Since its launch three years ago, the latest generation BMW M3 has fallen into the hands of most tuners out there. Some have kept it simple by fitting it with new components that elevate its visual presence, whereas others have gone wild on it.
Part of the latter category is a lesser-known company called DarwinPRO Aerodynamics. The tuner is behind some very controversial projects we've seen these past few months, and the G80 (Sedan) generation BMW M3 has now joined that list.
Mind you, it could've been worse, but it could also have been better. That said, let's delve into the things that set this sports sedan apart from the stock variants. And there are quite a few of them, so stick around to find out what these are.
In its mind, this M3 probably thinks it sends CS vibes, but it doesn't. It features a widebody makeover, some whiskers in the front bumper, a new apron with side blades, and an aftermarket hood. The front fender trim is new, and so are the side skirt attachments and, from what we can see, the mirror casings, too.
Photo: Instagram | darwinproaero
It sports more controversial bits and pieces at the rear, where the bumper has become more aggressive and has a new diffuser attached to it. The latter incorporates an extra brake light in the middle and has cutouts for the quad tailpipes. The ducktail spoiler was replaced by a big wing that sits on the trunk lid, decorated with the company's logo, which can also be seen on other components.
Spinning around the M-branded yellow brake calipers that hug the cross-drilled discs every time the driver steps on the brakes, the wheels are new. The center caps reveal that they came from BBS, and they feature a Y-spoke pattern and a silver finish wrapped in Michelin rubber. The entire car has a satin purple look, which is probably a wrap, and the add-ons were made of carbon fiber.
Visible through the non-tinted windows, the interior mixes orange and black with the usual carbon trim and M logos. There is no word about any possible mechanical enhancements, which probably means that this BMW M3 soldiers on with the original firepower, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six.
In the most basic configuration, it produces 473 hp (480 ps/353 kW), enabling the 0-60 mph (0 to 97 kph) in 4.1 seconds. The Competition version lifts the output to 503 hp (510 ps/375 kW) and drops the sprint time to 3.8 seconds. Ordering the xDrive, which is Bimmer slang for all-wheel drive, variant will get you the same power as the Competition and quicker acceleration that takes only 3.4 seconds. This one has an MSRP of $84,300 stateside, whereas the Competition and normal M3 will set you back at least $80,200 and $76,000, respectively.
After a series of unfortunate events put an end to Cristian's dream of entering a custom built & tuned old-school Dacia into a rally competition, he moved on to drive press cars and write for a living. He's worked for several automotive online journals and now he's back at autoevolution after his first tour in the mid-2000s. Full profile
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