Build File · Restoration + M Swap · Wixom, MI
Build File · Restoration + M Swap · Wixom, MIE30 325i S52.
The drop-top E30 with an M3 heart. Restored, re-engineered, and set up to be driven, not parked.
S52
3.2L M inline-6
ZF 5MT
Manual gearbox
3.23 LSD
Z3 M differential
BBS LM
17-inch wheels
Wilwood
Big brake kit
The story.
Old shell, M heart
The E30 is the car that made BMW's reputation, and this one got the drivetrain that reputation deserved: the S52 3.2 liter six out of an E36 M3, backed by a ZF five-speed and a Z3 M Roadster 3.23 limited-slip.
The rest of the car was brought up to match. Wilwood brakes behind 17-inch BBS LMs, Ground Control coilovers over a braced and reinforced chassis, Mtech II aero outside, and a properly finished interior with the details done right, down to the custom cluster and AC Schnitzer pedals.
Build sheet.
Line by line
Engine & Drivetrain
- S52 3.2L inline-6 from an E36 M3
- ZF 5-speed manual
- M50 manifold conversion
- Castro Motorsport airbox · custom catback exhaust
- Z3M radiator with late-model expansion tank
- E34 oil pan
- Z3 M Roadster 3.23 LSD differential
- Wilwood big brake conversion · E28 master cylinder
Chassis & Suspension
- Ground Control coilovers
- OEM Z3 steering rack
- OEM E36 tie rods · Lettenform control arms
- Garagistic X-brace · Drift King front strut brace
- Rouge Engineering rear shock mounts
- ST sway bars
Exterior
- Mtech II aero package
- 17" BBS LM wheels
- Startec taillights · Euro heckblende
- CAtuned Motorsport door handles
Interior
- Mtech 2 steering wheel
- Custom Bav Resto cluster · 3-pod gauge cluster
- AC Schnitzer pedals
- Blaupunkt Bluetooth head unit · Kicker amplifier · JBL speakers
In frame.
From the shop floor
Got a classic that deserves this?
Restorations, M swaps, and resto-mod work, engineered and finished to the same standard.