From a Humble BMW ’02 to a Bavarian Rocket

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Another BMW ’02?” But hold your horses, because this one isn’t just another ’02 with patina and a roundel. No, this is a masterclass in contrast. From a 1502 with more patina than paint, to a fully restored, OEM+ styled machine that looks like it rolled straight out of a Bavarian fever dream.

The owner? He’s not just a fan, he’s a full-blown BMW whisperer. Paul Gebbink restores classic Bimmers in his spare time. But pop the bonnet, and it becomes immediately clear: this one’s gone several steps beyond your average Sunday project.

Gone is the original engine. In its place? The legendary S14 engine from the BMW E30 M3. Yes, that engine. And not just any old lump pulled from a scrapyard This one’s been completely rebuilt with fresh internals by the wizards at MATS Performance. These are the same people who build race-spec E30 M3s that could probably lap the Nürburgring in 7 minutes. So yes, this thing is basically a bomb on wheels.

Before the engine even went in, the car was stripped down to a bare shell and rebuilt from the ground up. They even moved the engine further back in the bay to improve weight distribution. Because why not make your classic BMW handle like a modern track weapon?

Behind the custom 16” steel wheels wrapped in 225/45 Advan Neovas, you’ll find brakes from a Mini Cooper S. More than enough stopping power to rein in this Bavarian missile. And to make sure all that S14 fury actually makes it to the tarmac, the rear suspension has been swapped for one from a BMW E30 325ix.

Inside, it’s just as serious. A custom roll cage, a beautifully finished interior, and enough man-hours to make a Swiss watchmaker weep. Swap meets were raided, parts were hunted down, and the result is nothing short of spectacular.