BMW is continuing its 40 anniversary celebrations by launching an exclusive M3 Coupe Frozen Silver Edition model, limited to just 100 cars.

The eye-catching coupe, which will cost £58,720, is powered by a 420bhp V8 engine with a seven-speed M DCT transmission and variable M differential.

Suspension has been lowered by 10mm and features three-stage Electronic Damper Control, 19-inch light alloy wheels and a revised DSC+ system.

But it is the combination of Frozen Silver metallic paint, not seen before on any BMW, matt black alloy wheels, dark chrome exhaust, side gills and kidney surrounds, and jet black bonnet intakes that set the car apart.

Inside there is black leather with contrast stitching and Palladium leather armrests and inserts, while the steering wheel is sheathed in Alcantara and comes complete with an M3 chequered flag motif.

Carbon fibre is sprinkled around the cabin, the handbrake has M Power stitched onto it and there is a plaque to highlight the limited edition nature of the car.

On sale from June 1, the Frozen Silver model adds nearly £9,000 of equipment to a standard M3, for a cost of £4,000.

BMW says the UK remains an important market for its M products and that despite the tough economic climate some 789 M3 Coupes were sold here in 2011, a 10 per cent increase over the previous year.