Five of the Best BMW Restomods

Restomods have become increasingly popular over the last decade or so. The trend takes advantage of advancements that allow older cars to be restored and modded with modern materials and processes. As a result older cars receive a fresh new lease of life. The rise of this phenomenon has also underlined the popularity of classic motoring in the face of new cars that seem to have less and less character. Here are five of the best BMW restomods, showcasing exceptional engineering and design.

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1. BMW M3 by Redux

Redux Leichtbau has created what many consider the ultimate E30 M3 restomod, reimagining the iconic E30 M3 as if BMW had built a homologation-special CSL version. The car features a re-engineered naturally aspirated 2,5-litre S14 four-cylinder engine producing 224 kW and 280 N.m of torque, an increase over the original Sport Evolution’s 174 kW and 252 N.m. The engine is paired with a close-ratio five-speed dog-leg Getrag manual gearbox and a limited-slip differential.

Redux extensively lightens the car by replacing most body panels with carbon-fibre, reducing weight to about 1 150 kg. The suspension is custom, and 18-inch wheels inspired by period DTM racecars are fitted with upgraded AP Racing brakes. The interior and engine bay feature bespoke billet aluminum trim. Redux plans to build only 30 of these cars.

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2. V10-Powered Widebody BMW 858 CSL

The BMW 858 CSL restomod is a radical reinterpretation of the classic 8 Series coupe. It has been transformed from GT car into a widebody track-focused machine. It features V10 engine sourced from the E60 BMW M5. The engine delivers around 375 kW and 520 N.m as standard. However this car’s engine has been extensively modified to develop 470 kW. The widebody kit enhances aerodynamics and allows for wider tires, improving grip and handling. This restomod blends the classic lines of the 8 Series with modern powertrain and suspension technology, creating a unique blend of classic style and contemporary performance.

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3. Robert Downey Jr’s 1974 BMW 3.0 CS

Actor Robert Downey, Jr relaunched his acting career as Iron Man, where is drove several Audis. But his personal ride is a 1974 BMW 3.0 CS. The coupe was restomodded by American tuner SpeedKore, an outfit that is better known for its muscle car creations. The original 3.0 CS body is fully restored with carbon-fibre accents.

In addition the original engine is replaced by an inline-six from the E34 BMW M5. This naturally aspirated engine produces over 230 kW in stock form. Interestingly, Downey, Jr opted for a period correct, rather than performance oriented, four-speed automatic transmission. As a result of the CS’s new engine this restomod has significantly better performance while maintaining the classic coupe’s elegant appearance.

4. Manhart BMW M3

Manhart Performance is renowned for its aggressive tuning, usually offered on BMW products. Most of its handiwork is applied to newer models. But the company has also started to take advantage of the restomod phenomenon. The company has worked its magic on a classic BMW 8 Series which as a 5,0-litre V8 and a Lancia Delta Integrale.

Manhart upgrades the E30 M3 with six-cylinder turbocharged engines producing upwards of 300 kW, paired with upgraded suspension, brakes, and alloy wheels. These restomods focus on maximizing track performance while keeping the M3’s iconic styling cues such as the flared fenders and boot spoiler. Manhart’s attention to detail and engineering prowess make their M3 restomods some of the most exciting on the road.

5. Smit Vehicle Engineering Oletha BMW Z4

Smit Vehicle Engineering’s Oletha project is a restomod based on the BMW Z4. It is the Z8 coupe that, for reasons unknown, BMW did not produce. The Oletha is an homage to a legendary sports car from BMW’s past, the beautiful 507. Willem and Kaess Smit’s bespoke creation blends classic charm with modern enhancements. The Oletha features a comprehensive rebuild with upgraded suspension and brakes.

More interesting is that the engineering firm offers buyers the option of two powertrains. The first is an inline-six, as found in an E46 M3. Donor engines are enlarged to 3,4 litres to help produce 300 kW. The brawnier option is an S65 BMW 4,0-litre V8 from the E92 generation M3. Again, it displaces more than standard at 4,4 litres. As a result it develops 335 kW. A six-speed manual transmission sends power to the rear axle, regardless of which engine you choose. Only 100 will be built.