Manhart’s MH3 3.5 Turbo is a BMW E30 M3 with a Beefy Six-Cylinder

There’s a fine line between improving and ruining an automotive icon, but Manhart seems to have found the sweet spot with its rendition of the iconic E30 M3 dubbed the MH3 3.5 Turbo.

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MH3

Image: Manhart

Needing no introduction, the E30 M3 is one of the most renowned monikers in the Bavarian firm’s history. At the core of the venerated coupe was the revered 2,3-litre (in the Evo1 and Evo2 generation) four-cylinder bearing the S14 designation. For their rendition of the E30 M3, Manhart has done away with the beloved S14 four-pot in exchange for a turbocharged 3,7-litre straight six sourced from an Alpina B7S Turbo. Supporting components include a Manhart monotube coilover suspension system developed by H&R and a Brembo brake kit customised by the aftermarket tuner.

MH3

Image: Manhart

After some Manhart alterations to the turbochargers and intercooler, the six-cylinder beating heart produces 302 kW and 650 N.m! To put this increase into perspective, that’s more than double the output of the 2,3-litre S14 powerplant. Affixed to the Alpina straight-six is a five-speed manual transmission. Further down the drivetrain is a Drexler differential that offers a 25% lock and is accompanied by an additional cooler. A set of twin-exit exhausts reports the efforts of the power plant.

Related: 2024 BMW X1 M35i debuts with firm’s most powerful four-cylinder

The E30 M3 has arguably one of the best physiques of BMW’s 80s and 90’s lineup. Thankfully, Manhart hasn’t tried to reinvent the look of the M3 but has instead accentuated its already sultry frame. At the front, affixed to the front lip is a carbon front splitter. A rear spoiler with carbon wings characterises the rear to emulate the “Sport Evolution” offshoot. The car is outfitted with 19-inch double-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in 215/35 R19 (front) and 245/30 R19 (rear).

MH3

Image: Manhart

The interior is left somewhat unchanged. Complementing the original leather interior are elements such as a Momo steering wheel, a wooden gear knob with the Manhart logo engraved on it and a digital display with the engine’s vital signs.

Related: Next M3 and M4 Likely Arriving as Pure Electric BMWs

Finished in Matt green and bearing the codename, MH3 3,5 Turbo, has Manhart elevated the E30 M3’s desirability, or have they ruined a classic?

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The post Manhart’s MH3 3.5 Turbo is a BMW E30 M3 with a Beefy Six-Cylinder appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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