BMW E46 M3 receives a 5.0-liter V10 S85 engine producing over 500 horsepower
One thing I have really liked about BMWs is for the most part, how compatible parts are across the different lines of vehicles. Many newer parts fit on the older cars, making them better. This has a secondary effect of creating a large number of enthusiasts because over time, parts prices drop as more cars are taken off the road.
For example, the BMW S54 engine that powered the BMW E46 M3 is starting to make its way into BMW e28, e30, e34, and e36 projects. I know of at least two S54 swaps that are going into BMW e28s.
BMW E46 M3
The BMW M3 E46 may be approaching 20 years in age but it is considered by some to be the German auto manufacturers best vehicles. Combining the best from BMW’s M-division into a chassis optimized for performance, the result is a vehicle that thrills. Then, you have this beast.
While on the outside, this 2004 E46 M3 looks like any other. However, underneath the hood lies one of the heart of a beast. The result is an amazing handling vehicle with monster-like performance. In other words, something that is much better than what it left the factory with.
The heart of this particular E46 M3 is the S85 V10 engine from the BMW E60 M5. This 5.0-liter V10 normally aspirated engine puts out 507 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque in stock form. In a car such as the BMW E46 M3, I would imagine performance is greater than in its native environment, the BMW M5 / M6 since the vehicle is lighter.
The transmission in this vehicle is from a BMW E92 V8 M3. Such an upgrade was needed to accommodate the additional power from the new engine.
The seller did the swap himself and looking at it, it looks quite impressive. Very clean, like a swap that was done at the factory.
If you are in the market for such a beast, you are in luck. This particular car is offered for sale on EBay. He is selling it because he has a desire for another BMW E30 M3.
Here is a video of a BMW e46 M3 with a 5.0-liter S85 V10 engine producing 560 horsepower.