BMW's first production of the E30 M3 was in 1986. It had the S14 engine which is an inline 4cyl and not straight 6. Also the body has distinctive flares on the quarter panels, side skirts and has the 5-lug wheel pattern. The engine is a dead give away...also the the M-Badges could be bought and stuck on anywhere.
if the 325e (or ETA) was in good condition, i would probably buy it for no more than $1500USD (being that old and with rust probs $1000USD)
Like ilir said, it is the sports package (my friend owns an 86 eta with 3 spoke steering, sports seats, shifter, even has gloves

)