For over thirty years, the German compact sports sedan has been defined by the BMW M3. It has come to represent everything that a small and thrilling performance car should be and, while it has grown in size over the years, the latest G80 model still has the spirit of the original. It all started in the late '80s when BMW needed a homologation model for its DTM racer and has since become a great success for the company.

The first model is considered to be highly collectible, with people willing to part with large sums of money for the privilege of ownership. Galpin Auto Sports recently had the chance to get up close and personal with a stunning example of the E30 M3, which was sent in for some light restoration work. Judging by the way it presents, this might just be the best example we've ever seen.

Already a superb-looking machine, the California-based repair shop admits the M3 didn't need much work at all. "It was pretty much a perfect vehicle," says the presenter in the video. However, the owner wasn't satisfied and had the legendary BMW sent in for paint and bodywork to bring it back to showroom condition. Resplendent in Diamond Black Metallic, this 1990 model boasts what appears to be a Natur-colored leather interior.

Unlike later models which utilized inline-sixes and V8s, the original M3 was equipped with a 2.3-liter inline-four engine. With 192 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque up for grabs, this touring car for the road was capable of hitting 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds before topping out at 149 mph.

Impressive it may be, but the E30 M3 was about so much more than just straight-line speed. A five-speed manual gearbox was the only transmission choice and, along with the extensive aerodynamic work and bespoke suspension and braking system, enhanced the thrilling driving experience.

In typical '80s BMW fashion, the E30 M3 exudes restrained menace and looks superb, courtesy of the M body kit and cross-spoke wheels. Interestingly, European models featured a dog-leg shift pattern and slightly more power. Not only is the original M3 credited with sparking a long-lasting dynasty of performance BMWs, but it also kicked off the performance craze between the Germans.

While the third-generation E46 is still considered the best of the bunch amongst enthusiasts, none of the E30's successors could live up to the visceral performance afforded by the original. Over the years, the M3 has turned into a far larger (and plusher) car and many agree that the M2 is the spiritual replacement for the first-gen M3. Once the masters of understated performance and class, the E30 M3 truly does highlight how aggressive and, frankly, ostentatious BMW's design language has become.