Modified BMW M3 E36 Convertible in Laguna Seca Blue

Our today’s feature is dedicated to one of the most iconic BMW models of the ’90s – the E36 3-Series that’s been produced since 1992 till 1997. This particular example is the top of the line M3 version of the model equipped with the s52 Performance Engine capable of producing around 300 horses.

Unlike many E36s the original design of this car was not ruined with questionable aftermarket add-ons or crazy overfenders. The owner of this gorgeous blue convertible decided to preserve the original styling of the car and enhance it with a couple of subtle OEM+ touches.

The Build

One of the first things you notice in the car is certainly the magical deep blue color. The original silver metallic was a bit too boring for such an iconic car, so the owner decided to add a bit of color to make it stand out. His choice fell on nothing else than the BMW fan’s favorite Laguna Seca Blue which played a serious role in the brand’s motorsports heritage.

Color

Laguna Seca Blue is a striking and highly coveted color option that BMW first introduced on their E46 M3 model in 2000 (so it wasn’t available for the E36 originally). It was named after the iconic Laguna Seca Raceway in California, a fitting homage given the sporting heritage of the M3 line.

The color itself is significant for a few reasons. It represents a departure from the more traditional, understated color options typically associated with BMW of the 90s. Plus, it adds a certain degree of exclusivity, making cars in this color highly desirable among BMW fans.

Stance

Second thing that catches the eye is definitely the vehicle low groundhugging stance. Looking at how close it sits to the ground and how minimal the ground clearance is, it’s safe to assume that the car is fitted with air suspension, but to everyone’s surprise, it’s not the case with this build.

Instead the owner decided to install a set of radically low coilovers by Broadway Suspensions. They obviously bring certain limitations to daily driving but Preserve the adjustability and durability so much needed for a car that gets some track use.

Elegant 17×9 deep dish two-piece Heritage Sakura wheels with the unique Japanese cherry blossom design add that tuner flavor and give a hint that this M3 convertible is lady driven. Being wrapped in stretched 205/40/17 performance tires the wheels perfectly fit into the arches providing an impressively refined fitment.

The performance of the stock 6 cylinder motor was enhanced by the installation of the M50 manifold. Factory intakes and exhausts were ditched in favor of the more potent Dinan cold air intake and a deep sounding AC Schnitzer exhaust which unleashes the sporty character of this M3 stance build.

Specs & Mods

Exterior

• Repainted in Laguna Seca blue color (Originally the car was silver)
• Custom tail lights with clear lenses
• Refreshed headlight optics

Interior

• Reupholstered BMW Vader bucket seats

Wheels

• Heritage Sakura Wheels 17×9
• Tires 205/40/17

Suspension

• Broadway suspension (super low coilovers)

Performance

• M50 manifold
• AC Schnitzer exhaust
• Dinan cold air intake

Conclusion

This E36 M3 is a perfect example of “less is more” – taking an already awesome car and making it better while staying true to the BMW DNA. The Laguna Seca Blue paint job and those cherry blossom wheels completely transform the car’s personality, while keeping what made the M3 special in the first place.

Photography 📸 @bryans.lens

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