- The E9x chassis code refers to the BMW M3s made in the two-door coupe (E92), two-door hardtop convertible (E93), and four-door sedan (E90).
- Factory equipped with BMW’s naturally aspirated S65 4.0-liter V8 engine, the E92 generates 414hp and 295 lb-ft of torque from the factory.
- Akrapovič is a Slovenian automotive and motorcycle exhaust system manufacturer specializing in premium titanium and carbon fiber material construction.
I remember a time not long ago when people in the BMW community scoffed at the idea of a V8 engine in an M3. I remember when two Schnitzer Motorsport M3 GTRs raced in the American Le Man Series — equipped with V8 engine swaps — before other teams lobbied against their legality. To legalize using a V8 M3 in GT racing, BMW churned out ten road-going E46 examples named the M3 GTR Straßenversion, all equipped with a V8 engine direct from the factory. With regulations remedied, smaller teams entered the cars into famous races like the 24 Hours Nürburgring, where they finished 1-2. The proof was in the pudding. With those cars essentially serving as a test mule for what’s to come, BMW’s next M3 chassis, the E9x, upped propulsion from an inline-six into the proven magic of eight cylinders — in the process, birthing one of the most delightfully sounding engines (the S65) and a seriously competent GT car.
With that said, where the constraints of mass production hinder a car’s performance, the automotive aftermarket swoops in to take vehicles to the next level. Such is the case for our newest project car, this E92 BMW M3. Admittedly, a stout performer straight out of the box, with the help of our local installation aficionados at R/T Tuning in Montgomeryville, PA, we’ll be applying some tweaks that can enhance its performance and help it reach a higher potential while remaining completely streetable.
ABOUT THE CAR
Recently purchased by our Publisher, Daryl Sampson, you’re looking at a 2013 BMW M3 Competition (LCI) with a dual-clutch transmission, carbon fiber roof, and finished in Jerez Black (pronounced hr-eth). Purchased from an unsuspecting dealership in Columbus, OH, earlier this year, it was taken almost immediately to AUTOcouture Motoring in New Jersey for the oh-so-important rod bearings and throttle actuator replacement. From there, it was driven with care and broken in properly before being assigned to the bays of R/T Tuning in Montgomeryville, PA, for various improvements. We were so keen to get started that we didn’t even wash it, but don’t worry; it’ll get cleaned up soon.
THE BUILD INSPO
Over the past few years, social media has been set ablaze with the potent vehicles of Team Schirmer in Germany and its many exploits around the Nürburging’s famous Nordschleife layout. With the company’s specialty in building track-capable Porsche and BMW GT cars, the potential for inspiration seems endless. Something about the way they modify their cars must have triggered our Publisher’s need for a BMW GT car, and the newest project was born. While the outright Nür-spec Schirmer cars created the inspiration, the reality is that this particular E92 won’t be attacking the famous Karussel or jumping any crests. Instead, it will spend its time navigating Pennsylvania public roads and be modified to tackle them enjoyably while looking the part of a bonafide track-inspired street car.
AKRAPOVIČ EVOLUTION LINE TITANIUM EXHAUST
Starting off with the tantalizing Akrapovič (pronounced ah-krahp-oh-vitch) titanium exhaust should really set the tone for this build. Get it? Set the tone. The positives of saving your shekels for the Akrapovič Evolution Line (Titanium) exhaust far outweigh the cons. First, the dual-outlet mufflers with carbon fiber tips, flow-optimized link pipes, X-pipe, and high-flow 100 cpsi catalytic converters and resonators that form the kit are engineered to generate an aggressive sound all while emanating pure class. Constructed of a proprietary titanium alloy in Slovenia, it drops 52.7 pounds from the vehicle’s overall weight, improves weight distribution, and adds 22 horsepower and 25.6 lb-ft of torque to the engine. The fancy packaging and wrapping are quite the experience to unbox, too.
THE FIRST INSTALL
Like an infant saying its first words, it’s always a proud day making the first modifications on the car (even though this car had the bearings and actuators maintenance performed already). Pat at R/T Tuning pulled the E92 into the bay and raised it on a lift. Unbolting the factory exhaust unit and removing it proved as straightforward as it sounds. He hoisted each new titanium piece into its new home under the vehicle and seamlessly assembled the components. Since the new system uses a combination of precision measured tubing, slip-fit joints, two-bolt flanges, and new exhaust hangers, Pat completed the installation process without any hiccups.
The final piece of the puzzle was the carbon fiber exhaust tips. With each of the four fastened in place on their respective exhaust outlets, the installation was complete, and the car was ready for its maiden voyage expelling its enhanced growl upon startup. We’ll have more on this project soon! Follow along here and on our Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channels to avoid missing a second of this unique build.
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