AUTOart Millennium
History
In order to celebrate the many competition victories of factory driver Johnny Cecotto, BMW produced a special version of the E30 M3 during 1989 that was named in his honor. This model introduced the 215-hp version of the catalyst-equipped 2.3-liter S14 motor, still rated at 170 lb/ft of torque (though now peaking at a slightly lower 4,600 rpm). This engine, which would become standardized on European-spec M3s beginiing in September of 1989, can be identified in the Cecotto by its body-color valve cover. All other mechanical aspects of the Cecotto edition are identical to the standard E30 M3.
The M3 Cecotto was offered in the same three exterior color choices as the E30 M3 Evolution II: Misano Red (236), Macao Blue metallic (250) or Nogaro Silver metallic (243). It also featured the M3 Evolution II front and rear spoilers, and is further distinguished by its thinner rear window glass and 7.5x16-inch wheels with unique black centers. However, unlike the Evolution II, the Cecotto does not include the front brake ducts in place of fog lights. On the inside, the standard BMW sport seats were trimmed in a special Anthracite or Silver M-Technic cloth with Bison leather bolsters. As an alternative, Black Bison leather, Black extended Nappa leather or Silver extended Nappa leather could be specified at extra cost. Additional special interior features included door sill plates with a color "M3" insignia, an illuminated shift knob and a plaque on the center console that displays the signature of Johnny Cecotto, as well as the exclusive number of each car in the series out of 505. In fact, only 480 Cecottos were built, the other 25 being nearly identical Ravaglia editions. M3 Cecotto editions were further equiped with the green-tinted windshield stripe, power windows, power sunroof, warning triangle + first aid kit, internal headlight aim adjustment and on-board computer II and as standard equipment, while all other features from the regular E30 M3 option list were available at extra cost.
The model
AUTOart did an outstanding job on this model. I prefer this one compared to minichamps version (E30 Sport Evolution). Captured every bit of details of the real car. It also has Johnny Cecotto's signature on the center console which I forgot to take picture of it. I apologize... my bad. The head/tail lights are really well done. No mounting posts visible and they are very realistic. The engine bay features some really nice stuff. Plumbed and wired and the fuse box actually has a clear cover. The front grill is perforated not textured. The badges are done with separate pieces which make it very appealing. I just don't like the protruding keyholes which I think can be found on most models. I just hope they make them separate piece just like the door handles. That would be nice and I honestly think that it will add more to the realism of the replica. Tires are well done with realistic thread pattern but not branded. The dark grey 16inch BBS rims are well defined. It's a pretty heavy replica and one of the few AUTOart models with metal chassis. Yes, this one has a metal chassis like the '67 and '68 mustang fastback, mercedes-benz 190e 2.5 16. The paint job is really excellent. Well done interior with red seat belts which I think is a really nice touch instead of the common black seatbelts. Enjoy the pics below, guys! Comments are much appreciated. Cheers!
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