The E30-generation BMW M3 has become a hugely desirable collector’s car over the last decade but despite prices soaring, Manhart has decided to modify an E30 M3 in the pursuit of making it quicker and even more striking to look at.
In transforming this E30, Manhart started by ditching the original 2.3-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder and replaced it with the turbocharged 3.5-liter inline-six once used by an Alpina B7 S Turbo. In Alpina guise, this engine was originally capped at 330 hp and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque but seeking some added grunt, Manhart decided to modify both the turbocharger and intercooler so the car now delivers a mighty 405 hp and 479 lb-ft (650 Nm).
Coupled to the new engine is a five-speed manual transmission and a Drexler differential driving the rear wheels. The tuner hasn’t quoted any performance times for the car but given that a standard E30 M3 only weighs a touch over 2,500 lbs (~1,133 kg), we suspect the car could give a current M3 a run for its money.
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Beyond the engine, Manhart has fitted the car with a new exhaust system and has set out to ensure it brakes just as well as it accelerates. As such, it is rocking new four-piston Brembo calipers up front biting down on drilled 330 x 32 mm discs while found at the rear are the standard calipers with enlarged drilled discs. H&R coilovers have also been installed to drop the ride height and improve the corner-carving abilities of the car.
Rounding out the alterations are a variety of exterior and interior upgrades. For starters, the car is finished in a striking shade of matte dark green with red accents while also rolling on Manhart Concave One wheels measuring 19×8.5 at the front and 19×9.5 at the rear. Found in the cabin are seats clad in Cardinal Red, a three-spoke Momo sports steering wheel, a wooden gear knob, and a new digital display in place of one of the original air vents.
