Taifun-Converted E30 M3: Love It or Hate It?

A BMW E30 M3 with a Taifun headlight conversion? That’s sure to raise a few eyebrows. This bold build comes courtesy of the folks at Lowmolewerkz in Germany, who opted for this unique conversion. Taifun originally produced the kit, though they are no longer in business, making authentic kits hard to come by. Nowadays, many replicas are available.

Despite extensive online research, there’s surprisingly little information about this particular car, even though it’s been part of the scene for years. What I do know is that under the hood lies a six-cylinder engine from a newer E36 generation. This leads me to believe it’s not an original M3 but a converted E30. It’s similar to the Mercedes-Benz I posted about yesterday, where a standard car is transformed into a top-tier model. Here too, the conversion is done so meticulously that it’s hard to tell the difference at first glance.

The car also features a set of BBS RS wheels, painted in a sort of pistachio color to match the car. The wheel faces have been polished to a shiny finish after painting—a small detail with a big impact. Then there’s the suspension; an Air Lift Performance controller in the interior indicates an air ride system.

Gallery: Bimmerfest BMW Enthusiast’s Paradise

Bimmerfest is perhaps the largest car event in Europe exclusively for BMWs. It’s a permanent fixture on my calendar every year. This year was no exception, as I headed to Raceway Venray, Europe’s fastest 1/2 mile oval circuit, armed with an empty memory card and a fully charged camera. The unique location, while thrilling, does demand a pair of good running shoes since you spend half the time standing on the banked track.

As always, certain paddocks were reserved for specific themes. This year featured areas dedicated to Alpina, classics, and a top 10 selected by Z-Performance wheels. Additionally, there’s always space for various BMW clubs, with MFlight likely being the largest. Most members of this club hail from America but are stationed at a US base just across the border in Germany.

A standout car for me was the Twin Turbo V12 E36, which I’ve already posted separately. Another highlight was the E23 7 Series at the H&R booth, complete with a humorous “Arg Teuer” sticker mimicking the Tag Heuer logo. As you can tell, I have a soft spot for the older models. Yet, the M3 Touring, one of BMW’s newer models, also caught my eye and, yes, even with those large kidney grilles.

A Vision in Mint Green: BMW M3 G81 Touring

If you could choose, which BMW Individual color would you order for your new BMW?

JP Kraemer had a clear vision for his BMW M3 G81 Touring, and he opted for a striking mint green. On his YouTube channel, you can follow the journey from the grand unveiling at BMW Welt to the present day. If have seen all the videos but this was my first encounter with the car in the flesh.

The car was parked right in front of JP Performance’s headquarters in Dortmund, about a two-hour drive from where I live. I was visiting the Pace Museum, also founded by JP Kraemer, but more on that later. After my museum visit, I decided to check out the Big Boost Burger restaurant, situated just across from the headquarters. And there it was, the BMW M3 Touring, demanding attention.

Perhaps the most extraordinary feature isn’t even the mint green exterior but rather the entirely purple interior. This bespoke upholstery job was executed by Zettl, a company renowned for its expertise in re-upholstering car interiors to such a high standard that major automakers seek them out for custom interiors.

The Birth of a Legend – BMW M3 EVO

Developed directly from the crucible of motorsport, the BMW M3 was a groundbreaking marvel. When it made its debut at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in 1985, it didn’t just turn heads; it set the automotive world alight. This was more than just a car; it was the genesis of an icon in the BMW M lineup, a machine destined to dominate both the streets and the racetrack.

The vision behind the original BMW M3 was deceptively simple yet profoundly ambitious: to create a racing sedan that was equally at home on public roads. What nobody could predict was just how phenomenally successful the M3 would become. It was a game-changer, blending everyday usability with the ferocious spirit of a track-bred thoroughbred.

BMW M3 Touring but make it CSL by Evolve

The most exciting new car in recent years has got to be the G81 BMW M3 Touring. A car that enthusiasts have been clamoring for finally became a reality in 2022 and has been a big hit for BMW ever since. If Instagram is to be believed, they’re flying off the shelves like hotcakes. One of the customers who got their hands on it last year was Evolve Automotive from England.

Now, as is customary with Evolve, they’re not leaving anything stock. Their plan is to turn it into a BMW M3 Touring CSL version. It’s not just about looks; they’re incorporating genuine CSL components. You can follow the build on Evolve’s own YouTube channel.