Alex Tran - 1995 BMW M3

The E36 M3 was ahead of its time, with perfect balance and style. But for Alex Tran, it wasn’t enough. He opted to trade perfect 1990s OEM balance for an S54 engine transplant to really set his car apart. A shaved and tucked engine bay shows off the hard work in a beautiful way. The S54 itself was kept relatively simple to maximize reliability and driving time, with further emphasis placed on presentation and supporting mods. A final 330-wheel horsepower number is plenty for this timeless classic.

Tran’s “less is more” approach to exterior styling goes a long way to preserve the aura of the E36 M3 with a nice, modified touch. The interior is intentionally motorsports-inspired. Many have modified the E36 M3 over the years, but few have done it as tastefully as Alex Tran. His efforts and vision earned him the Driver’s Choice award from Dylan Hughes at Tuning365 Seattle in 2024.

Location: Everett, WA

Horsepower: 330 whp
Club: Team Overtake

SOCIAL:
IG: @ruthless.spec

ENGINE:

S54 engine swap

CSL carbon intake

Euro catless header

Radium (fuel rail, fuel gauge)

Shaved and tucked engine bay

EXHAUST:

Eisenmann Race muffler

WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES:

BBS LM wheels

Porsche 996 Brembo brakes

CHASSIS / SUSPENSION:

BC Coilovers

Complete poly suspension bushings

TMS front and rear sway bars

OMP front strut bar

EXTERIOR:

Reiger GT front lip

Fancywide V2 diffuser

LTW GT wing

Gurney flap

OEM Bosch headlights

INTERIOR:

Recaro pole position seats

Half roll cage

RTD chassis mounted shifter

Takata ASM harnesses

Full BBS LM spare wheel

Carbon LTW style interior trim

AEM gauges 

Ecliptech P2 shift light

AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS:

CarPlay head unit

 SPONSORS:

BC Coilovers
Karbonius
Golden Wrench Supply

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