Final week, I introduced you my protection of BimmerFest Europe 2024, Europe’s premier BMW occasion, held at Raceway Venray within the Netherlands.
As a observe up, I made a decision to choose my prime three automobiles to share with you. In fact, that’s simpler stated than executed with so many wonderful BMWs on show, however I settled on one from the ’80s, one from the ’90s, and a recent machine with some traditional inspiration. Let’s get began…
Mark van den Burg’s E28 in Alpine White is a well-known sight at European automobile meets. At first look, it looks like a reasonably customary automobile, except for its lowered stance and recent paint job. Nevertheless, a better inspection reveals quite a few particulars solely true E28 followers would acknowledge.
Essentially the most hanging modification is the conversion to single headlights – one thing I’ve by no means seen earlier than. Mark executed this transformation himself, together with the grille adjustment, which I imagine concerned a 3D printer. Beneath the grille is an M5 entrance spoiler, and to create an excellent cleaner look, the license plate recess has been eliminated.
Underneath the hood lies an M54B30 engine – initially present in fashions just like the 2000 BMW X5 – paired with a 5-speed gearbox from an E46. For me, the standout function is the meticulous consideration to element within the engine bay. Mark crafted a completely new longer wiring harness so all cables might be neatly hid. The battery has been relocated to the trunk, and changed by a fuse field. Mark additionally used his 3D printer to create an airbox, which he then coated in carbon fiber for a smooth look.
The wheels are Schmidt TH Traces measuring 18×8-inch on the entrance and 18×9.5-inch on the rear. The rear wheels are tucked underneath newly welded wheel arches from an E24 6 Sequence. I’ve seen this executed with E30 arches, however the E24 arches are barely wider, permitting for broader rear wheels. With out being informed, I would by no means have observed these intricate particulars.
With GAZ Gold coilovers the automobile sits considerably decrease, however not earlier than customized spindle risers have been put in for higher geometry and improved dealing with.
Mark’s BMW E28 is a masterclass in subtlety and precision. Each modification, from the distinctive headlight conversion to the rigorously hid wiring, showcases a stage of workmanship that’s actually exceptional.
GP Merchandise from the Netherlands has delivered a masterpiece utilizing the legendary BMW E36 M3 GT as their inspiration. The E36 M3 GT holds an nearly legendary standing amongst BMW lovers. Launched in 1994 as a homologation mannequin for the FIA GT collection, solely 356 models have been produced, all painted British Racing Inexperienced. The BMW M3 GT featured a 3.0-liter inline-six engine delivering 295hp and 323Nm of torque.
Enter the G87 collection BMW M2, reimagined as a BMW M2 GT – a contemporary homage to the enduring E36 M3 GT. Portray the M2 in BRG was an apparent selection, however solely after inserting an order with Alpha-N, which equipped a carbon hood, carbon Model 4 fenders, and a spoiler. The grille was changed with an Alpha-N model, and on the rear you’ll discover a carbon diffuser, additionally from Alpha-N.
The transformation goes past aesthetics. The turbos are from Ladermanufaktur and are able to producing as much as 1,000hp. To optimize the brand new turbos, Akrapovič downpipes have been put in, channeling exhaust gases by an entire titanium exhaust system from the identical producer. To enhance engine respiratory, a CSF aluminum consumption manifold was put in, paired with a full carbon Eventuri air consumption package.
Final however not least, the wheels are from HRE’s classic collection, a transparent nod to the unique BMW Motorsport wheels that got here with the E36 M3 GT. The 528 FMR-Xs measure 20×10-inch on the entrance and 21×11-inch on the rear.
After which there’s the elephant within the room you in all probability already observed -the BMW M1000R. Crafted fully within the type of the BMW E36 M3 GT, it’s an ideal match for the M2. The spec checklist for this bike is nearly longer than that of the M2, primarily as a result of each plastic half has been changed with a carbon fiber equal. Whereas I’m not often a giant bike fan, I’d gladly make an exception for this machine.
GP Merchandise’ M2 GT and the matching M1000R are a surprising tribute to the legendary E36 M3 GT, combining fashionable efficiency with traditional BMW type in a manner that can captivate lovers for years to return.
At BimmerFest Europe 2024, Z Efficiency Wheels offered a Prime 10 gallery, and the automobile that actually stood out for me was this pink BMW E36, crafted by Limitless Auto from Weiden, Germany.
Let’s begin with what’s underneath the hood, the place the usual engine was changed with a V12. This M70 engine block was BMW’s first V12, initially discovered within the E31 850CSi.
The E36’s engine bay was spacious sufficient to accommodate the V12, and Limitless Auto managed to slot in twin BorgWarner S366 SX-E turbos as nicely. Thanks to those turbos, the engine hit spectacular numbers on the check bench: 1,012PS and 1182Nm of torque. What I really like most in regards to the set up is the symmetry achieved. It simply seems to be prefer it belongs there; nothing is misplaced.
The outside is dominated by a widebody package of Limitless Auto’s customized design. Usually, I’m not a fan of physique kits that protrude so abruptly, however right here it really works nicely with the sharper strains of the E36.
Contained in the wheel arches, you’ll discover a set of Carline CM6 wheels, extremely common within the BMW group. The wheels measure 19×10-inch on the entrance and 19×12-inch on the rear, with the rear tires being an enormous 305mm vast. Nonetheless, the proprietor talked about that they’ll go away black stripes in third gear. KW Suspensions equipped their V3 shocks with airbags, and H&R offered the stabilizer bars.
This automobile isn’t just a showstopper however a testomony to the unbelievable craftsmanship and innovation that Limitless Auto brings to the desk.
Jeroen Willemsen
Instagram: jaccojeroen
