 M star spoke design and mixed tyres.

Fitted with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission as standard, the BMW M3 30 Jahre Edition sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 4,0 seconds, which is one-tenth faster than standard model.

In terms of styling, the special edition model can be had in either BMW Individual Frozen Silver or Macao Blue metallic paint, with black-chrome tailpipe trim for the M sports exhaust system and a variety of carbon-fibre exterior additions (from the front splitter to the mirror caps, rear diffuser and rear spoiler).

Of course, this rather special BMW M3 also features M gills bearing the "M3 30 Jahre" badge. This logo is repeated on the front doorsills, while the words "30 Jahre M3 1/500" are printed on the carbon-fibre interior trim of the instrument panel.

In addition, this special edition model features an unusually long standard specification list, which includes a 16-speaker surround-sound system, adaptive LED headlights, BMW M carbon ceramic brakes, a head-up display, and plenty more.

The special edition model will be limited to just 500 units worldwide, with BMW South Africa saying it is currently "under review" for the local market.

Update: BMW SA has confirmed that 30 units have been set aside for the South African market, from August production orders (and thus on dealer floors from October 2016).

Original article from Car