Finnish E36/5 Compact is a 300 kW V12 powered RWD super hatchback

December 25, 2021

Almost 16 years ago, a seemingly mad Finn had the gumption to squeeze one of BMW’s largest motors into one of its smallest vehicles. The Bavarian Frankenstein that emerged was an E36/5 316 Compact with an E31 850 CSi’s 5,6-litre V12 motor shoehorned into the engine bay.

Wide stance and full M bodykit suggest that this isn’t an ordinary 3 Series Compact…

With power marginally increased to 300 kW and a few other tasteful modifications here and there, the Titanium Silver hatchback garnered much attention by all who encountered it upon its many journeys across Finland.

Suspiciously fat tailpipes are linked to something somewhat more substantial than the Compact’s original 4 pot.

In addition to BMW Motorsport’s S70/B56 V12 mill upfront, the Ti benefits visually from wide wheel arches at the rear, as well as a full exterior M-package. The front and rear suspension was sourced from the E36 M3 and E36/7 M Roadster. The dashboard comes a la M3, too along with the wiring etc so as to benefit from contemporary “equipment” such as the M3’s digital climate control.

‘Vader’ seats named as such because, well, they look a bit like the Sith Lord himself, with some ///M facepaint.

The E36 M3’s famous “Vader” seats feature, too, with the rear seats and door cards being trimmed in matching black leather to finish off the look.

E36 M3 dashboard looks the parts, as does a smattering of Hartge goodies, like the gearknob knob.

This remarkable vehicle’s creator and current owner is now selling it, however he is adamant that it must go to the right person, someone who will appreciate the unique V12, RWD hatchback for what it is. It presents in good condition with 106 000 km for 299 000 kr (R510 000).