Nowadays, with the wide variety of car types available, people have more choices than ever. For example，
Some business executives seek a quiet and comfortable driving environment, often opting for S-Class models.
Adventure enthusiasts and off-road lovers might gravitate toward vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler.
But what about young, vibrant individuals full of energy? What cars do they gravitate toward?
Of course, every car enthusiast has their own interpretation and understanding of their ideal “Dream Car.” Yet, almost unanimously, they crave something distinct—sportiness and performance. And when it comes to that, how can one overlook the BMW 3 Series?
Modified BMW F30 3 Series
Why are people so passionate about modifying the BMW 3 Series?
For car enthusiasts, the BMW M Series holds a unique allure—not just because of the iconic “M” badge, but due to the exhilarating performance DNA that courses through every aspect of the vehicle. It’s the kind of car that ignites your adrenaline the moment you press the accelerator.
However, today’s spotlight isn’t on the pulse-pounding BMW M3, but rather on its slightly more understated sibling, the F30 3 Series.
In 2012, BMW officially unveiled the sixth generation of the 3 Series, the F30. Compared to its predecessor, the E90, the F30 exudes a more youthful, aggressive, and dynamic presence. This redesign was undoubtedly a triumph, as evidenced by the F30’s massive market presence today.
Thanks to the special relationship between the 3 Series and the M3, each generation of the 3 Series becomes a canvas for enthusiasts who refuse to be confined by convention and revel in the joy of car modification. The F30 is no exception, often transformed to emulate the M3’s spirit. Let’s dive into the world of F30 modifications.
BMW F30 to M3 Conversion
Numerous aftermarket body kit manufacturers have developed M3-style upgrade packages specifically for the BMW 3 Series. These include front and rear bumpers, side skirts, front fenders, hoods, and various accessories. Even intricate details like side mirrors are not overlooked, offering a complete transformation for the F30.
Exterior Modifications: BMW PP Body Kit for a Cohesive M3 Appearance
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Front Lip and Front Bumper: M3-style front lip and bumper for an aggressive M3 look.
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Grille: Three-color M stripes with carbon fiber accents around the double-kidney grille.
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Hood: Carbon fiber hood with air vents for improved engine bay cooling.
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Side Mirrors: Carbon fiber mirror caps for a sleek, sporty appearance.
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Front Fenders and Side Skirts: Modified to achieve a trendy widebody effect.
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Rear Bumper: M3-style rear bumper.
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Exhaust: Dual-quad exhaust system for a bold rear aesthetic.
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Roof: Carbon fiber roof for added style and weight reduction.
Once the front lip and front bumper from the modification kit are installed, the F30 instantly exudes the aggressive aura of an M3.
Carbon fiber mirror caps complete the look, adding a sleek and sporty detail to the overall package.
The iconic three-color M stripes on the grille, a hallmark of BMW’s M division, are complemented by carbon fiber accents surrounding the signature double-kidney grille, adding a touch of sophistication.
The bmw hood is crafted from carbon fiber, featuring air vents that not only enhance the aesthetic but also play a crucial role in regulating engine bay temperatures. These vents significantly aid in heat dissipation, ensuring optimal performance.
The upgraded front fenders and side skirts transform the F30, aligning it with the popular widebody aesthetic that’s currently in vogue.
It’s worth noting that the genuine M3’s rear fenders are wider than those of the standard 3 Series, by approximately 1 inch (25.4mm) on each side. This is why most aftermarket kits don’t include rear fenders.
Of course, you could opt to purchase OEM M3 rear fenders, but sourcing used ones is a hassle, and even if you find them, the price is often exorbitant—sometimes close to the cost of an entire M3-style body kit.
If you’re handy and up for a challenge, you can DIY the widebody rear fenders. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Start by purchasing an M3 rear bumper and a sheet of metal.
- Cut off the original rear fenders and use the metal sheet to fabricate widened fenders, welding them onto the original fender locations.
- Use the M3 rear bumper as a reference to determine the correct widened dimensions. Complete both rear fenders, ensuring perfect alignment and fit.
- Apply body filler (putty) and paint for a seamless finish.
Seductive Rear-End Modification Design
A perfectly fitted rear bumper enhances the sleek look of the F30.
The striking dual-quad exhaust system at the rear adds a bold, aggressive touch to the modified tail.
Note: Since the M3’s rear fenders are wider than those of the 3 Series, the M3’s rear bumper is also slightly wider. Most aftermarket M3-style body kits are molded based on the 3 Series’ mounting points, meaning the modified rear bumper will be narrower than the M3’s OEM bumper. To achieve the full M3 appearance, you’d need to source an original M3 rear bumper. Fortunately, used M3 rear bumpers are relatively easy to find and are reasonably priced. However, whether opting for the OEM M3 rear bumper is necessary for the look is a matter of personal preference—beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Overall Effect Rivals the M3
If the aforementioned modification parts—such as body kits and exhausts—represent the “hardware” for performance enhancement, then the addition of “software” like the Racechip piggyback ECU and SIMOTA air intake system takes the F30’s transformation to a more direct and impactful level.
To the untrained eye, this “M3” would raise no suspicions at first glance. Its convincing appearance could easily fool anyone into believing it’s the real deal. From subtle details like the iconic three-color M stripes on the grille to bold statements like the quad-exit exhaust at the rear, everything about this car screams that it’s no ordinary F30 3 Series.
Upon closer inspection, the carbon fiber front and rear lips, mirror caps, combined with the M3-style PP body kit, further cement the impression that this is an M3. Yet, in reality, it’s still just a masterfully modified F30.
