We've seen out fair share of E36 engine swaps over they years, but we have to admit the US-flavored one we've just come across is one of the most unconventional.
This Bavarian machine is now powered by a Chevy Small Block heart. And things don't end with the 355ci V8 that occupies the E36 Coupe's engine compartment.
The 5.8 liters of engine breathe with the help of a massive supercharger. The blower currently delivers around 8 lbs of boost. The sheer soundtrack of this car is enough to raise eyebrows. And given its loud voice, this happens on quite a large radius.
The engine works with a Turbo 400 automatic tranny, but the owner hasn't managed to raise enough funds to replace the rear end. He does plan to ditch the BMW hardware and replace it with a Ford 9-inch rear end.
The man explains he's had the car dynoed, but the results are surprising. While the power at the wheels sits at a rather modest 400 hp, this thing is a torque monster. The guy claims the Bimmer now has around 780 lb-ft (1,057 Nm) of twist.
As for the quarter mile game, this 3-Series can deliver 11s passes. Which brings us to the footage below.
The Chevy-powered BMW was obviously spotted at the drag strip, where it eventually did its thing. The E36 raced various machines, but a battle with a Nissan GT-R was the one that drew our attention.
We are talking about a Godzilla example pushed all the way up to 1,100 hp. The GT-R didn't use launch control, but this was one odd race, as you'll be able to see below.
PS: yes, we decided to skip the part where we described the way in which the car's exterior was customized. That's because we don't enjoy riced BMWs.
In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News