The fusion of classic styling with modern performance is a dream for many car enthusiasts. This ambitious project, a Bmw S55 Engine Swap into an E30 M3, epitomizes that dream, showcasing the ingenuity and dedication of a team of six students who transformed a legendary chassis into a modern marvel. This build, featured at SEMA 2018, seamlessly integrates the potent heart of an F80 M3 into the iconic E30, resulting in a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and exhilarating power.
Conquering the Challenge: S55 Engine Swap into an E30 M3
Swapping the original S14 engine from an E30 M3 is often met with resistance from purists. However, the performance gains offered by the S55 engine are undeniable. This team not only successfully transplanted the S55, but also integrated the entire F80 instrument cluster into the E30 dashboard—a feat never before accomplished. This involved overcoming significant wiring and compatibility challenges, demonstrating the team’s exceptional skill and commitment. The project went beyond a simple engine swap; it was a complete transformation.
Taming the Beast: Cooling Solutions for the S55 Swap
Fitting the larger S55 engine into the compact E30 engine bay presented significant space constraints, particularly for the cooling system. To address this, the team opted for the CSF Race High-Performance Charge Cooler, a proven solution for high-performance S55 builds. The twin-turbocharged nature of the S55, combined with the reduced space, demanded a robust cooling system to prevent overheating and maintain optimal performance.
CSF Cooling: Keeping the S55 Cool Under Pressure
The CSF Top Mount Dual-Pass Charge-Air Cooler (CSF #8082) provides a 60% larger core compared to the stock unit, ensuring efficient heat dissipation. Its dual-pass cross-flow design maximizes cooling efficiency by extending the coolant’s contact time with the intake air. This is crucial for maintaining low intake air temperatures and preventing performance loss due to heat soak.
Furthermore, the team installed the CSF Front Mount Heat Exchanger (CSF #8075), featuring a 2-row core with B-Tube technology for superior cooling capacity compared to the OEM single-row unit. This comprehensive cooling setup ensures the S55 engine operates reliably and efficiently even under demanding conditions.
Blending Old and New: A Restored Classic with Modern Power
Beyond the engine swap, the E30 M3 received a full restoration, with meticulous attention to detail. The exterior boasts a fresh coat of Alpine White paint, complemented by a pristine red Nappa leather interior. A period-correct Nakamichi tape deck adds a nostalgic touch to the flawlessly restored dashboard.
This build seamlessly blends the classic E30 M3 aesthetic with the raw power of the S55 engine, creating a truly unique driving experience. The attention to detail, both in the mechanical aspects and the restoration of the car’s original charm, is evident throughout.
